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National Hispanic Heritage Month

Heritage Month (Sept 2023)

By LU September 20, 2023

Heritage month refers to a designated month dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the culture, traditions, and contributions of a particular ethnic or cultural group. It is an opportunity to raise awareness and educate others about the history and achievements of a community, while also promoting diversity and inclusivity. Heritage months are typically organized by governments, educational institutions, or cultural organizations, and may include various activities such as festivals, exhibitions, performances, and discussions. Examples of well-known heritage months include Black History Month (February) and Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) in the United States.


In the United States, September is recognized as Hispanic Heritage Month. It is a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of Hispanic and Latin individuals and communities in American society. Hispanic Heritage Month starts on September 15th, which marks the independence day of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The celebration continues until October 15th.

During this month, various events and activities take place across the country, including festivals, parades, art exhibits, musical performances, educational presentations, and more. These events aim to showcase the rich culture, history, traditions, and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latinx people, highlighting their influence and impact on American society.


Hispanic Heritage Month offers an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to learn about and appreciate the diverse contributions that Hispanic and Latinx individuals have made to art, music, literature, science, politics, sports, and every other facet of American life. It also serves as a platform to raise awareness about important social and immigration issues that affect Hispanic and Latinx communities.


There are many ways to celebrate and honor Hispanic Heritage Month in September. Here are some ideas:

1. Attend local events: Look for festivals, concerts, art exhibits, or cultural performances happening in your community to immerse yourself in Hispanic and Latinx traditions and expressions of art.

2. Try traditional cuisine: Explore Hispanic and Latinx cuisines by trying out different dishes from various countries. Visit local restaurants or try cooking traditional recipes at home.

3. Read books by Hispanic authors: Discover the works of renowned Hispanic authors and expand your reading list. Explore literature that reflects Hispanic and Latinx experiences, cultures, and histories.

4. Watch movies and documentaries: Explore the rich film industry from Hispanic and Latinx countries by watching movies and documentaries that highlight their stories and perspectives.

5. Learn about Hispanic history: Educate yourself about the history of Hispanic and Latinx communities in the United States and their contributions to the country. Visit museums, read books, or watch documentaries that explore this history.

6. Support Hispanic-owned businesses: Seek out and support local Hispanic and Latinx-owned businesses. Shop at their stores, eat at their restaurants, or hire their services to help strengthen their economic impact.

7. Attend lectures or discussions: Look for lectures, panel discussions, or presentations about Hispanic and Latinx culture, history, or social issues. Engage in dialogue and learn from experts and community leaders.

8. Volunteer or donate: Find local organizations that support Hispanic and Latinx communities and offer your time, skills, or resources to make a positive impact.

9. Learn the language: Take the opportunity to learn or improve your Spanish skills. Enroll in language courses, practice with native speakers, or use language learning apps.

10. Engage in social media campaigns: Participate in social media campaigns that promote Hispanic and Latinx voices, stories, and achievements. Share educational or inspiring content and use relevant hashtags.




 Traditional Hispanic and Latinx recipes you can try to celebrate heritage month:

1. Tacos al Pastor: These delicious Mexican tacos are made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit. Serve them in soft corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

2. Arroz con Pollo: This classic dish from several Latin American countries combines chicken and rice with flavors from spices, tomatoes, and vegetables. It's a flavorful one-pot meal that is loved by many.

3. Ceviche: This refreshing dish is popular in various Latin American countries, particularly Peru. It typically involves marinating fish (such as tilapia or shrimp) in citrus juice, along with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and other seasonings.

4. Pupusas: A traditional Salvadoran dish, pupusas are stuffed thick corn tortillas. They can be filled with various ingredients like cheese, beans, and pork. Serve them with curtido (a type of cabbage slaw) and salsa for a complete meal.

5. Empanadas: These savory pastries are enjoyed in many Latin American countries. The filling can vary, but popular options include ground beef, cheese, chicken, or spinach. Serve them as appetizers or as a main course with a side salad.

6. Ropa Vieja: This dish originated in Cuba and means "old clothes" due to its shredded meat appearance. It is made with tender, slow-cooked shredded beef, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and spices served over rice.

7. Flan: A classic Latin American dessert, flan is a creamy caramel custard. It's made with eggs, condensed milk, and caramel sauce. It's a sweet, silky, and delicious treat to end any meal.


These are just a few examples, but there are countless other traditional Hispanic and Latin recipes you can explore. Celebrate heritage month by cooking these dishes and savoring the flavors and tastes that represent the diverse cultures within the Hispanic and Latin community.


Remember, celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month goes beyond the month of September. Foster an ongoing commitment to understanding, appreciating, and supporting Hispanic and Latin cultures and communities throughout the year.