Today We Start Hispanic Heritage Month

Today we start Hispanic Heritage Month. Many people are still not quite sure why we celebrate the month. Some think it is just a great reason to have a party but there is much more to this national recognition of the Hispanic community. It started as a small White House ceremony over 40 years ago. In September 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week. The observance was expanded in 1988 to a month long celebration (Sept. 15 � Oct. 15). America celebrates the culture and traditions of U.S. residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean. September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively. So, when someone asks you why we have Hispanic Heritage Month you can now intelligently answer the question. There is so much more to it than just an excuse to party and drink imported beer. Enjoy the month and embrace you heritage amigos