Hispanic Heritage Month has a rich history of how it was introduced into the United States of America! Originally, it was only a week started by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966. It was later changed to a month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to quote “allow for more time to recognize the diverse contributions and align with the independence days of Hispanic countries” (Smithsonian).

Many states in the US also individually recognize the independence days of certain Hispanic countries. For example, Brazil’s Independence Day is recognized as a major holiday in Boston MA, due to the large Brazilian population, it falls on September 7th each year. In Texas, there are numerous parades on September 16th to celebrate Mexican Independence Day.

There is also a festival in Arlington, Virginia, on both September 7th and September 27th, celebrating the diverse culture of Hispanic heritage month and serving food, presenting art, and games! It’s being hosted at the Arlington Community Center from five to nine!

There are many ways that Hispanic heritage month is celebrated across the globe. Here in the US, there are many big parades and events across many states. Even here locally in Virginia, people celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! From September 15th to October 15th, people will celebrate their diverse culture and the freedoms of their Hispanic country of origin!