The month of September marks the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and honor communities with roots in 20 Latin American countries and territories (Open external link) that make up 19% of the United States population. During this time, we can highlight the rich cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans through community events, learning opportunities, and activities shared by our partners nationwide.
The observance originally began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 with legislation sponsored by Mexican American U.S. Representative Edward R. Roybal and signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. Two decades later, it was expanded to a month with the passage of legislation by Congress and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan.
In the United States, there are more than 50 million people of Hispanic origin, representing over 200 different countries and speaking more than 100 languages. The country’s rich cultural diversity, vibrant celebrations, and deep sense of community are rooted in the traditions of these diverse groups.
Two of the most prominent elements in Hispanic culture are family and food. These are central to the way these families live and the way they interact with their larger community. Learn more about these core components of Hispanic culture, and how they come together to create a unique and cherished way of life.
Hispanic and Latino families are known for their vibrant celebrations, savory foods, and deep sense of community. These traditions are an important part of the fabric of our nation, and Hispanic Heritage Month is a great opportunity to learn more about them.
The National Park Service is highlighting the stories of Hispanic and Latino Americans throughout the month of September. Featured stories include biologist Mario Molina, who received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on chlorofluorocarbons; botanist Ynes Mexia, who collected and preserved over 150,000 plants and flowers; and astronaut Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space.
These stories are just a small part of the rich history that Hispanic and Latino Americans have contributed to this nation, and they can be found in every corner of the country. The National Park Service is proud to partner with organizations like the Smithsonian and Lil’ Libros to bring these stories to a wide audience.
We hope that you will find these stories as interesting and captivating as we do, and that they will inspire you to discover more of the incredible contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. This month, we encourage you to reach out to your neighbors and your friends—those who share the same heritage as you or those whose stories you may not have heard.
For example, if you are interested in learning more about the cultural significance of pinatas, we encourage you to talk with your local grocer or the owners of the neighborhood taco stand about the importance of these traditions in their lives. You might be surprised at the connections you can find!