Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.
United States: Hispanic or Latino population makes up about 18.5% or about 60.7 million in the United States
Florida: Hispanic or Latino population makes up about 26.4% or about 5.67 million in Florida
Orange County: Hispanic or Latino population makes up about 32.7% or about 455,658 in Orange County
Population statistics based on data from the US Census and the Pew Research Center.
Hispanic: Relating to Spain or to Spanish-speaking countries, especially those of Latin American
Latino(a): A person of Latin American origin or descent
Latinx: A person of Latin American origin or descent. Used as a gender-neutral or nonbinary alternative to Latino or Latina
Chicano(a): an American of Mexican origin or descent
First Generation: designating the first of a generation to become a citizen in a new country
Definitions from Oxford Languages
