Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) takes place September 15 to October 15 every year as a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Latino community.

Beginning in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month was originally observed as “Hispanic Heritage Week”, but it was later extended to a month in 1988. Since then, HHM has been celebrated nationwide through festivals, art shows, conferences, community gatherings, and much more. The month also celebrates the independence days of several Latin American countries, including: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15th, Mexico on September 16th, and Chile on September 18th. They also include holidays that recognize Hispanic contributions such as Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day that is celebrated in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

This year’s theme is Building Prosperous and Healthy Communities. Building upon the theme will different weeks of action focusing on how the Administration has been supporting the Latino community:

• September 15: Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off Day

• Week of September 19th: Jobs and the Economy 

• Week of September 26th: Climate  

• Week of October 3rd: Education and Investing in HSIs  

• Week of October 10th: Mental Health and Wellness 

• October 15: Last Day of Hispanic Heritage Month