What began as an annual weeklong celebration more than 55 years ago in the U.S. has blossomed into the robust National Hispanic Heritage Month, designed to commemorate the rich heritage and significant contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.
Fast Forward from the Late 1960s
Initially, the government-designated Hispanic heritage commemorative period – which began in the U.S. in 1968 – was just a week. But over the years, Hispanic Heritage Week grew rapidly in both stature and the scope of its activities and traditions. At the same time, the overall population of Americans with Hispanic heritage continued to grow.
So, in 1988, U.S. President Ronald Reagan signed Congressional legislation that expanded the observance to a month. Subsequently, in 1989, President George H. W. Bush proclaimed September 15 through October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month, a Presidential proclamation tradition that’s continued every year since.
Strength in Diversity
The Coconut Grove Business Improvement District recognizes that people of diverse cultures and backgrounds have much to contribute to businesses, communities, and society as a whole. Simply put, we’re much “stronger together.” For those of other cultures or ethnic backgrounds, thanks too for all you do. Together, we can create amazing “shared” opportunities for future happiness and success.
A September 15 Rationale
National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates people living in the U.S. whose ancestors hailed from countries where Spanish is the primary language. For a sense of the importance of this population, per the 2020 U.S. Census, the Hispanic or Latino population was the country’s second-largest racial or ethnic group, comprising 18.7% of the total U.S. population.
And the basis for a September 15 start? One reason is that on September 15, 1821, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua all declared their independence from Spain. Plus, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on September 16 and September 18, respectively. While Belize declared its independence from Great Britain much later, on September 21, 1981, it’s since been added to the list of nations celebrated with Hispanic heritage activities.
A New Theme Every Year
From early Spanish colonialism to civil rights to key Supreme Court decisions, notable events in U.S. Hispanic and Latino history have been reflected in the changing themes for each year’s National Hispanic Heritage Month.
What’s the official theme for 2026? It’s Unidos, Somos Más, which translates to “Together, We Are More.”
Be sure to click below to check out a list of local celebrations compiled by Miami Living Magazine to help you enjoy Hispanic Heritage Month. Click here to learn more about free concerts, art exhibitions and more ways to celebrate.