What began as a week-long celebration in 1968 has become the nationally recognized celebration we know as Hispanic Heritage Month. Celebrate with Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.

Why is H&LH celebrated each year from September 15th to October 15th?

September 15 is recognized as the start of Hispanic and Latin Heritage month because it is the anniversary of independence for many Latin American countries including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Día de la Raza falls on October 12.

Why Hispanic and Latin Heritage month?

Over its 50 years, Hispanic Heritage Month has faced challenges regarding its name including proposals to change the month to Latino or Latina Heritage Month. Recently, Latinx and Latine have joined the conversation. Ultimately, there is no one term that can include the entirety of Hispanic and Latin American culture and experiences.

As such, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh has made the intentional decision to celebrate both Hispanic and Latin heritage. The fraught history behind identity-based celebrations won’t disappear if we simply ‘get the name right.’ However, at the Library, we will always strive to create an environment in which all people feel welcome.

Want to learn more about naming conventions for Hispanic and Latin Heritage Month? Find resources here and here.