September 15th through October 15th is National Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15th through October 15th is National Hispanic Heritage Month, an annual tradition celebrating the many ways that Hispanic Americans have contributed to our American identity and history, and a wonderful opportunity to share the rich cultural mosaic that is unique to the Americas and Spain, and to learn about the vital roles Hispanic Americans play in our nation’s past, present and future.

Hispanic American Heritage Week began in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson, and was later expanded to Hispanic American Heritage Month in 1988. The span of time that defines the commemorative month encompasses the days of independence for Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Columbus Day or Dia De La Raza falls on October 12. The Month is marked by museum exhibits, festivals, and special events at the Smithsonian Institute, the Library of Congress, the U.S. National Archives, universities, National Parks, and many local locations.

The story of America, and of New York in particular, cannot be written without the contributions of Hispanic Americans. To learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month, please visit this website.