National Hispanic Heritage Month

Photo of dancers with colorful dresses swirling in the air.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 - October 15 in the United States. The month-long celebration commemorates the history, heritage, and achievements of Hispanic and Latino Americans and their ancestors from Latin American countries, the Caribbean, and Spain. 

During National Hispanic Heritage Month, festivals and educational events are held throughout the U.S. 

Here are some ideas for how you can learn about and celebrate Hispanic American history and culture:

  1. Attend celebrations being held in your communities.
  2. Support Hispanic-owned businesses in your neighborhood. 
  3. Explore a virtual exhibition of Hispanic artifacts on the National Museum of American History’s website. 
  4. Learn about famous Hispanic artists like Frida Khalo, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Diego Rivera, and Pablo Picasso.
  5. Watch a YouTube documentary to learn about the rich culture and history of the Hispanic people. Some recommendations include Paper Children, a film about a Honduran family’s immigration to the U.S. -- and The Latino List, which features 16 well-known figures from the Latinx community in the U.S., each of whom discusses their family’s immigration story, the challenges they’ve faced on the road to success, and much more. 

Originally established as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, National Hispanic Heritage Month was expanded to a month and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. The following year on Sept. 14, 1989, it was first proclaimed by George H.W. Bush.

September 15 marks the start date of National Hispanic Heritage Month because it’s the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores, which marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence. Mexico, many Central American countries, and Chile celebrate their independence on September 15, 16, and 18 respectively.

TwinStar recognizes and honors the contributions that Hispanic Latino Americans make within their local communities. We proudly support our local Hispanic Latino American communities by supporting CIELO's mission in Thurston and Lewis counties, being active participants of the Grays Harbor RISE Coalition that serves the Spanish-speaking community in the area, and sponsoring the Latinos Unidos Culture Club at Franklin Pierce High School in Pierce County. 

And this October, we're partnering with South Sound YMCA to host the 2023 Emerging Multicultural Leaders Experience (EMLE) Conference.  

As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, we want to acknowledge our TwinStar members and employees who are of Hispanic and Latino descent. We’re grateful for the impact you and your ancestors have made on our lives and communities.