National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15, and NES is celebrating the month by recognizing the historical and cultural impact of American citizens with roots from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
Hispanic Heritage Month became official in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded the observance to a monthlong recognition. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
Hispanic heritage has had a presence in America for centuries, prior to Spain’s colonization of what is now part of the United States. Hispanic people have been integral to shaping our nation since the Revolutionary War. Today, the U.S. Latinx population is over 60 million, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This makes up 18.9% of the total population and is the largest racial or ethnic group. Latinos continue to help fuel our economy and enrich our nation as entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, entertainers, scientists, public servants and much more.
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
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