09/15/2021
National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15
National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson
It was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period
It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua
In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively
Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30-day period. The Law Library of Congress has compiled guides to commemorative observations, including a comprehensive inventory of the Public Laws, Presidential Proclamations and congressional resolutions related to National Hispanic Heritage Month.
