The Essence of Hispanic Heritage Month: One Texan’s Guide
As of 2021, Texas has the second-largest Hispanic population in the United States (California is number one with over 15.4 million Hispanics). So is it no wonder that President Johnson of Texas, President Ronald Reagan of California, and President George H.W. Bush of Texas all played major roles in signing bills proclaiming National Hispanic Week/Month.
So what exactly is Hispanic Heritage Month all about? Who are Hispanics and where are they from? And why is Hispanic Heritage Month half of one month and half of another?? Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15th through October 15th.
First off, National Hispanic Week was established by legislation and signed into law in 1968, including both September 15 and 16. In 1988 the commemorative week was expanded to a month (Sep 15 - Oct 15) and signed into law by President Reagan. September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the commemoration because the Mexican War of Independence began at this time in September 1810.
The 30-day period includes many dates of importance in the Hispanic community. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua celebrate their anniversaries of independence on September 15. Mexico commemorates its independence from Spain on September 16, Chile commemorates its independence on September 18, and Día de la Raza (aka Columbus Day) is celebrated on October 12.
As a "military brat" from Texas, I believe it's very important to include the Hispanics who have served our country. During Hispanic Heritage Month, the U.S. Military honors both the fallen and active-duty Hispanic Americans who have served. Sixty-one Americans of Hispanic heritage have been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, two were presented to members of the Navy, 13 to members of the U.S. Marine Corps, and 46 to members of the U.S. Army and Air Force.
Just as important are the Hispanic business owners who keep commerce alive and growing by conducting business in Texas and the U.S. and providing jobs to many Americans. By the way, Texas ranks at the top with California and Florida for having the most Hispanic-owned businesses.
I hope you'll go out and celebrate in your own way. I know I will, and I wish you a very Happy Hispanic Heritage Month. Source: Politico.com, Census.gov, Reference.com, and Wikipedia.