September 15 to October 15 is National Hispanic American Heritage Month. This celebration honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans and all those who have heritage rooted in all Latin American countries. During this month and throughout the year, several federal agencies schedule events and encourage all Americans to share history, heritage, and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino Americans of past and present.
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 September 18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30-day period.
In Connecticut, these are some of the activities taking place during this month:
- 9/14 – Hispanic Heritage Month Social – Barcelona Wine Bar 515 West Ave Suite A Norwalk – Join the SHPE CT Professionals chapter for an evening of networking & community engagement
- 9/18 – National Hispanic Heritage Paint night – Faith Art Studio LLC, 214 Main Street, East Haven
- 9/23 – H.O.L.A Presents: Taste of Salsa on the Green – Meriden Green 77 State St Meriden
- 10/14 – HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH CLOSING CELEBRATION – Mattatuck Museum 144 W Main St Waterbury – Music from Orquesta Afinke, a Latin-fusion band, in the Museum’s Performing Arts Center and an exhibition of artwork from the Museum’s collection by Latinx artists in the Community Gallery
- 10/21 – Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration Day – 2790 Fairfield Ave, 2790 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport – Business EXpo; Food sampling, Networking, Music and dancing (Folkloric)