Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15-October 15

Since 1989, National Hispanic Heritage Month has been celebrated in the United States from September 15 until October 15. Issued as a presidential proclamation each year, this period of time includes such important Hispanic anniversaries as the independence days of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15, Mexico's Festival of Independence on September 16, and Columbus Day, or Day of the Race, around October 12.
The activities that take place during the month, particularly in cities with large Hispanic populations, focus on how Latinos have made the United States a richer and more interesting place to live. They include performances by Latino musical groups, lectures about Hispanic life, and special awards presentations to Latinos who have made significant achievements in business, education, or the arts. In Washington, D.C., Hispanic members of Congress and other political leaders sponsor an annual dinner at which awards are presented.

CONTACTS:
PBS Teacher Source
2100 Crystal Dr.
Arlington, VA 22202
703-739-5000; fax: 703-739-8495
www.pbs.org
Hispanic Heritage Awards Foundation
2600 Virginia Ave. N.W., Ste. 406
Washington, DC 20037
202-861-9797; fax: 202-861-9799
www.hispanicheritageawards.org

SOURCES:
LatinoLife-1995, p. 39

Celebration days: Sep 15 - Oct 15