Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the independence of many Latin-American countries, such as Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It is a month to acknowledge Hispanic culture, history, and Americans whose ancestors impacted the victory of independence. 

Usually, celebrated months start at the beginning of the month and conclude at the end. On the other hand, Hispanic Heritage Month starts on the 15th of September and ends on the 15th of October. This is because September 15th was the date their independence was gained. The Hispanic Heritage celebrations did not always last a month though. The revelries started in 1968, but it only lasted a week. Luckily, they were honored more in 1988 and on August 17th, they were granted a month. The first theme is “Todos Somos, Somos Uno: We Are All, We Are One.”

This year, the theme was announced to be “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America.” This theme is used to recognize Hispanic contributions within our community, politics, and livelihood, or to appreciate our role models. It is also used to show respect to ancestors who worked hard for their victory and justice. Olympic Heights Sophomore and member of the Hispanic Student Union, Auryanna Flores explains the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month to her and her family: “It means that it not only for my family that’s gone through stuff, but for Hispanics in general. For us, it means more than a holiday. More like respecting what happened and realizing that being Hispanic isn’t just something you are, it’s an honor.”

There are many ways to celebrate this beautiful month, such as showing love and support to Hispanic influencers, further educating yourself on Hispanic culture or history, taking a Spanish class, taking Spanish dance classes, tasting delicious Hispanic food, or even just listening to Latin music.

There are multiple local festivities as well. For example, The Wicks (Boca Raton) is holding the performance of “Viva La Vida,” which stars “America’s Got Talent” star Daniella Mass. It is a beautiful musical performance highlighting Hispanic culture. Furthermore, Arts Garage (Delray Beach) is playing Latin music on their stage. It gives our community an opportunity to connect and dance with cultural music. One could also simply visit local Latin cuisines such as Mi Casita, Calaveras Cantina, and Las Fajitas.

Here at Olympic Heights, there are multiple celebrations taking place to highlight Hispanic culture. For example, Hispanic Heritage Month spirit week consists of dress-up days such as wearing your favorite Hispanic role model, wearing your flag as a cape, and wearing an accessory to represent your country. In addition, there were contests, for instance, poster-making, a fun-fact contest, and a door-decorating contest. All of these activities are used to show the colorful, cultural aspects of Latino traditions.

 Additionally, you can donate to many Hispanic organizations, such as the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, which is used to honor the accomplishments of young Latinos, The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) which furthers education for Hispanic students, and The National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA), which helps to better health within Hispanic communities.

This month is special to honor the long fights of the Latin countries to gain their rightful independence. So this month, show a little more love for the Hispanic culture and educate yourself further.

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