A Closer Look at Hispanic Heritage Month
What is Hispanic heritage month?
Starting on September 15th and ending on October 15th, we celebrate our Hispanic heritage. Hispanic heritage month is a time that honors the cultures and accomplishments of both Hispanics and Latinx peoples in the United States. We are encouraged to look at the past, present, and future accomplishments of the Hispanic community, and take part in this colorful celebration to provide a better understanding of the impact Hispanics have had on the U.S. By taking a closer look at why we proudly celebrate our culture, we are one step closer to creating a more inclusive environment!
What does this month mean to Hispanics?
This wonderful time of year gives a sense of pride to Hispanics everywhere! Being proud of where you come from and who you are is one of the main qualities Hispanic cultures share. One can’t help but feel a little overwhelmed with pride when you see your culture being honored on various social media platforms or events. All customs are beautiful in their own way, and we are no exception. From the delicious food to the colorful aesthetics, and even the passionate music, we are here for it! Despite past challenges of prejudice, that has not stopped the Hispanic community from being proud of who they are. In fact, because Hispanics feel such a sense of pride towards their culture, it’s important to share it with the rest of the U.S. Hispanics want our nation to know who they are, and what culture(s) they proudly represent. Hispanic icons such as Frida Kahlo, Cesar Chavez, Sonia Sotomayor, Lin Manuel Miranda, AOC, and of course, Selena Quintanilla, have all made a tremendous impact on the U.S. Hispanics have inspired many from all cultures and make up a good portion of the U.S. population, which is another reason why this month is so meaningful. The U.S. is a diverse and multicultural country, and Hispanic culture is a significant part of its roots.
“I feel very proud to be Mexican. I didn’t have the opportunity to learn Spanish when I was a girl, but it’s never too late to get in touch with your culture.”
- Selena Quintanilla
How to support your fellow Hispanic friends and family:
A good way to help celebrate this special month is to make conscious efforts to learn more about the Hispanic culture. Consequently, you end up growing in appreciation for everything they stand for. Educating yourself also brings you closer to your Hispanic loved ones! Trying new things may be scary, but experiencing the beauty new cultures have to offer is so worth it. Not only will you be more knowledgeable, but you will also flourish as a person. It should be noted that the best way to learn about another person’s culture is to ask direct questions. Try to be culturally sensitive with your questions, to ensure you don’t offend your friends or family. Overall, just keep an open-minded attitude during this month, and embrace the opportunity to learn more about other cultures!