Hispanic Heritage Month is a 30-day period from September 15 to October 15. The purpose of it is to celebrate the different histories, cultures, and independence gained by people of Central American, South American, Caribbean, and Central African descent.

History and prolongation:

Hispanic Heritage Month first started as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under the direction of President Lyndon B. Johnson but was later expanded in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan into the current 30-day period known as Hispanic Heritage month

There were five countries to gain their independence from Spain on September 15, 1821, and those countries are Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. 

Although these five countries share an independence day there are many more countries that also celebrate during this month. Belize is another country in Central America that gained its independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981. Mexico gained independence from Spain on September 16, 1821. Chile also gained independence from Spain on September 18, 1810. 

Cuba gained independence from Spain on May 20, 1902, but their independence day was declared on October 10. Lastly, Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain on October 12, 1968.

Independence Days:

Costa Rica – September 15

El Salvador – September 15

Guatemala – September 15

Honduras – September 15

Nicaragua – September 15

Mexico – September 16

Chile – September 18

Belize – September 21

Cuba – October 10

Equatorial Guinea – October 12

Why is it important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

There was a multitude of people fighting for their independence in the past couple of hundred years. Let’s honor the hard work of our ancestors and make their endurance of suffering worth it. Hispanic Americans and Latin Americans fought as a unity for freedom and recognition many years ago so together we must continue the unity among us.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with these fun activities taking place locally:

Latino Heritage Festival – September 17

FIESTA Indianapolis – September 17

Indy Taco Fest – September 18

A Ver, the ILA Debut Show – September 17

LA KERMéS (Mexican Festival ) – September 18

“Viva” Hispanic Heritage Celebration – October 7