Hispanic Latinx Heritage Month

Hispanic Latinx Heritage month, ranging from September 15th to October 15th, is a national celebration of the culture, history, and contributions of Latin American and Hispanic people in the United States. The month ranges from mid-September to mid-October because it marks the anniversary of independence for countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Chile from Spain. We also celebrate Hispanic Latinx Heritage month at SOHS! Spanish instructor Professor Valdano has created presentations for homerooms for this month, and many events have been taking place, such as the Documentary Underwater Dreams Viewing!

Throughout the month, there is a commemoration of the diversity of ethnicities and rich cultures. This includes Cuba and Brazil who have important African-Latinx traditions; Bolivia has an incredible indigenous presence in its day-to-day life; and Argentina and Buenos Aires have more European influence. “It is not just one version of the culture, it is many versions with lots of diversity” (Professor Valdano, SOHS). In just one continent you can see various traditions belonging to different people.

This month isn’t only about celebration, but also a recognition of the struggles these communities face. According to the U.S. census, Hispanic and Latinx citizens make up 18.5% of the United States population, meaning they are an important and big part of the U.S. despite the underrepresentation of their communities in media and television. The media, politicians, and Hollywood often distort who Latinx are by portraying them incorrectly which leads to harmful stereotyping. Hispanics also contribute to the US economy and diversity, but they also face many challenges due to poverty, immigration status, or marginalization, which makes it more difficult to achieve all of their goals. 

“We share history and wounds, but at the same time we are different people in many different parts. Our soul can be similar, but how we project that soul is different.” (Professor Valdano, SOHS). Latinx have made an impact shaping the nation.  Mexican people and their ancestors have been part of the US long before the US as a nation was formed. Many cities in Texas, California, and Florida speak Spanish on a daily basis and have Hispanic architecture and traditions that have shaped the history and culture of those places.  

Don’t miss out on other events taking place throughout the month, like a neighborhood walk-through with Professor Valdano and student Kiko Cortez along with a possible poem reading and a new LatinX Student Alliance! Make sure to check them out! More information is on the family gateway and the Student & Community Resources' Clubs and Circles page.

Citations:

Professor Valdano, Stanford Online Highschool

“U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: United States.” Census Bureau QuickFacts, United States Census, 2020, www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/RHI725219.