The time period from September 15 through October 15 is designated as National Hispanic Heritage Month. This observation serves as a time to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America, according to hispanicheritagemonth.gov. Apex Leadership Co. shares a little history about this time period and how teachers, parents and teachers can honor it.
Hispanicheritagemonth.gov states that National Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 (as Hispanic Heritage Week) when President Lyndon Johnson was in office. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded the observance to span a 30-day period from September 15 to October 15. It became a law on August 17 of that year.
September 15 was chosen as the beginning of this observance 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.” Columbus Day (or Dia de la Raza) also falls within the observation period on October 12.
There are many ways that communities, families and schools choose to recognize this national observance. In addition to teachers’ resources on hispanicheritagemonth.gov, teachers can incorporate other lessons including teaching students about the many significant achievements and contributions of Hispanic Americans as well as those who have inspired others to create their own success stories.
Classrooms may consider hosting a Hispanic Heritage celebration in their classroom with themed lessons, activities and a meal or treats that honor the Hispanic cultures. Is possible, a field trip to a Hispanic or Latinx museum or gallery could be inspiring for students while also sharing significant stories of the past. Teachers may also assign students to do a report on Hispanic Heritage to help them learn about the history, the culture, the food, type of dress, music and dance, and more from these countries. They may be surprised to learn what mainstream things have been inspired from these cultures.
At home, parents may make a traditional Hispanic or Latinx meal or play some music created by famous Hispanic artists. Supporting Hispanic or Latinx owned businesses throughout the observance (and all year round) is a great way to honor the month and also discover new local businesses in the area. Watching movies like “Encanto” or “Coco” can help introduce little ones to various cultures and their traditions in a very family friendly way.
Apex Leadership Co. invites teachers and parents to get creative when it comes to honoring and celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month. This observance can be a time or learning and introducing new cultures to students of all ages.
