What Is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the contributions of Americans tracing their roots to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Spanish-speaking nations of the Caribbean.

When Is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15th to October 15th. In June 1968, Congressman George E. Brown set aside a week for Hispanic Heritage under the President Lyndon B. Johnson and two decades later expanded it to a month celebration by President Ronald Regan. This was enacted into Public Law via approval 100-402 on August 17, 1988.

Why Is It Not A Traditional Month?

The choice to run from the 15th to the 15th is historically significant as September 15 is the anniversary of independence in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. The designated period is also a nod to those from Mexico and Chile, which celebrate their independence September 16 and September 18, respectively. Dia de la Raza or Columbus Day also falls within this month, on October 12.