National Hispanic Heritage Month 2023

September 15, 2023 - Announcements

Dear AMDA Community,

Join us in the celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month (NHHM)! Observed annually from September 15-October 15, this year’s theme is “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America.”  This theme highlights the contributions of those from the Hispanic diaspora to America’s economic, political, and social growth.  

The span of NHHM is designed to incorporate several important dates. September 15 marks the Independence Day of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. On September 16, Mexico celebrates its Independence Day, followed by Chile on September 18 and Belize on September 21. First decreed by President Lyndon Johnson, the yearly celebration of NHHM initially began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week. It was later expanded in 1988 to cover a 30-day period, officially enacted into law on August 17, 1988.

NHHM is meant to honor and acknowledge the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the Hispanic and Latinx/e community in various ways. 

Check out some fun ways to celebrate and resources for further education about National Hispanic Heritage Month below:

Exhibits & History:

https://latino.si.edu/learn/teaching-and-learning-resources/hispanic-heritage-month-resources

https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/

Music:

The Library of Congress highlights 6 songs by Hispanic artists that have made a lasting impact on music

NPR’s playlist of Hispanic artists performing their songs live

Chicago Symphony Orchestra curated a collection of classical music from Hispanic artists

The History Channel has the origin of seven key Latin music genres

Literature:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/the-read-down/hispanic-heritage-month/

Here at AMDA, we take pride in celebrating all Hispanic and Latinx/e Americans and their essential place in our nation's history.

In community,

The Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion