National Hispanic Heritage Month 2020

Photo Credit: iStock.com/Vitalii Abakumov
Photo Credit: iStock.com/Vitalii Abakumov

From September 15 to October 15, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing and celebrating the histories, cultures, achievements, and contributions of more than 60 million Hispanic Americans. Communities throughout the U.S. pay tribute to generations of Hispanic and Latino Americans with festivals and educational activities.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence of five 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.

Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month from the #VMSIFamily!