Latin American Heritage Month
Each year, Americans observe Latin American Heritage (also known as Hispanic Heritage) Heritage Month from
September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and
contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain,
Mexico, the Caribbean and Central 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 period starting on September 15 and
ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the
approval of Public Law 100-402.
The day of September 15 is significant because it is
the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica,
El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and
Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and
September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which
is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.
To learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month, visit the Library of Congress's resource page, including information and exhibits from the National Gallery of Art, the National Archies, and the Smithsonian Institution.
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