Hispanic Heritage Month: Let's Celebrate!

Published: October 11, 2021

It’s Hispanic Heritage Month! From September 15 through October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the achievements, contributions, cultures, and histories of Hispanic Americans. One of the goals of Hispanic Heritage Month is to shine a spotlight on the accomplishments of entrepreneurs, artists, performers, politicians, educators, researchers, and the everyday heroes of the Latinx community.

First designated as a weeklong celebration by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month was officially established in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan. Hispanic Heritage Month starts in mid-September in recognition of the eight Latin American countries that celebrate their independence during this time:

• September 15: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua
• September 16: Mexico
• September 18: Chile
• September 21: Belize

Of course, Hispanic Americans from all Hispanic and Latin American backgrounds recognize and enjoy the four-week celebration, regardless of which country their families came from.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Center would like to share various community events and links to Hispanic-owned businesses, including:

Businesses:

• Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• Hispanic and Latinx Women-Owned Businesses in Austin
• 80+ Latinx-Owned Businesses to Support Today and Every Day
• 10 More Latinx-Owned Small Businesses

Events:

• The Latin American Market will be held in Austin on October 3^rd from 10:30 am-2:30 pm.
• Viva Mexico 2021 at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center
• Mexic-Arte Museum’s Fall 2021 Exhibits Grand Opening
• The Smithsonian hosts virtual events throughout the month to celebrate.

The contributions of Hispanic heritage can be felt across Texas, through history, art, food, and more. We hope you take the time during this special designated month to learn more about the Hispanic impact in your community.