It’s National Hispanic Heritage Month! Each year the United States celebrates the cultural, political, scientific, and historical contributions of the Hispanic and Latinx communities in a month-long time of recognition. At Rio, we’re proud of all our Hispanic and Latinx students, faculty, and staff members. We’re hosting a special event this week to honor this occasion and our library staff have put together an insightful guide with more information about this special time. Read on for more information about how to join our celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Why We Celebrate
Hispanic Heritage Month was started in 1968 as a week-long acknowledgement during the Lyndon B. Johnson administration. It was expanded into a full month by President Reagan in 1988. Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15. The significance of that September date stems from September being the independence date for several Latin American countries (including Costa Rica, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua). Both Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence in mid-September.
Each year the heritage month offers a different theme. For 2024, the Hispanic Heritage Month theme is Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.
Learn More About Hispanic Heritage Month
Our library staff have put together a guide to Hispanic Heritage Month. The guide includes a breakdown of demographic information, historical documents, documentaries, NPR show links, and a recommended reading list.
Check out the library guide here.
Speaking of recommendations: if you’re looking for books and/or films to help get you into the spirit of the month, check out our picks for art to enjoy during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Inspiring Change: Latinx Professionals in Higher Education
Join us as we celebrate Latinx Heritage Month with inspiring stories, cultural pride, and practical insights from Latinx leaders in education. This virtual event, scheduled for 1-2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18, will feature a diverse panel of higher education leaders from across the nation, Rio Salado staff, and student voices, offering a rich perspective on how to harness your heritage and community to thrive in higher education and beyond.
After the panelists answer a series of questions, we will open the floor for a Q&A session where you’ll have the chance to voice your story, ask questions, and connect with others. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage, share, and build community!
Save The Date: 7th Annual Tamales Workshops in December
Just because Hispanic Heritage Month ends in October doesn’t mean you can’t keep deepening your appreciation for Hispanic and Latinx culture! The Cafe @ Rio will be hosting holiday tamale-making workshops in December. Students will work with a professional chef to learn how to make red chile chicken and green chile pork tamales.
There will be four sessions to choose from and space is limited, so register early before they sell out!
Article by Austin Brietta