Each year from September 15 to October 15 we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month.  The theme this year, created by the National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers, is “Hispanic Americans:  Making a Positive Impact on American Society.”

During this time we celebrate the many contributions of the diverse cultures within the Hispanic community, the histories and cultures of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. 

The origin of National Hispanic Heritage Month began September 17, 1968, with the creation of Public Law 90-498, National Hispanic Heritage Week, to honor the accomplishments of Hispanic-American citizens.  On August 17, 1988, the law was amended to allow a month- long celebration.  The September-October period covers a wide range of Independence Days for Latin American countries:  Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua celebrate their independence on September 15.  Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16th, Chile on September 18th and Belize on September 21st.  Columbus Day (El Dia de la Raza) is observed on October 12th. 

The term “Hispanic”, as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, refers to Spanish-speaking people of any race in the United States.  On the 2000 Census form, people of Spanish/ Hispanic/ Latino origin could identify themselves as Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or "other Spanish/Hispanic/Latino."  More than 35 million people identified themselves as Hispanic or Latino on the 2000 Census, and by 2020 one in five Americans will be Hispanic/Latino.

This month many educators throughout America will be teaching about the contributions of Hispanic Americans.  Learning about Hispanic culture and contributions to America can only build the self-esteem and pride of those who identify themselves as Mexican-American, Cuban-American, Puerto Rican-American, or Spanish-American. 

Not only students can benefit from such knowledge.  It is essential that all of us learn to understand the ethnic diversity that is our country.  Integrating the cultures in the social studies classroom helps develop "ethnic literacy" in all students.  Developing ethnic literacy fosters pride in one's own culture and a respect and appreciation for the uniqueness of others.  Promoting cultural diversity among the work force develops cohesion and a multi-talented organization.  We need to capitalize on each individual's talent and appreciate our cultural heritage as our students grow up in a global society.  

I encourage you to participate in some of the activities or celebrations in your community during National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam