National Hispanic and Latino/a/x Heritage Month
Mexican folk dance performance with traditional white dress

Photo by Fred Herter Jr. from Ralph Frinzler Folklife Archives and Collections, Smithsonian Institute

It is National Hispanic and Latino/a/x Heritage Month and we want your help in spreading awareness and celebrating this time. Here is a bit about the month: Each year, the U.S. observes National Hispanic and Latino/a/x Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th, by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino/a/x peoples from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day, month long, period. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.  

September 15th is also Independence Day for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico celebrates their Independence Day on September 16th, Chile on September 18th, and Belize on September 21st.  

Below, we have provided you with links to resources for staff, students, and families:

Resources

Cultural Observances