National Hispanic Heritage Month starts on September 15 and ends October 15, 2024. Even though, it is officially a month-long celebration, contributions are felt and made all year long. Many Latino and Hispanic communities feel a sense of honor throughout this special holiday. The timing of NHHM marks dates of independence for several Latino countries.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? If you are not sure what it is all about take some time to research more about it. Afterwards, you can share and spread the word about what you have learned. Use this time to learn Spanish, if you choose to. Check out some local events in your community. There are many ways to celebrate and show support for the Latino and Hispanic communities and all they have done for the betterment of America.
The theme for 2024 is Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together
Let us take our hats off to those who have helped make positive strides in Latin American Countries and all over the world.
The Pittsburg Pirates is the team for which he played 18 seasons of major league Baseball. The first Latin-American player to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. During the off-season of Baseball, he would deliver food and baseball equipment to those who needed it. Roberto Clemente died at the early age of 38 in a plane crash. This plane crash happened while on the way to help victims of an earthquake in Nicaragua. Not only did he make his mark in Baseball but also he will be remembered as a humanitarian.
Quote- “A nation without heroes is nothing.”Roberto Clemente
Music/Entertainment-Jennifer Lopez– A Puerto Rican singer, dancer and actress.
Jennifer Lopez also called J Lo, has been going strong for many years. She has released music, starred in movies and also was a dancer on the show, In Living Color as one of the Fly Girls. While encompassing motherhood and married life, J Lo has not shied away from her aspirations. Not only has she acted in movies but also produced several of the same. Most recently she has won the Icon Award at the iHeartRadio Music Awards this year. She also has clothing and perfume. Needless to say, Jennifer Lopez is successful in her multi-faceted career. She has many accolades to her name and is a very influential person in the music and movie industries.
Quote- “Doubt is a killer. You just have to know who you are and what you stand for.” Jennifer Lopez
Julia Alvarez writes poems, essays and novels. Her poem, Exile reflects upon the time her family had to run to the United States. In 2013, she received a National Medal of Arts award. This award was presented to Julia Alvarez by president, Barack Obama. The highest award given by the United States government for artists and art patrons. Some of her notable works include, In the Time of the Butterflies, How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents and Yo!.
Quote- “A book does not discriminate against anyone. All are welcome to the table of literature.”Julia Alvarez
Politics-Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez– A very visible political figure.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was born to Puerto Rican parents in the Bronx, New York. She was on the campaign trail in 2016 with Bernie Sanders. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) attended the Dakota Access Pipeline protests in North Dakota. Also, AOC was there in support of the Flint, Michigan water crisis. In 2018 she was elected into the House of Representatives. In support of climate change, she has been outspoken and is involved in the Green New Deal. The Green New Deal encompasses the reduction of air and water pollution, addressing wages and union jobs. Creating green jobs and ending use of fossil fuels is the goal.
Quote- “I don’t think any person in America should die because they are too poor to live.”Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
Sport your beard on World Beard Day. Whether you wear it neat or let it do its own thing. No matter if your beard is longer or close cut to your face, it’s your day!
Beards have been around for many years. One of the best things about a beard is that you can wear it how you want. Add your own personal touch. Wear it the best way that fits your personality.
You can let it grow naturally, dye it, cut it close. Wear it any length you want. In the winter months, a beard helps to keep you warm. It also provides some skin protection from the sun during the warmer times of year.
Labor Day- September 5th
Labor Day is a day to remember the rights that have been won. The rights for working conditions that are safe, fair working hours, time off from work, etc. People have fought and won rights for the working class. All around the world we celebrate Labor Day by spending time with friends/family. Usually, at a cook-out or picnic, some people use fireworks on this day. Some parts of the world have parades. You might also attend a party in celebration of this day. There is no right or wrong way to commemorate this important day. New York City was the first to hold a parade in support and celebration of their union members and also in recognition of other unions being formed.
National Day of Encouragement- September 12
National Day of Encouragement implores us to encourage people around us. Say a few positive words to those in our lives who may need just that. This day has been around since 2007 and is a way to lift people’s spirits and spread positivity. Spread good cheer. Encouragement can be in the form of words or deeds. Taylor the positivity to the individual person or situation.
Hispanic Heritage Month- Sept 15-Oct 15
Late September into early October is the time of year for recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month. The Latino and Hispanic American community has made many contributions for the betterment of America. Originally, it started out as a week-long celebration in 1968. Two decades later it became a month-long celebration, declared by President Ronald Reagan.
The reason Hispanic Heritage Month starts in the middle of September, is because it coincides with independence of countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile and others.
We can see the added value in education, music, food, and the entertainment industry. The contributions by the Hispanic and Latino culture go hand-in-hand with the success of America.
National Situational Awareness Day- Sept 26th
National Situational Awareness Day is about personal safety. Being aware of what and who is around you. These days people are consumed with their electronics and are walking with their head down looking at a device. It is important to pay attention. Especially when out alone, do not be distracted. In just a few moments a predator can catch someone in a vulnerable spot.
Things you can do are to walk with your head up. Take inventory of your surroundings. Notice body language of people. Visualize an escape plan. Lock the doors of your car and house behind you. You get the idea. Just be on the lookout for anything or anyone suspicious. Stay woke.
