National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15, is a time to honor the rich heritage, history, traditions, contributions, and cultural diversity of American citizens with roots in Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. This celebration highlights the deep connections and influences of these cultures, tracing back to Spain and 19 different countries, including Mexico, various Central and South American nations, and Caribbean territories like Puerto Rico and Cuba.
According to 2020 Census data, there are 62.1 million Hispanics living in the United States, representing 18.9 percent of the total U.S. population. This makes them the nation’s second-largest racial or ethnic group after non-Hispanic whites. Among Hispanic subgroups, Mexicans ranked as the largest, comprising 61.6 percent of the Hispanic population. This demographic's growing presence emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating their contributions to the nation.
The month-long celebration of Hispanic Heritage begins in mid-September, coinciding with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries. On September 15, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Honduras commemorate their independence from Spain, followed by Mexico on September 16 and Chile on September 18. The period also includes Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day, known as Día de la Raza, in mid-October, further emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of this time.
Hispanic Heritage Month was first introduced by Congressman George E. Brown in 1968. During the civil rights movement, the need to recognize the contributions of the Latin community gained traction, alongside growing awareness of the multicultural groups living in the United States. Congressman Brown aimed to acknowledge the integral roles of Hispanic communities in American history. Initially observed as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson, the celebration was later extended to a 30-day period by President Ronald Reagan, beginning on September 15 and ending on October 15. This observance was enacted into law on August 17, 1988.
This year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” resonates deeply with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District’s (MPUSD) commitment to inciting excellence and inspiring change throughout our schools and communities. At MPUSD, we believe that every student, family, and staff member plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our educational community. This theme aligns with our dedication to inclusivity, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage and significant contributions of Hispanic students, families, and staff are not only acknowledged but celebrated.
The collaboration between our families, staff, and the wider community is essential to the success of MPUSD’s students. By embracing this partnership, we strengthen our educational community and recognize the profound impact of Hispanic pioneers—past, present, and future—on our collective journey toward excellence. Together, we honor the legacy of those who have come before us and continue to inspire the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow.
The term "Hispanic" typically describes people with a heritage rooted in Spanish-speaking Latin America, while "Latino" refers to those of Latin American origin or descent, including Mexico, South and Central America, and the Caribbean.
The Board of Education of the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District proudly honors National Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing that Hispanic Americans have been integral to the prosperity of the United States, through adoption of a resolution. Their contributions to the nation are immeasurable, embodying the best of American values. The Hispanic-American community has left an indelible mark on U.S. culture and the economy, and MPUSD is committed to celebrating and supporting this legacy within our schools and community.