5 Ways College Students Can Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

Each year, between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the history and achievements of Hispanic and Latino/a people.

Organizations and communities honor their contributions, which have impacted the United States in various ways. The celebrations provide countless learning opportunities for people of all ages.

Learn about some ways you can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in college.

Beginning as a weeklong tradition in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month was expanded in 1988. The mid-September start coincides with the independence dates of several Latin American countries, including Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, and El Salvador. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days during this period.

During the month — through various events, initiatives, and activities — we recognize important Hispanic and Latino/a figures, acknowledge their accomplishments, and share in the vibrant cultures and heritages that make up the Hispanic and Latino/a communities.

National Hispanic Heritage Month amplifies Hispanic and Latino/a voices and shines a light on communities and cultures across the U.S.

It celebrates American diversity and offers an education on the impact of Hispanic and Latino/a people on the nation. The celebration also gives Hispanic and Latino/a communities space to commemorate their past and look to the future.

Part of the goal of Hispanic Heritage Month is to increase the visibility of people, achievements, and events that have helped shape the United States. You can learn about famed artists, leaders, performers, and politicians who continue making a difference.

Many Hispanic Heritage Month activities and initiatives strive to build awareness.

Organizations may highlight ongoing challenges for Hispanic and Latino/a people and bring attention to issues within their communities. The month also celebrates the multiple and diverse identities among Hispanic and Latino/a people, welcoming others to observe and participate in their traditions and festivals.

Hispanic Heritage Month provides ample educational material for classrooms and communities.

These celebrations can stimulate community involvement, provide inspirational content, and encourage more organizations to increase diversity and opportunities for Hispanic and Latino/a people.

National Hispanic Heritage Month encourages people to broaden their horizons, learn about Hispanic and Latino/a heritages, and experience different cultures. This celebratory month emphasizes Hispanic and Latino/a art, accomplishments, and educational resources. It also increases visibility for great Hispanic and Latino/a people from the past and present.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated every year from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. It began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 when Congress passed legislation. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the bill, which established National Hispanic Heritage Week, into law.

The decision to extend Hispanic Heritage Week into a month-long observance happened two decades later. U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres of California brought the idea to the table. The bill languished on the U.S. House of Representatives floor, but U.S. Sen. Paul Simon created similar legislation.

This bill passed the U.S. Congress and was signed by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. President George H.W. Bush signed Proclamation 6021 the next year, sealing the deal. Since then, every sitting U.S. president has issued a proclamation designating Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the cultures and contributions of people whose ancestors came from countries located in North America, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Europe.

Among the countries included are:

Hispanic Heritage Month starts in September because several countries observe their independence day on Sept. 15. These include Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Honduras.

Mexico and Chile also commemorate their independence days in September: Mexico on Sept. 16 and Chile on Sept. 18.

Hispanic Heritage Month extends into October because other culturally significant days occur during this time. Most notable is Día de la Raza, a decolonized alternative to Columbus Day.