What’s the significance of Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month?
In the U.S., did you know Hispanic and Latinx communities represent the largest minority group in the country, making up nearly a fifth of Americans?
The contributions of these communities are vast, and beginning in 1968, the U.S. officially began recognizing their contributions with “Hispanic Heritage Week.” The week commemorated the anniversary of independence from Spain for Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica on September 15th; the independence of Mexico on September 16th; and Chile on September 18th. Twenty years later, a bill was passed to extend the recognition from a week to a full month—Hispanic Heritage Month—spanning from Sept 15-Oct 15.
As we continue celebrating throughout the month, it is important for us not only as a firm, but as people to include in this celebration the Latinx community. The term “Hispanic” is based on a commonality within our people through the Spanish language; however, that doesn’t include many of our afro-latinx, indigenous communities and non-spanish speaking countries whom we share a great deal of traditions. So this year, we’ll be joining many other organizations in recognizing the month as Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month. The use of the “x” is a gender-neutral alternative to latina/o.
I look forward to celebrating Latinx/Hispanic Heritage month with you!
