As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, we’re also reflecting on how Hispanic people have helped shape the nation. But it’s important to note that there is some confusion about what the word Hispanic actually means.
Hispanic heritage is a group of cultures and traditions that spans across countries and territories, including Mexico, Spain, Central America, and South America. It encompasses the languages, food, dance, art, music, and customs of the region. Many Hispanic Americans have ties to the indigenous peoples of the Americas. These connections are reflected in the names of many cities, towns and neighborhoods and in the cuisines that are prepared in these places.
For example, in the United States, the city of Houston is named for a Spanish queen and is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine. In Puerto Rico, the capital is San Juan and the island is home to traditional Spanish and Amerindian dishes. In addition, the language of Puerto Rico is Spanish and most residents of the island are Hispanic.
Similarly, in California, the city of Los Angeles is named for a Spanish King and is known for its Latino restaurants and culture. In fact, the city’s population is more than 50 percent Hispanic.
The term Hispanic has been around for centuries and is used to describe those who have ancestors from a country or territory that speaks primarily Spanish, or for whom Spanish is the primary language. Hispanics are one of the nation’s largest and most diverse groups, with a population that makes up about 18.5% of the U.S. population in 2020.
Because of the large number of Hispanics in the United States, there is no single definition of Hispanic heritage, or even a consensus on what it means to be Hispanic. Some use the term to refer to those who are of Mexican, Cuban or Puerto Rican descent, while others see Hispanic as a more general category that includes all of those from countries or territories in Latin America.
In some communities, the term is also referred to as Latino or Latina, depending on the individual’s preference and the history of their community. Some individuals have chosen to use these terms as a way of embracing their own culture and connecting with people from different backgrounds.
The National Park Service recognizes that there are a variety of ways to celebrate Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month, from September 15 to October 15. We encourage you to use the resources below to learn more, reflect, and honor the many contributions made by those with Hispanic or Latino heritage.
Some of our favorite Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month activities include learning about the foods, art, and traditions that make up each culture. Others, like the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor, host block parties for Dia de los Muertos and invite community members to join in making food, music, and decorations. The organization’s youth members also assist in the planning of the event, which is held at a local park each year.