The Nubian News/El Latino News Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15th to October 15th is National Hispanic Heritage Month. The month-long celebration recognizes the valuable contributions made by residents of Hispanic descent to all aspects of American life, including leadership in public service, sports, business, the arts, science, technology, education, and civil and human rights.

Hispanic Heritage Month, which was first observed in 1968, begins each year on September 15th. September 15th was chosen as the starting point for the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month because it is the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18.

Hispanics have had a profound and positive influence in the US through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. Hispanics have shaped and enhanced US society with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their communities.

Hispanic Heritage Month provides a special opportunity for educators, schools, as well as public and private institutions to focus on the many Hispanic Americans whose lives and works have shaped the history and fabric of American society.

The land and countries where Spanish and Portuguese are the primary languages in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America were originally inhabited by various indigenous Indian groups. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Spanish and Portuguese colonists from Spain and Portugal brutally overran the indigenous Indians, subjugating them to European conquest. Within a few years of the brutal conquest, Spanish and Portuguese colonists brought enslaved Africans to work the conquered lands.

This mix of indigenous Indians, Europeans, and Africans developed the rich history and culture of what is called Hispanic culture. The indigenous Indian, African, and European influence is significant and can be found in the customs, music, religion, and other aspects of Hispanic culture.

Today, 57.5 million people are classified as Hispanic/Latinx, representing 18% of the American population. There are 1,730,000 Hispanics/Latinx in New Jersey, 19% of the total state population. The city of Trenton is home to 29,996 Hispanics, representing 35.5% of the city’s total population.

The Nubian News/El Latino News recognizes and appreciates the contributions and achievements of the Hispanic/Latinx community and celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month.

Share to your favorite social media page