The cultural legacy of Latin America is woven into the fabric of North American life. Whether it’s cuisine, music or dance, the influence of Hispanic people and groups is evident. The Hispanic population is one of the fastest growing in the United States and has greatly enriched North American society. There are many ways to celebrate and honor the rich heritage of Hispanic Americans, even beyond National Hispanic Heritage Month. Read books written by Hispanic authors, cook recipes from the Hispanic community, participate in a community service project that benefits the Hispanic population, learn to dance Latin American styles and more.
The Hispanic population in the United States numbers more than 62 million people, and has been one of the fastest-growing segments of the country’s population since 2010. Those with roots in Mexico, parts of the Caribbean, Central and South America are known as Latinos or Latinas. There is no single definition of what it means to be Hispanic, and people may choose to identify themselves as Hispanic or Latino depending on their background and personal preference. Others, such as those who have a mixed ancestry, may prefer to use the term of their primary culture (i.e., Mexican American or Colombian American).
Hispanic Heritage Month begins Sept. 15 and continues through Oct. 15. It coincides with the national independence days of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica and the Mexican holiday of Sept. 16. It also includes a celebration of the suffragette and labor rights activist, Maria Guadalupe Evangelista de Lopez, on Oct. 11.
People who have a connection to Latin America and the Caribbean have a wealth of traditions that are important to their identity, family and history. These are rooted in the values of family, community, work and faith.
It’s a time to cherish and continue to pass down these customs to younger generations, as well as to recognize the contributions that Hispanic and Latino people have made to the nation and the world.
Aside from the language, food, music and art, there are many other things that bind Hispanic people together. These include the importance of family, a deep love and appreciation for the outdoors, and the belief that the natural environment is sacred.
The NEH-funded documentary series, Latino Americans, offers a window into these customs and traditions through an exploration of the history of individuals from different backgrounds who have shared experiences. The series’ website includes a collection of lesson plans and videos that help teachers and students explore the many stories within the Latino experience. In addition, a new teacher’s guide brings together resources from the NEH-funded project Latino Educators, which offered professional development programs and created lesson plans for K-12 classrooms.