hispanic heritage month essay topics

Hispanic Heritage Month: A Resource Guide

If you would like to view this guide in another language, please use the drop-down menu at the top left corner of this page. / Si desea ver esta guía en otro idioma, utilice el menú desplegable en la esquina superior izquierda de esta página.

National Hispanic Heritage Month (NHHM) begins Sept. 15 and runs through Oct. 15. This month offers an opportunity to explore the stories and perspectives of those who identify as members of the Hispanic and Latinx community. The library aims to include such topics in programming and content throughout the year, and this month serves as a chance to focus our efforts.

NHHM  began  in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week.  President Lyndon B. Johnson designated the week  in response to efforts by legislators amid the increased focus on representation sparked by the Civil Rights Movement. Decades later, President Ronald Reagan, again building upon the efforts of legislators, transitioned the week to a monthlong period. In 1989, President George H.W. Bush became  the first president to proclaim NHHM , and President Joseph R. Biden renewed this annual proclamation in 2022 and again in 2023 . The start date of Sept. 15 was selected for its historical significance to multiple Latin American countries, as  several  celebrate their independence days on or near Sept. 15. Mexico celebrates its independence on Sept. 16, while Chile observes theirs on Sept. 18. As this variation indicates, NHHM highlights a broad and diverse group of peoples, including those with  ancestry linked to  Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

A note on terminology: both “Hispanic” and “Latino” are widely used general terms for people with ancestry from these regions, “Latina,” “Latinx” and “Latine” are also in use, with  differing opinions  about their meaning and interchangeability. While the month is officially known as National Hispanic Heritage Month, the library frequently uses both “Hispanic” and “Latinx” to stay current with national conversations about language. As always with terminology of this nature, it is recommended to defer to the preferences of the person or people who are members of a given community.

2024 Programs at the Library

At the Festival Cultural Latino on Sept. 15, a major intergenerational event in the town’s annual calendar, the rich cultural life of Princeton’s Latino community is celebrated with an afternoon of music, dance, food and crafts on both Hinds Plaza and Palmer Square. Hinds Plaza will be transformed into a traditional marketplace with a variety of artisans and vendors displaying their wares. A DJ will provide a soundtrack highlighting the music of Latin America and pop up performances by musicians and dancers will occur throughout the afternoon. Palmer Square will host music and dance performances on their stage all afternoon and local non-profits will provide activities and crafts for kids. Confirmed performers include Mariachi Los Tigres de Princeton, Alborada Dance Company, Sonqo, and Princeton Capoeira. This event is co-sponsored by Mi Pueblo Lindo, Princeton Public Library, McCarter Theatre Center, Lewis Center for the Arts, Princeton Latin American Student Association, Princeton University Art Museum, Princeton University Department of Spanish and Portuguese, and Princeton University Program in Latin American Studies. Supporting Partners also include the Garden Theatre of Princeton and the Princeton YMCA. 

On Sept. 23, the artist 7ove Child discusses the inspiration and technique behind “ Phases of the Heart ,” the exhibition on view in the library’s Reading Room. Cheng-Fen Johannemann joins the event also, in order to discuss “ Chinese Brush Painting ,” which appears along the History Hallway and in the Tech Center. A tour of artwork and reception follow the artists’ talks .

A special feature of “ Dancing Under The Stars ” on Sept. 27, the last chance to enjoy this program in 2024, highlights dances and music from Latin America as part of the library’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations. Members of Central Jersey Dance demonstrate basic steps and lead others in an evening of dancing to recorded music of all kinds on Hinds Plaza, weather permitting. In case of rain, the event moves into the Community Room. “Dancing Under the Stars” is presented in partnership with the Mayors Wellness Campaign community health initiative.

A panel on Sept. 30 exploring the newly published “ Latino Poetry: the Library of America Anthology ” launches the library’s programming for “ Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home ,” a major public humanities initiative taking place across the nation in 2024 and 2025, directed by Library of America and funded with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities and Emerson Collective. Moderated by Vivia Font, the panel includes Rigoberto Gonzalez, editor of the anthology and principal humanities advisor for the “Places We Call Home” project; Vincent Toro, humanities advisor for the “Places We Call Home” project; and Newark-based poet and multidisciplinary artist Dimitri Reyes. The panel is set to occur in person in the Community Room and to be livestreamed via YouTube. Virtual attendees may place questions in advance through registration. Registration is requested, but not required for in-person attendance.

Following this panel, a  series of four discussions  this fall continues the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month into October and beyond. Hosted by the library and facilitated by Enriqueta Carrington and Carlos Hernández Peña, each discussion is based upon the  “Places We Call Home” Project Reader , which features representative poems selected to bring out eight themes integral to the tradition of Latino poetry as well as essays by notable experts on each of the themes. These themes are treated in pairs as follows: “Ancestry & Identity” and “First & Second Homes” on Oct. 9; “Voice & Resistance” and “Language / Lenguaje” on Oct. 23; “Family and Community” and “Music and Performance” on Nov. 6; and “Labor” and “Earth, Landscape, and Myth” on Nov. 20. Meetings are scheduled for 6-7:30 p.m,. and registered participants may join the program in person or through Zoom. This poetry discussion series is also presented as part of the “Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home” initiative’s celebration and exploration of the multifaceted legacy of Latino poetry.

Learn about Hispanic and Latinx History and Experiences

See below for lists of  nonfiction  and  fiction  geared toward adult readers and centered around Hispanic and Latinx experiences and perspectives.

For  teens  and  kids , below are lists of books that highlight varied narratives and perspectives of those in the Hispanic and Latinx community.

Online resources  include:

• Materials  from the National Archives and Records Administration
• Resources  from the Library of Congress
• Information  from the National Park Service
• Collections and activities  from Google Arts and Culture

Resources for Educators

See the materials below for potential starting points for engaging learners. You’ll find lesson plans, digital tools, digital content, curricula, and more.

• Teacher resources  from the National Endowment for the Humanities
• Resources  from the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Latino
• Teacher’s guide  from Salud America!
• Resources  from Ebsco
• Lessons and activities  from the National Education Association
• Ideas for teachers  from the Anti-Defamation League
• Resources  from Facing Today, the blog of Facing History and Ourselves

This resource is made possible in part with support from the  National Endowment for the Humanities . 

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with free resources from MIT

By Katherine Ouellette

From magical realism to autobiographies like “When I Was Puerto Rican,” there’s so much to celebrate about the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. This National Hispanic Heritage Month, explore free online courses and resources about Hispanic and Latino history, art, business, and science on MIT OpenCourseWare and MITx , both part of MIT Open Learning.

History and politics

• Introduction to Latin American Studies
• The Conquest of America
• Gender, Race, and the Construction of the American West
• Modern Latin America, 1808–2005: Revolution, Dictatorship, Democracy
• Modern Mexico: Representations of Mexico City’s Urban Life
• The New Spain:1977-Present
• Race, Ethnicity, and American Politics

Arts and culture

• Introduction to Spanish Culture
• Hispanic America: One Hundred Years of Literature and Film
• Advanced Topics in Hispanic Literature and Film: The Films of Luis Buñuel
• The Beat of Brazil: Brazilian Society Through Its Music
• Linguistics and Social Justice: Language, Education, and Human Rights
• Theater and Cultural Diversity in the U.S.
• Topics in Culture and Globalization: Reggae as Transnational Culture
• Introduction to Contemporary Hispanic Literature with Prof. Margery Resnick or with Prof. Elizabeth Garrels
• Special Topics in Women & Gender Studies Seminar: Latina Women’s Voices
• Introduction to European and Latin American Fiction: Great Books on the Page and on the Screen
• Ethnic Literature in America
• International Women’s Voices
• The Business of Politics: A View of Latin America
• Global Entrepreneurship Lab: Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa
• Lean Enterprise (en Español)

Science and technology

• D-Lab: Energy
• D-Lab: Medical Technologies for the Developing World
• Materials in Human Experience
• Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python (videos con subtítulos en Español)

Urban planning and development

• Dialogue in Art, Architecture, and Urbanism
• Evaluación de Impacto de Programas Sociales (en Español)
• Leveraging Urban Mobility Disruptions to Create Better Cities
• Urban Design Seminar
• Urban Development in Conflict Cities: Planning Challenges and Policy Innovations
• Urban Energy Systems and Policy (videos doblados al Español)

These courses and resources are available through MIT OpenCourseWare and MITx, which are part of MIT Open Learning. OpenCourseWare offers free, online, open educational resources from more than 2,500 courses that span the MIT undergraduate and graduate curriculum. MITx offers hundreds of high-quality massive open online courses adapted from the MIT classroom for learners worldwide.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with free resources from MIT was originally published in MIT Open Learning on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Open Learning newsletter

The Chicago Blog

Smart and timely features from our books and authors

What to Read for National Hispanic Heritage Month

To celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, we’ve put together a reading list highlighting the arts and lives of Hispanic individuals from a range of counties and traditions. Now through October 15, enjoy 30% off these print and e-books using the code HERITAGE30 on our website.

From the University of Chicago Press

The Great Zoo: A Bilingual Edition Nicolás Guillén, Translated by Aaron Coleman A fantastical collection of poems by revolutionary Afro-Cuban poet Nicolás Guillén presented in a Spanish-English bilingual edition.

From Acre Books

Bad Mexican, Bad American: Poems Jose Hernandez Diaz

This collection of poems by Jose Hernandez Diaz showcases the unique style that has made him a rising star in the poetry community.

From Autumn House

Myth of Pterygium Diego Gerard Morrison

The story of a failed poet struggling with vision loss, personal crises, and what it means to be an arms dealer in a quasi-dystopian Mexico City.

From CavanKerry Press

In Inheritance of Drowning Dorsía Smith Silva, With a Foreword by Vincent Toro A memorable debut collection that explores colonial and generational trauma.

From Swan Isle Press 

Someone Speaks Your Name

By Luis García Montero, Translated by Katie King

“Montero offers us a coming‑of‑age story in which León grows intellectually, erotically, and politically. At the same time Spain, in the clutches of a repressive dictatorship and still suffering the aftermath of a brutal civil war, is also coming of age in its struggle toward democracy.”—Anthony Geist, translator of Rafael Alberti’s Roma, peligro para caminantes      

Zóbel Reads Lorca: Poetry, Painting, and Perlimplín In Love

By Federico García Lorca, Translated and Illustrated by Fernando Zóbel 

Painting, poetry, and music come together in Zóbel Reads Lorca, as Zóbel, a Harvard student who would become one of Spain’s most famous painters, translates and illustrates Federico García Lorca’s haunting play about the wounds of love. 

Aram’s Notebook Maria Àngels Anglada, Translated by Ara H. Merjian A mother and son’s fictional journey to escape the Armenian Genocide and start anew.

Celia in the Revolution, New edition

Elena Fortún, Translated by Michael Ugarte with a Foreword by Nuria Capdevila-Argüelles The first major English translation of the final book in the expansive and essential “Celia” series by Elena Fortún.

Finding Duende Duende: Play and Theory | Imagination, Inspiration, Evasion, Bilingual edition

Federico García Lorca, Translated by Christopher Maurer, Edited by José Javier León and Christopher Maurer A new translation of Federico García Lorca’s captivating lecture on duende.

From Omnidawn 

The Rendering

By Anthony Cody

“The dazzling graphic and concrete sensibility of the poet’s earlier work remains, yet here Cody intervenes upon photos, maps, charts, graphs, and field recordings, producing an autoethnographic score of settler (and displaced) histories.”— The Latinx Project   

“In this exciting work, history, imagination, criticism, and wonder share the page, modeling a new way of being in conversation with the world.”— Publishers Weekly , starred review  

From the University of Wales Press

Postcolonial Spain: Coloniality, Violence and Independence Edited by Helena Miguélez-Carballeira

A collection of essays illuminating the specificity of Spain’s postcolonial condition while offering a new look at Spain’s internal national conflict.

Motherhood and Childhood in Silvina Ocampo’s Works Fernanda Zullo-Ruiz

An exploration of Silvina Ocampo’s revolutionary reimagining of motherhood and childhood.

The Space of Latin American Women Modernists Camilla Sutherland

A fresh reading of Latin American modernism through the lenses of gender and space for researchers and students alike.

The Modern Spanish Sonnet Edited by John Rutherford

A selection and translation of the best Spanish sonnets from the eighteenth to twenty-first centuries.

Latin America and Existentialism: A Pan-American Literary History (1864-1938) Edwin Murillo

An illuminating reevaluation of Latin America’s importance to existentialist thought.

Women in Mexican Folk Art: Of Promises, Betrayals, Monsters, and Celebrities Eli Bartra

This beautifully illustrated volume is one of the first to trace the role and effects of gender on both the objects of Mexican folk art and the knowledge and life experiences that lie behind them.

Fractal Families in New Millennium Narrative by Afro-Puerto Rican Women John T. Maddox IV

A study of the family in contemporary Puerto Rican fiction.

From The Grolier Club

Treasures from the Hispanic Society Library Mitchell A. Codding and John O’Neill, with a Foreword by Szilvia Szmuk-Tanenbaum

Exhibiting the full range of the Manuscripts and Rare Books Department of the Hispanic Society of America, this book relates the history of Spain and the spread of its language and culture to the Americas through manuscripts and printed books.

• History Classics
• Your Profile
• Find History on Facebook (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on Twitter (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on YouTube (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on Instagram (Opens in a new window)
• Find History on TikTok (Opens in a new window)
• This Day In History
• History Podcasts
• History Vault

Hispanic Heritage Month

By: History.com Editors

Updated: August 20, 2024 | Original: September 11, 2020

Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration of the history and culture of the U.S. Latino and Hispanic communities. Hispanic Heritage Month 2024 will last from Sunday, September 15, 2024 through Tuesday, October 15, 2024. The event commemorates how those communities have influenced and contributed to American society at large.

Origins of Hispanic History Month

The term Hispanic or Latino (or the more recent term Latinx) refers to a person’s culture or origin—regardless of race. On the 2020 Census form, people were counted as Hispanic or Latino or Spanish if they could identify as having Mexican, Mexican American, Chicano, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or “another Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin.”

Hispanic Heritage Month actually began as a commemorative week when it was first introduced in June of 1968 by California Congressman George E. Brown. The push to recognize the contributions of the Hispanic community had gained momentum throughout the 1960s when the civil rights movement was at its peak and there was a growing awareness of the United States' multicultural identities.

Brown, who represented East Los Angeles and a large portion of the San Gabriel Valley—both heavily populated by members of the Hispanic and Latinx communities—wanted to recognize the role played by those communities throughout American history.

On September 17, 1968, Congress passed Public Law 90-48 , officially authorizing and requesting the president to issue annual proclamations declaring September 15 and 16 to mark the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Week and called upon the “people of the United States, especially the educational community, to observe such week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.” President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first Hispanic Heritage Week presidential proclamation the same day.

Hispanic History Milestones: Timeline

From early Spanish colonialism to civil and worker rights laws to famous firsts to Supreme Court decisions on immigration, see a timeline of notable events in U.S Hispanic and Latino history.

Latino, Hispanic, Latinx, Chicano: The History Behind the Terms

The effort to coin a term to describe a wildly diverse group of Americans has long stirred controversy.

How Puerto Rican Baseball Icon Roberto Clemente Left a Legacy Off the Field

The Pittsburgh Pirates' star—the first Latino Hall of Famer in baseball—was a hero for his charity work and social activism prior to his death in a 1972 plane crash.

Why the Date of Hispanic Heritage Month Is Important

The timing of Hispanic Heritage Month coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of several Latin American nations. September 15 was chosen as the kickoff because it coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of five “Central American neighbors,” as Johnson called them—Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Those five nations declared their independence from Spain on September 15, 1821.

In his proclamation, Johnson also acknowledged Mexico, which declared its independence from Spain on September 16, 1810. Although not mentioned specifically by Johnson, Chile also celebrates its independence during that week (September 18, 1810 from Spain) and Belize, which declared its independence from Great Britain on September 21, 1981, was subsequently added to the list of nations specifically celebrated during what is now Hispanic Heritage Month.

Hispanic Heritage Expands From a Week to a Month

From 1968 until 1988, Presidents Nixon, Ford, Carter and Reagan all issued the yearly proclamations, setting aside a week to honor Hispanic Americans. In 1987 U.S. Representative Esteban E. Torres of California proposed the expanding the observance to cover its current 31-day period. Torres wanted more time so that the nation could “properly observe and coordinate events and activities to celebrate Hispanic culture and achievement.”

In 1988, Senator Paul Simon (D-Illinois), submitted a similar bill that successfully passed Congress and was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan on August 17, 1988. And on September 14, 1989, President George H.W. Bush (who had been a sponsor of the original Hispanic Heritage Week resolution while serving in the House in 1968) became the first president to declare the 31-day period from September 15 to October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month.

“Not all of the contributions made by Hispanic Americans to our society are so visible or so widely celebrated, however. Hispanic Americans have enriched our nation beyond measure with the quiet strength of closely knit families and proud communities,” Bush said .

In the decades since, National Hispanic Heritage Month proclamations have been made by every sitting president of the United States.

National Hispanic Heritage Month Hispanic Heritage Month , United States Census Bureau The Creation and Evolution of the National Hispanic Heritage Celebration , United States House of Representatives National Hispanic Heritage Month , Library of Congress National Hispanic Heritage Month, 1989 , The America Presidency Project National Hispanic Heritage Week bill signed , Sep. 17, 1968, Politic

HISTORY Vault

Stream thousands of hours of acclaimed series, probing documentaries and captivating specials commercial-free in HISTORY Vault

Sign up for Inside History

Get HISTORY’s most fascinating stories delivered to your inbox three times a week.

By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Networks. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.

More details : Privacy Notice | Terms of Use | Contact Us

Hispanic Heritage Month Resources

About Hispanic Heritage Month

The National Museum of the American Latino observes Hispanic Heritage Month between September 15 and October 15 each year to celebrate the Latino community.

Virtual Exhibits

Explore Presente! A Latino History of the United States online or check out our other online resources below!

See all virtual exhibitions

Learn about the community of Latinas and Latinos with disabilities in the U.S!​

Discover hidden details in "¡2020!" a mixed media sculpture by artists Einar and Jamex de la Torre

Educational Resources

The Latino Museum's bilingual materials are created to explore various approaches and to enhance the classroom learning experience. They are also excellent resources for parents and caregivers looking for at-home activities. Within each guide, we provide background information, activities, vocabulary, and additional resources. 

Learn more about Bilingual Resources

Latino Patriots in American Military History This publication highlights Latino contributions to our Nation’s military from the Revolutionary War to Vietnam. This publication is free and available for download off of our website. 

Learn more about Military History (external link opens in a new tab)

Stories of Latino Achievement

This resource explores the diversity of the Latino experience in its portrayal of a group of extraordinary men and women and the stories they tell.

Learn More about Our Journeys/Our Stories: Portraits of Latino Achievement (external link opens in a new tab)

Nuestra América is a fully illustrated anthology featuring the inspiring stories of thirty Latinas and Latinos. It celebrates their contributions to the United States. Many are towards the nation’s cultural, social, and political character.

Learn More about Nuestra América: 30 Inspiring Latinas/Latinos Who Have Shaped the United States

Hispanic/Latiné/x Heritage Month

• Discover Books
• Discover Streaming Videos
• Discover Databases, Journals, Encyclopedias
• Campus Resources
• External Resources
• POP Reading Collection This link opens in a new window

Key Journals to Explore

While there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of periodicals that have articles relevant to research on Hispanic Americans, the ones listed here are of great importance to the field, and every student should get to know them.

This is a multidisciplinary journal focused on Puerto Rican culture.

This quarterly journal publishes "original articles dealing with Southwestern history and culture from the earliest pre-history to the present." Focus is largely what is today the state of New Mexico and the area of northern Mexico.

This has been THE scholarly research journal on Chicano Studies since 1970.

This is the peer-reviewed journal of the National Association of Bilingual Education focusing on K-12 education of language minorities in the U.S. We have online access back to 1997 and print to 1992.

This is an international peer-reviewed journal that only began in 2003 but has quickly gained prominence in the field. We have online full-text access from 2003 (with an embargo on the most recent 12 months) through the Ethnic Newswatch database.

Unique Resource to the Field

Oxford Bibliographies in Latino Studies  is a unique resource for both researchers and students. According to the publisher it aims to offer " ...  an authoritative, trustworthy, and up-to-date intellectual map to this ever-changing discipline." Called the "anti-Google" by the Chronicle of Higher Education, these bibliographies try to help students and novice researchers find their way to authoritative information. Each article is reviewed for update annually, and at least 50 new articles are added each year.

Hispanic American Periodicals Index (HAPI)

This database tells where to find journal articles on Latin American topics in the social sciences and humanities from 1967 to the present.

Hispanic American Newspapers, 1808-1980

This database provides the full text of hundreds of Hispanic American newspapers (many of them bilingual) published between 1808 - 1980. Included are newspapers from California, Texas, New Mexico, New York, and many other states.

Diversity Collection

A collection of three full-text databases, namely GenderWatch, Ethnic NewsWatch, and Alt-PressWatch. GenderWatch enhances gender and women's studies, and gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) research by providing authoritative perspectives from 1970 to present. GenderWatch provides access to over 300 titles, with more than 250 in full-text, from an array of academic, radical, community and independent presses. Ethnic NewsWatch is a comprehensive full-text database of the newspapers, magazines, journals and newsletters of the ethnic, minority and native presses as well as many journals concerned with issues of race and ethnicity, with archival material back to 1985. Alt-PressWatch includes over 1.5M articles from more than 300 small sources including unique, independent voices from respected and cited grassroots newspapers, magazines, and journals covering the arts and all viewpoints across the social and political spectrum from 1970 to present.

America: History and Life with Full Text

This database covers the history and culture of the United States and Canada from prehistory to the present. With selective indexing for 1,700 journals from 1964 to the present, this database also provides full-text coverage of more than 196 journals and more than 92 books.

American Periodicals

American Periodicals Series Online (APS Online) includes digitized images of the pages of American magazines and journals published from colonial days to the dawn of the 20th century. Titles range from Benjamin Franklin's General Magazine and America's first scientific journal, Medical Repository; popular magazines such as Vanity Fair and Ladies' Home Journal; regional and niche publications; and groundbreaking journals like The Dial, Puck, and McClure's.

Oxford Reference

A collection containing over 120 dictionaries and reference titles covering a broad spectrum of subjects from general reference and language to science and medicine, and from humanities and social sciences to business and professional.

Making of America

Digital library of primary sources in American social history from the antebellum period through reconstruction. It includes approximately 16,000 books and 50,000 journal articles published in the 19th century, searchable by subject.

Statistical Abstract of the United States

The authoritative and comprehensive summary of statistics on the social, political, and economic conditions of the United States. The original source is provided so you know where to look for more in-depth data. 2013-present. The Library has the 1878-2012 editions in print.

Research Encyclopedias

Below are the research encyclopedias that all students doing research on Hispanic/Latine/x/ should know about. You should always begin your research by consulting them.

ISBN: 0313343403 Publication Date: 2012

This encyclopedia covers the oral traditions, customs, material culture, architecture, and other aspects of cultural production of the Latino population in the US. The 318 entries are presented in alphabetical order in short and longer essays, and are related to folk foods, speech, theater, saints, religion, celebrations, songs, singers and musicians, instruments, dance, architecture, trades, artists, heroes and anti-heroes, characters, beliefs, ailments and medicine, rites, sacred spaces, art, garments, children's songs and games, 21 Latin American countries, and distinguished scholars or people in folklore production. They serve as a sampling of folklore, rather than a comprehensive treatment, and include topics like alabados, baptism, adobe, chiles, hip hop, Los Lobos, mambo, milagros, romance, and the Virgin of Guadalupe. Appendices contain a table of medicinal plants and lists of films and web resources. (Publisher)

ISBN: 1558853472 Publication Date: 2006

The more than 900 entries of this single volume scholarly work by a distinguished professor of history. dictionary fill a distinct gap. Although the focus is on Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, and Cubans, there is information on other groups, including the population of the Dominican Republic. There are some high-quality black-and-white illustrations, for individuals, specific events, and rare periodicals. Includes a bibliography of both print resources and Internet sites.

ISBN: 0717258157 Publication Date: 2005-04-01

Includes 650 signed articles on a wide range of topics from general (Religion, Stereotypes) to specific (Raza Unida Party, Taos Rebellion, ). There is an entry for each state. Each article has a nice list of further readings and list of related encyclopedia articles. Appendixes include primary documents such as treaties and constitutions. Each volume has a center insert of beautiful color photographs.

ISBN: 9780816060849 Publication Date: 2008

Hispanic-American literature has a venerable history, but it has never been more important and popular than it is now. Containing more than 250 entries, Encyclopedia of Hispanic-American Literature includes those authors and works that are an integral part of the high school and college literary canon, as well as those that are historically significant or gaining a reputation in today's literary circles.

ISBN: 1440800987 Publication Date: 2014

This encyclopedia offers an introduction to the broad roots of Latino culture, including living traditions, rites of passage, folk culture, popular culture, and other forms of shared expression, encompassing high culture, such as art, film, literature, as well as street gangs, lowriders, Santeria, and hip hop culture. Entries are divided into three sections on history and origins, regional practice and traditions, and contemporary forms; most entries are about 2,000 words. The encyclopedia also includes spotlight features on historical and contemporary figures, as well as specific forms of cultural expression. It is illustrated with b&w photos, maps, and historical illustrations. Volume 1 begins with a historical overview of US Latinos, then provides entries on art, family, community, holidays, festivals and celebrations. This volume includes a detailed chronology. Volume 2 contains entries in sections on food, literature, and media, film, TV, and sports, including social media and Spanish language newspapers, radio, and television. Volume 3 offers entries in sections on music and dance, religion and spirituality, and theater and performance. (Publisher)

ISBN: 0313322155 Publication Date: 2004

This 2-volume encyclopedia has received mixed reviews. It covers Latino popular culture, Mexican-American, Cuban-American, and Puerto-Rican, in history, literature, and sports; media, film, and art; and music, ethnomusicology, and folklore. The best articles are the longer entries on music topics (e.g., salsa and cumbia) and most entries on Mexican Americans. Still, there is useful information.

ISBN: 0313304254 Publication Date: 2000

Mexican Americans, like many other Americans, have a long history of struggle for equality and civil rights. Yet only in recent decades has that history begun to be included as part of mainstream American history. Bringing together a wealth of information on the Mexican American struggle for civil rights, this authoritative encyclopedia provides factual up-to-date information on the concepts, issues, plans, legislation, court decisions, events, organizations, and people involved in that long fight. It includes such leading figures as Corky Gonzales, Hector Perez Garcia, Jovita Idar, and Alonso Perales, as well as many secondary leaders, and is rounded out with objective discussions of such topics as leadership, the movimiento, lynching, political exclusion, voting, and stereotyping. Appendices include a chronology and several basic documents critical to an understanding of the Mexican American Civil Rights struggle. (Publisher)

ISBN: 0313339708 Publication Date: 2008

This encyclopedia of Latino literature is a result of a project initiated by the Recovering the U.S. Hispanic Literary Heritage organization, and covers a wide range of works from the colonial era to around 1960, with cultural repercussions and observations reaching well into the 21st century. Editor Kanellos (U. of Houston) has brought together entries that include more than just biographical information on hundreds of noteworthy Latino authors. Important themes and topics in Hispanic art and culture are also explored in depth, such as Latino perspectives of life during wartime, aesthetic concepts in Latino literature and even how references to the Virgin of Guadalupe seem to permeate so many different Latin cultures. Contributors from throughout Latin America and the United States also comment upon the influences of different countries such as Cuba, Puerto Rico and Mexico, and how these cultural foundations affect life in America. (Publisher)

ISBN: 1558850740 Publication Date: 1994

This set is a bit dated now, but it was roundly applauded when published as "... a good model for coverage of other ethnic groups in the US multicultural society." Still, it would be an excellent place to begin reading on anything cultural or historical!

ISBN: 0253346800 Publication Date: 2006

This is a 3-volume landmark work on the contributions of latinas to the U.S. The scope and depth and scholarship are all noteworthy. In addition to biographies of both the famous and the almost unknown, there are articles on all sorts of ideas (spiritism), events (Watsonville Strike), groups (United Farm Workers), and issues (maquiladoras) examined from the perspective of the Latina experience. All articles are signed and have additional sources.

ISBN: 9780313341168 Publication Date: 2008

This 2-volume encyclopedia has an article for each US state plus the District of Columbia, ranging in length from about 10 pages to nearly 50. You get a historical overview. a list of the state's notable Latinos and information on specific cultural contributions Latinos have made in the state. Includes bibliographies and an appendix with census data for 1870-2000.

ISBN: 0313380368 Publication Date: 2012

Latino American cinema is a provocative, complex, and definitively American topic of study. This book examines key mainstream commercial films while also spotlighting often-underappreciated documentaries, avant-garde and experimental projects, independent productions, features and shorts, and more. (Publisher)

ISBN: 1107638739 Publication Date: 2011

Latinos in the New Millennium is the most current and comprehensive profile of Latinos in the United States: looking at their social characteristics, group relations, policy positions, and political orientations. The authors draw on information in the 2006 Latino National Survey (LNS), the largest and most detailed source of data on Hispanics in America. This book provides essential knowledge about Latinos, contextualizing research data by structuring discussion around many dimensions of Latino political life in the U.S. (Publisher)

ISBN: 0313316430 Publication Date: 2003

This significant work is a collaboration of Matt S. Meier, one of the founders of the Chicano studies movement and a former SCU professor of history, and Margo Gutiérrez. This is a work of serious scholarship, providing both basic and comprehensive coverage of the history of Mexican Americans.

ISBN: 0313291055 Publication Date: 1997

Profiles 127 U.S. Latinos who have made important historical or recent contributions to American society. Cuban Americans, Puerto Ricans, Mexican Americans, and others of Spanish, South American, Central American and Caribbean heritage more than one-third of them women represent all 50 states and 35 fields of endeavor, including business, government, the performing arts, fine arts, literature, education, social service, and sports. (Publisher)

ISBN: 0195156005 Publication Date: 2005

A multivolume encyclopedia on the history and experience of Latinos and Latinas in U.S. society since the early Colonial period. It includes more than 700 signed articles organized around 7 areas, each with a separate editor. Articles are of of 3 types: thematic essays on broad topics, issue essays on more specific topics and 200 biographies.

• << Previous: Discover Streaming Videos
• Next: Campus Resources >>
• Last Updated: Sep 16, 2024 9:38 AM
• URL: https://libguides.scu.edu/LatinxHeritageMonth

• Privacy Policy
• Request a proposal
• Encouragement
• Extracurriculars
• High School
• Home and Family
• Language Arts
• Seasonal and Holidays
• Special Needs
• Styles and Methods

Hispanic Heritage Month Writing Prompts

Do you use writing prompts in your homeschool? If so, be sure to bookmark this post and its list of Hispanic Heritage Month writing prompts for ages eight and up! 

I love writing. And I also love learning (and teaching!) about Hispanic heritage and culture. Together, these two topics lend themselves perfectly to writing prompts that celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. 

What is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Each year, from September 15th through October 15th, our country recognizes the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the United States and celebrates Hispanic heritage and culture.

The observance started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. But it was expanded into a month-long celebration by President Ronald Reagan 20 years later. 

Benefits of Writing Prompts for Homeschoolers

One way to celebrate this annual observance is through our home lessons. Learning about Hispanic Americans and their accomplishments is fantastic. But writing about what you’ve learned is even better! 

Sometimes, though, just knowing where to start has been the hardest part for my kids. That’s why I love writing prompts! Not only do they give our children a starting point, but they also benefit them in other ways. Using writing prompts in your homeschool lessons…

• Improves writing skills by giving them a specific topic to write about. This can help them to develop their ideas, organize their thoughts, and express themselves clearly. They are especially effective when paired with graphic organizers to support the outlining process.
• Increases creativity by encouraging them to think outside the box and come up with new and original ideas. 
• Helps our kids to learn new information by forcing them to do research on the topic they are writing about. This can help them to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world around them.
• Promotes self-expression by giving them a safe and supportive environment to share their thoughts and feelings.
• Builds confidence by giving them a sense of accomplishment when they complete a writing assignment about a topic they know little about. This can help them to feel more comfortable with their own abilities and to take on more challenging tasks in the future.

Using Writing Prompts for Nonfiction Writing

Oftentimes writing prompts are commonly used for creative writing purposes. But they are also a great tool to use with nonfiction writing.

I think that the thing to keep in mind when using writing prompts for historical or other research writing is that they work best in tandem with primary and secondary sources, videos, and other resources that our kids must read and then interpret to write their assignments. 

Where Writing Prompts Fit in the Writing Process

Writing prompts are the first step in the formal writing process. They help students get started by providing the topic. Students then continue through the writing process by: 

• writing what they know
• doing research
• taking notes
• writing a draft
• and finally, editing and proofreading.

I’ve put together a short list of writing prompts for both nonfiction and creative writing projects , as well as additional resources that pair well with Hispanic Heritage Month. If you (or your children) need ideas for topics, consider one of these!

Brief History

Write a brief history of the month-long observance. Research how it started and why it begins in the middle of the month of September. Use these free writing pages !

Write an essay about the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month. What does it mean to you to be Hispanic? What are some of the challenges and opportunities that Hispanic Americans face? Use these graphic organizers to help you arrange your facts and present them in a thoughtful manner. 

Write a short biography of a Hispanic person who has made a significant contribution to American society. This could be a political figure, an athlete, an artist, or anyone else who has made a difference. Need suggestions? Here’s my post Latinos in History Your Children Should Know with a massive list of names.

Write a poem about a Hispanic poet! As an extra challenge , write the poem in the same style that the poet would write it. Younger children can read (or listen to) one of these 6 picture books that feature Latino poets and then summarize the story .

Write a play about a historical event that impacted U.S. or world history and involved a Hispanic person or issue. This could be a play about the Delano Grape Strike , the Battle of Puebla , or the Bracero Program . 

Write a song about a famous Hispanic person, a Latin American country or city, or anything else that is important to Hispanic culture. Find inspiration by watching the performances of some famous Latin musicians, such as Tito Puente, Celiz Cruz, Selena, or Gloria Estefan, just to name a few.

If you are Hispanic, write a screenplay about a Hispanic family or community. Share your experience with others and allow them a glimpse of what makes your family or community unique!

Write a comic book about a Hispanic superhero. What is his/her background? What is their superpower, and how did they get it? Do they have an alter ego?

Graphic Novel

Write a graphic novel about a Hispanic historical event or figure. This could be a graphic novel about Simón Bolívar, the Liberator, the story of Roberto Clemente, or a celebration of Ellen Ochoa and her accomplishments.

Short Story

Write a short story and include characters of Hispanic or Latino heritage. Try to be authentic and avoid stereotypes.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. There are many other possible writing prompts for Hispanic Heritage Month. The most important thing is to be creative and to write about something that is meaningful to you.

Use Writing Prompts as a Tool

Overall, writing prompts can be a valuable tool in the writing process for homeschool families . I find that they help me as a parent to inspire and guide my children on their journey to becoming skilled writers. When paired with graphic organizers or writing pages, an entire lesson is essentially complete. This makes my job as their teacher easier, and I believe it will be for you, too!

More Writing Prompts

You may also enjoy these other themed writing prompts here on iHN for use in your homeschool!

• Top 10 Writing Prompts for Your Child’s Birthday
• Homeschool Writing Prompts for February- Ideas to Inspire Young Writers
• Groundhog Day Writing Prompts
• 20 Lucky and Creative St. Patrick’s Day Writing Prompts

Monica Olivera

About the author

Monica Olivera is an author, freelance education writer, and homeschooling mom. Her site helps Hispanic parents and homeschoolers get more involved in their children's education by providing resources, tips, and opportunities. Her education articles have appeared in numerous online sites such as NBCNews, latinamom.me, and PBSParents.

Related Posts @media (min-width: 300px){.tve-theme-28930 .content-section [data-css="tve-u-178215a38ea"].tcb-post-list #post-25799 [data-css="tve-u-178215a38f0"]{background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 143, 255, 0.08), rgba(0, 143, 255, 0.08)), url("https://assets.ihomeschoolnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15171810/Fun-National-Days-to-Celebrate-in-Your-Homeschool-Ftr.jpg") !important;}.tve-theme-28930 .content-section [data-css="tve-u-178215a38ea"].tcb-post-list #post-25799 [data-css="tve-u-178215a38ef"]:hover [data-css="tve-u-178215a38f0"]{background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 143, 255, 0.08), rgba(0, 143, 255, 0.08)), url("https://assets.ihomeschoolnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15171810/Fun-National-Days-to-Celebrate-in-Your-Homeschool-Ftr.jpg") !important;}} Fun National Days to Celebrate in Your Homeschool

Are you looking for fun national days to celebrate in your homeschool? You have come to the right place! Check out this awesome list.

Heather Gerwing

Make Homeschool Reading Comprehension Fun with Movies

For many children, reading comprehension can be a minefield of confusion.  Fortunately, there are solutions – and, amazingly, the solutions can be a lot of fun. One very fruitful and entertaining approach is to use a medium that children love, movies!

Marion Blank

5 Ways to Use Music Study for Language Arts

Grow your students’ language arts skills by incorporating music study for language arts! Here are some ways to do it and why you should!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

Email * * *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Get 50% off your first box of Home Chef! 🥙

25 Meaningful National Hispanic Heritage Month Facts

Learn and celebrate.

Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15 every year. It was started in 1968 and has become a national celebration that includes arts festivals and music events from New York to Los Angeles. How did Hispanic Heritage Month start? What famous Hispanic Americans are celebrated today? And what is this year’s theme? Find out the answers to these questions and more.

Hispanic Heritage Month Facts

The commemoration of hispanic heritage started as a weeklong event in 1968..

WeAreTeachers

President Lyndon B. Johnson officially created Hispanic Heritage Week on September 17, 1968. The idea, as Johnson explained it, was to honor the impact that people of Hispanic descent have had in the United States.

Teachers have been involved in Hispanic Heritage Month from the start.

When President Johnson created Hispanic Heritage Week, he asked teachers to create celebratory curriculum about the accomplishments of Hispanic people.

Ronald Reagan expanded Hispanic Heritage Week to a full month.

In 1988, when President Reagan was in office, Hispanic Heritage Week was expanded from a week to a month.

Hispanic Heritage Month starts on five countries’ Independence Day.

Hispanic Heritage Month starts on September 15 each year because El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua all observe their Independence Day on that date. Mexico (September 16) and Chile (September 18) also celebrate their Independence Day during Hispanic Heritage Month.

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates people who are from or have ancestors from countries where Spanish is spoken.

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates people living in the United States who have ancestors from countries where Spanish is the primary language. The term “Hispanic” was created in the 1970s after the U.S. census started.

Twenty percent of the U.S. population identifies as Hispanic.

More than 62 million people in the United States, or one in five people, identify as Hispanic.

Source: PEW Research Center

Hispanic Heritage Month always has a theme.

The theme changes each year. In 2022, the theme was Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation.

The 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month theme is Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America.

Check out the 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month tools on LinkedIn.

There are 20 Hispanic countries and one Hispanic territory.

There are 20 Hispanic countries, or countries where Spanish is the official language: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Spain, Uruguay, Venezuela. The one Hispanic territory is Puerto Rico.

President George H.W. Bush helped start Hispanic Heritage Week.

When George H.W. Bush was in the House of Representatives in 1968, he sponsored the original Hispanic Heritage Week bill. Then, during his presidency, he declared the 30-day period from September 15 to October 15 Hispanic Heritage Month, lengthening the celebration to a full month.

In the United States, Mexican Americans make up the largest Hispanic population.

Americans of Mexican descent are approximately 62% of the overall U.S. Hispanic population.

Thirteen states have populations of at least 1 million Hispanic residents.

The 13 states are: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington.

Source: Census Bureau

Twenty-five percent of children in the United States are Hispanic.

One in four children in the United States is Hispanic, and most (94%) were born in the United States.

Source: National Research Center on Hispanic Children and Families

Starting with George H.W. Bush, every U.S. president has given a proclamation acknowledging Hispanic Heritage Month.

On September 14, 1989, President George H.W. Bush was the first president to proclaim Hispanic Heritage Month. Since then, every president has given a presidential proclamation acknowledging the celebration.

Ellen Ochoa was the first Hispanic woman in space.

In 1991, Ellen Ochoa became the first Latina astronaut in space. She brought her flute to play on the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1993.

After English, Spanish is the most-spoken language in the United States.

If you include people who speak Spanish as a second language, there are more Spanish speakers in the United States than in Spain.

Sonia Sotomayor is the first Hispanic Supreme Court justice.

Sonia Sotomayor, originally from the Bronx in New York, was sworn in as the first Hispanic Supreme Court justice in 2009.

Philip Bazaar was the first Hispanic American to receive a Medal of Honor.

Bazaar was from Chile and a member of the U.S. Navy during the Civil War. He earned a Medal of Honor for bravery in 1865.

Luiz Walter Alvarez was the first Hispanic American to win the Nobel Prize in physics.

He won the prize in 1968 for discovering subatomic particles. He and his son proposed the theory that a meteor created the mass extinction of the dinosaurs.

Spanish is just one language spoken in Hispanic countries.

While Spanish is the official language in Hispanic countries, there are more than 370 other languages spoken by people across Latin America.

Famous Hispanic actress Rita Moreno is one of a few people to be a PEGOT winner.

Rita Moreno was the first Hispanic American to win an Academy Award. She has also won Peabody, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards. Her Emmy award was for her performance as a host on The Muppet Show .

Sylvia Mendez attended an “all-White” school seven years before Brown vs. Board of Education.

Sylvia Mendez was growing up in California when her parents fought to register her in a school in Westminster. The school superintendent refused, saying that Mexican Americans were “intellectually, culturally, and morally inferior.” Mendez’s parents took the district to court and won. In 1946, California schools were integrated.

Dolores Huerta coined the phrase “Si se puede.”

Dolores Huerta was a labor organizer who helped found the National Farm Workers Association with Cesar Chavez. She was the one who coined the phrase, which was used in Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign as “Yes, we can.”

Hispanic baseball player Roberto Clemente had more than 3,000 career hits.

Roberto Clemente was the first Hispanic American baseball player to win a World Series and the first Latino in the Baseball Hall of Fame. He batted 0.352 in 1970 and had more than 3,000 career hits.

Puerto Rican Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is the youngest woman to be elected to Congress.

Ocasio-Cortez was elected to the House of Representatives at age 29 to represent New York’s 14th Congressional District.

To learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month, check out When Is National Hispanic Heritage Month? (Plus Ideas To Celebrate It) .

For more articles like this, sign up for our free newsletters to find out when they’re posted .

We Are Teachers

You Might Also Like

When Is National Hispanic Heritage Month? (Plus Ideas To Celebrate It)

History, activities, books, and more. Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Hispanic Heritage Month puts diversity and culture at the forefront

Huge celebrations across the U.S. are expected to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, an annual tradition that showcases the awe-inspiring diversity and culture of Hispanic people

Huge celebrations across the U.S. are expected to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, an annual tradition that showcases the awe-inspiring diversity and culture of Hispanic people.

Celebrated each year from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, the month is a chance for many in the U.S. to learn about and celebrate the contributions of Hispanics, the country's fastest-growing racial or ethnic minority, according to the census. The group includes people whose ancestors come from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

There are more than 65 million people identified as ethnically Hispanic in the U.S., according to the latest census estimates.

Before there was National Hispanic Heritage Month, there was Hispanic Heritage Week, which was created through legislation sponsored by Mexican American U.S. Rep. Edward R. Roybal of Los Angeles and signed into law in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

The weeklong commemoration was expanded to a month two decades later, with legislation signed into law by President Ronald Reagan.

“It was clustered around big celebrations for the community,” Alberto Lammers, director of communications at the UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute said. “It became a chance for people to know Hispanic cultures, for Latinos to get to know a community better and for the American public to understand a little better the long history of Latinos in the U.S.”

The month is a way for Hispanics to showcase their diversity and culture with the support of the government, said Rachel Gonzalez-Martin, an associate professor of Mexican American and Latino Studies at the University of Texas at Austin.

Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point to coincide with the anniversary of “El Grito de Dolores,” or the “Cry of Dolores,” which was issued in 1810 from a town in central Mexico that launched that country’s war for independence from Spain.

The Central American nations of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica celebrate their independence on Sept. 15, and Mexico marks its national day on Sept. 16, the day after the cry for independence.

Also during National Hispanic Heritage Month, the South American nation of Chile observes its independence day on Sept. 18. Indigenous Peoples’ Day , previously known as Columbus Day, is observed in the U.S. on the second Monday of October.

Over the past decade, the month has grown due to the larger Latino consumer base in the U.S., Gonzalez-Martin said. Gonzalez-Martin said visible support from the federal government, including celebrations at the White House, has also made it easier for Hispanics to celebrate.

“Hispanic Heritage Month was a way in which to be Hispanic and Latino but with official blessing,” Gonzalez-Martin said. “It was a recognition of belonging and that became really powerful.”

The four-week period is about honoring the way Hispanic populations have shaped the U.S. in the past and present, Lammers said.

“It gives us a chance to acknowledge how Latinos have been part of this nation for so many centuries,” Lammers said. “I think that’s what is great about this. It has allowed us to really dig deeper and a chance to tell our stories.”

Hispanic was a term coined by the federal government for people descended from Spanish-speaking cultures. But for some, the label has a connotation of political conservatism and emphasizes a connection to Spain. It sometimes gets mistakenly interchanged with “Latino” or “Latinx.”

For some, Latino reflects their ties to Latin America. So some celebrations are referred to as Latinx or Latin Heritage Month.

Latin Americans are not a monolith. There are several identifiers for Latin Americans, depending largely on personal preference. Mexican Americans who grew up during the 1960s Civil Rights era may identify as Chicano. Others may go by their family’s nation of origin such as Colombian American or Salvadoran American.

Each culture has unique differences when it comes to music, food, art and other cultural touchstones.

From California to Florida, there will be no shortage of festivities. The celebrations tout traditional Latin foods and entertainment including, mariachi bands, folklórico and salsa lessons. The intent is to showcase the culture of Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela and other Latin countries.

Events highlighting Hispanic culture include a quinceañera fashion show in Dallas on Sept. 14, the New York Latino Film Festival, which runs from Sept. 17-22, and the Viva Tampa Bay Hispanic Heritage Festival on Sept. 28-29.

The Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., is offering a slate of activities elevating Hispanic heritage, including a celebration of the life of Celia Cruz and exhibits of art made in Mexico.

Associated Press writer Terry Tang contributed to this report.

Related Topics

• Hispanic Heritage Month

Popular Reads

College closes after threats in Springfield, Ohio

• Sep 15, 5:31 PM

DOD looking into reports of US sailor detained

• Sep 5, 3:13 PM

Kathy Bates denies she is retiring from acting

• Sep 15, 7:09 PM

What to know about Eugene Levy and his family

• Sep 15, 8:30 PM

4 dead in shooting at Georgia high school

• Sep 4, 10:47 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

People Beauty Awards: Winners across skin care, hair, makeup — from $10

• Share this —

• Watch Full Episodes
• Read With Jenna
• Inspirational
• Relationships
• TODAY Table
• Newsletters
• Start TODAY
• Shop TODAY Awards
• Citi Concert Series
• Listen All Day

Follow today

More Brands

• On The Show
• TODAY Plaza

What is Hispanic Heritage Month and why do we celebrate it? What you need to know

Every year, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.

While it's important to uplift the voices, culture, history and contributions of the Hispanic and Latin o communities year-round, the U.S. government formally designated the month to spotlight the contributions made by "American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America,” according to the  official government website.

Hispanic Heritage Month has been celebrated for decades. However, questions still swirl like "What is Hispanic Heritage Month?" and "Why is it split between two months?"

Ahead of highlight achievements by Latinos and their culture, here is everything to know

The history of Hispanic Heritage Month

Before it was a month-long celebration it was just one week. Rep. Edward R. Roybal and Rep. Henry B. Gonzales championed a bill for a week-long observance, Hispanic Heritage Week.

“The bill was introduced at a moment of political radicalization by young Mexican-Americans demanding fair access to resources, including government services and education,” Frances Negron-Muntaner, an English and Comparative Literature professor at Columbia University, said. 

“Although Hispanic Heritage Month officially began as a state project, it was also a response to decades of Latino activists, particularly during the 1960s, whose demands included recognition of their culture, history and rights.”

President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the proposed legislation into law in 1968. 

It wasn't until two decades later, on Aug. 17, 1988, Hispanic Heritage Week became legally expanded to a 30-day observance from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 under President Ronald Reagan. Hispanic Heritage Month was first proclaimed or publicly announced to the American people by President George H.W. Bush in 1989 . 

Why is Hispanic Heritage Month split between September and October?

People may be wondering why the heritage month is celebrated in the middle of two months. There's a good explanation for that. Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point for Hispanic Heritage Month because it is the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores or “ Grito de Dolores," according to Carlos Olave, head of the Hispanic Reading Room at the Library of Congress. This event marked the start of the Mexican War of Independence and resulted in freedom for the New Spain Colony (now Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua) in 1821.

Mexico, most Central American countries and Chile commemorate their independence from Spain on Sept. 15, Sept. 16, and Sept. 18, respectively.

Columbus Day happens to fall during Hispanic Heritage Month, but instead of honoring the controversial explorer, Spanish-speaking countries celebrate “ Día de la Raza ” or “Day of the Race” on Oct. 12. This holiday, which bookends Hispanic Heritage Month in the U.S., recognizes the blend of indigenous and European or mestizo heritage across Spanish-speaking countries.

How Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated today

Just like there’s no one-size-fits-all Latino or Hispanic experience, there’s no one way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

“Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month can range from hosting or attending cultural festivals to volunteering to help Latino communities in need,” Emily Key, Director of Education at the Smithsonian Latino Center in Washington, D.C., told TODAY.

Museums across the country, including The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino , offer programs and resources to honor Latino and Hispanic communities. Throughout the month, check out museums and libraries near you to see if they're hosting similar events. The best part: They're often free.

In Washington D.C., the Library of Congress will commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month throughout most of its 20 public reading rooms with blogs, performances, workshops, exhibits, screenings, lectures and special events. The Hispanic Reading Room will release 50 audio recordings by Latino writers from its PALABRA Archive, a collection of approximately 800 original audio recordings of 20th and 21st century Luso-Hispanic (a reference to regions once ruled by Portugal or Spain) poets and writers reading from their works.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month at home by trying out traditional recipes from Latino and Hispanic chefs. Or make it a family affair by reading one — or all — of these children’s books at bedtime. For an adult reading session, consider a book from this curated list of Latin o authors , including the  March 2021  Read With Jenna book club pick. 

But if you feel like showing support with your wallet, then check out this list of Latin o -owned beauty brands to shop now and forever.   

Stephanie L. King is a city girl who now lives in New Jersey’s bear country. The married mother of two has never met a homemade chocolate chip cookie or nap she didn’t like. She and her beloved husband enjoy making up random songs for their kids and having family dance parties in their kitchen. She’s an educator, writer, editor and poet whose work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Patriot-News and OprahDaily.com. 

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Hispanic heritage month.

Designed by the National Park Service

September 15 to October 15 is celebrated nationwide as National Hispanic Heritage Month. It traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans. More than 500 years of Hispanic and Latino history and heritage can be found in national parks or shared through National Park Service programs and partners in communities across the country.

Hispanic generally refers to a person who is from, or a descendant of someone who is from, a Spanish-speaking country.

Latino, Latina, Latine, or Latinx, generally refers to a person who is from, or a descendant of someone who is from, a country in Latin America. It is often a personal choice which term is used by an individual. There are a lot of connections between Latino and Hispanic American identity in the US, so National Hispanic American Heritage Month celebrations often include Latino Americans as well.

During this month and throughout the year, we, and our partners, share history, heritage, and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino Americans of past and present. Join the conversation on social media by sharing your own inspiration and learning more about Hispanic and Latino heritage by using #HispanicHeritageMonth and #EncuentraTuParque .

Find History and Heritage All Year

Discover stories and cultural heritage shared in national parks and communities across the country.

This theme study for students, teachers, and historic preservation professionals discusses various topics of Latino culture.

Find distance learning opportunities, lesson plans, and other educational material about history and heritage for all age groups.

During the third week of September, everyone is invited to celebrate Latino stewardship and enjoyment of the great outdoors.

Share your favorite memories and experiences from your visits to parks.

Comparte tus mejores recuerdos y experiencas en tu visita a tu parque.

Astrid and Franklin bridged poetry, art, science, and culture together in a poem inspired by Florrisant Fossil Beds National Monument.

Latino Heritage Internship Program interns created artwork of park places, stories, and experiences that inspired them.

Follow Ranger Yvette's journey from teacher to director of education at Everglades National Park, a place very special to her.

Featured Stories

Hispanic and Latino National Park Service staff are "proud of our past, embracing our future".

The Oíste? podcast series takes listeners on a rhythmic journey through the world of salsa.

For Hispanic Heritage Month, Ranger Lili shares fascinating history from national parks.

We are a diverse group of people. We share the beautifully complex history of a conflict and resolution between two countries.

Three university students from Mexico traveled to Cape Cod National Seashore for an exchange of conservation ideas.

Explore places LGBTQ Latinos came together, formed groups, and created a deeper sense of what it means to be both Latino and LGBTQ.

A Continuing Tradition of Service

Hispanic and Latino Americans have shaped the National Park Service since its beginning in 1916. The tradition continues today with Hispanic and Latino Americans working as employees , volunteers , interns , and partners in many career fields of the National Park Service, including natural and cultural resource management, law enforcement, interpretation, administration, and much more.

Left image Credit: (Courtesy of Nicole Segnini)

Right image Credit: (NPS Photo)

Inspired by her family's trips to national parks as a kid, Nicole always had a passion for the great outdoors. Now she is beginning her career journey in the National Park Service in communications through the Latino Heritage Internship Program encouraging others to come out to enjoy their public lands, be involved in stewardship, and also consider a career with us. Start your journey— work for us !

Learn about George Melendez Wright's lasting legacy of natural resource management in national parks.

Join Jhulian Gutierrez for a conversation with Latino leaders in the National Park Service as he begins his career.

The Latino Heritage Internship Program provides internship opportunities for young adults in a variety of career fields.

The Mosaics in Science Internship Program provides hands-on experience in natural resource management and research.

Show 10 40 per page

Park Websites en Español

Explore parks in Spanish! Several parks have created Spanish-language websites to help visitors plan their trips or learn about their park.

Once the site of an international border dispute, this park in Texas celebrates the cultures and relationship of Mexico and United States.

The distinct desert ecosystems of the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet in this park in southern California.

Cultures converged at sites on the Oregon and Washington border where explorers found their way to the Pacific Coast.

Mount Rainier, an active volcano in Washington, is surrounded by ancient forests, subalpine meadows, and river and lakes.

Kids Activities

Children of all ages are welcome to participate in these activities specifically designed for them! Learn about Latino and Hispanic history, such as early Spanish settlers, and how natural and man-made resources affected the culture of New Mexico, become a virtual ranger, and more!

Last updated: September 15, 2024

• Help Center
• On-Demand Demo

Easily Incorporate Hispanic Heritage Into Your Writing Instruction All Year

Hispanic Heritage Month spotlights the importance of bringing the rich history of Hispanic and Latino Americans into your classroom throughout the year. We’ve put together a collection of assignments that focus on helping students explore Hispanic heritage by learning about historical places, people, music, poetry, and culture. 

In this collection you’ll find assignments that prompt students to write a descriptive poem inspired by historical images, research and write about historical figures with included biographical videos, analyze poetry by America’s first Hispanic Poet Laureate, and more! With 19 assignments for grades 3-12, you’ll find assignments with student-friendly rubrics that help you bolster your social studies instruction all year long.

Assignments for Elementary School

• Descriptive Poem Based on Historical Images
• Write a Short Biography of Celia Cruz
• Informational Report on South American Countries
• Write a Short Biography of Sonia Sotomayor
• Explore Latino Music and Write an Opinion Paragraph About Your Favorite Song
• Write a Short Biography of César Chávez

Assignments for Middle School

• Informational Report on Hispanic Heritage Month
• Write a Short Biography of Gabriel García Márquez
• Persuasive Letter About National Parks Hispanic Heritage Sites
• Write a Short Biography of Roberto Clemente
• Write a Poem About Immigration
• Write a Short Biography of Frida Khalo

Assignments for High School

• Write a Short Biography of the Mirabal Sisters
• Write a Short Biography of Pablo Neruda
• Write a Short Biography of Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz
• Analyze Poem by former U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Filipe Herrera

Additional Social Studies Assignments

If you’re looking for additional social studies material, you’ll find many more assignments in our social studies collection that focus on culture, history, and civics, with an emphasis on highlighting diverse historical figures. Many assignments include readings or videos from trusted sources like KQED, and focus on both historical and current events.

To explore social studies, simply navigate to the collection from the Curricular Resources category in Writable.

Are you new to Writable or curious to learn more? Create a free teacher account , check out our pricing , schedule a personalized demo , or Join the Writable Educators Facebook Community

Related Articles

Explore Writable Assignments

Learn how to access 1000+ customizable assignments with 300+ readings in Writable.

Assignments , Professional Development

15 Everyday Ways to Use High 5 Assignments

Get your students thinking about and responding to what’s happening in your classroom right now with Writable’s new High 5…

Assignments , Features , Tips

Black History Teaching Resources

In honor of Black History Month we’ve collected some of our favorite Writable assignments about or inspired by Black American…

Assignments , Events , Teaching

Elementary Classrooms Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with 10 Inspiring Texts

Olivia Franklin

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with texts elementary students will love.

To help pay tribute to amazing Hispanic authors, poets, and social activities, we put together a collection of texts to use during Hispanic Heritage Month with your students. These texts will help build students' writing skills and reading comprehension.

“ Sí Se Puede: The Legacy of Cesar Chavez ” by Carlos Lossada (3rd Grade)

Cesar Chavez was an American civil rights leader who is known for organizing and advocating for farm workers. This text provides an overview of Chavez’s life, beliefs, and accomplishments.

After reading, have students discuss why Chavez thought working together is the way to gain real power.

“ Domino Sundays ” by Vivian Fernandez (3rd Grade)

In this story, Yolanda and her abuelo , or grandfather, are going to the park where she watches him play dominoes each Sunday. Dominoes is a game that has cultural significance in many Hispanic communities. This Sunday, Yolanda is going to be Abuelo’s partner for the first time. This is a great text for teaching students about overcoming mistakes and trying your best. After students read, have them engage in Discussion Question #3: “Dominoes are a special part of Abuelo and Yolanda’s community. What are some games or other things that are a special part of your community?”

" When To Eat Pan Dulce... / Cuándo Se Come Pan Dulce... " by René Saldaña Jr.

Pan dulce is a traditional sweet bread from Mexico. In this poem, written by Mexican-American poet René Saldaña Jr., the speaker tells about the different kinds of pan dulce cooked by their grandmother.

After reading, you can lead a conversation about the intersection of food and culture. Have students answer Discussion Question 1: " Pan dulce is special to the speaker of the poem. What are some foods that are really special to you? When do you eat them? Do you have any special memories connected to these foods?"

" I Will Be A Chemist: Mario José Molina / Voy a Ser Químico: Mario José Molina " by Alma Flor Ada (4th Grade)

Mario José Molina is a famous Mexican chemist who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1995. In this poem by Alma Flor Ada, the speaker shares how Molina became interested in chemistry.

After reading, show students the Related Media video "Dr. Mario Molina" to give students more background on this influential Mexican-American chemist.

“ Bilingual / Bilingüe ” by Alma Flor Ada (4th Grade)

In this poem by Cuban-American author Alma Flor Ada, the speaker shares about being bilingual. The poem is written first in English and then in Spanish.

As students read, have them take notes on the speaker's point of view on being bilingual. Then, ask students their point of view on being bilingual. Are any of your students bilingual? What language would they like to learn? Do they think it is important to learn multiple languages? How do their opinions align with or differ from the speaker's opinions?

“ The Child ” by J. Patrick Lewis (4th Grade)

In this poem, the speaker describes the experiences of Sylvia Mendez, a Mexican-Puerto Rican civil rights activist. As a child, Mendez played an important role in desegregating California schools.

As students read, have them take notes on Sylvia’s perception of the school she will attend.

“ Four Skinny Trees ” by Sandra Cisneros (4th Grade)

Sandra Cisneros is an influential Mexican-American author, most known for her 1984 novel The House on Mango Street. In this excerpt from the book, Esperanza, a 12-year old Chicana girl growing up in Chicago, compares herself to the trees outside her house.

After students read, play the Related Media video “#ArtIsJustice: Sandra Cisneros on How Art Changes Life,” and ask them: “What does Cisneros mean when she says: ‘If you don’t see yourself reflected in the story, you can’t imagine you making any difference in the world’? Do you agree with her? Why or why not? Do you see yourself reflected in the story?”

" Border Kid " by David Bowles (4th Grade)

David Bowles is a Mexican-American author from South Texas, growing up on the border between the United States and Mexico. In this poem, a boy spends a special day with his father crossing the bridge into Mexico.

After reading, discuss the theme of the poem with students. Then, ask students Discussion Question 1: "In the poem, the boy visits a town across the United States' border in Mexico. How might being a 'border kid' affect one's identity, or the way someone views themselves? Is it possible for someone to be part of two (or more) different countries, cultures, or groups? Are you or anyone you know part of more than one culture?"

“ The Challenge ” by Gary Soto (5th Grade)

Gary Soto is a poet, novelist, and memoirist with Mexican-American heritage. In this short story, a boy tries to impress the new girl at his school. This is a great text to teach character development.

Students can take notes on the different feelings José experiences as he tries to get Estela’s attention. Then, they can use those notes to answer the short response: “How does José’s attitude toward Estela change during the story?”

“ Eleven ” by Sandra Cisneros (5th Grade)

In this short story about growing up by influential author Sandra Cisneros, a young girl named Rachel thinks about the meaning of her age. Rachel has just turned eleven, but feels like she is much younger when she has an embarrassing interaction with her teacher.   After students read, play the Related Media video “Sandra Cisneros, Reading, 8 Oct. 1996.” In this video, Cisneros reads “Eleven,” and you can facilitate a conversation with students about Cisneros’ tone and how it contributes to the development of Rachel’s character and perspective.

Looking for more great texts to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with your students? Explore our Latinx Authors and History text set !

You can also sign up for one of our free Hispanic Heritage Month webinars , where we will give more relevant text recommendations and teach you how to assign lessons on CommonLit.

Chat with CommonLit

CommonLit’s team will reach out with more information on our school and district partnerships.

Sunday marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. What it means and how to celebrate it

Sunday marks the start of  Hispanic Heritage Month , a celebration honoring the contributions and histories  of Americans  with roots in countries including Mexico, Venezuela and Cuba.

The observance spans two months honoring  a long-established community  whose influence is felt throughout the country.

“It celebrates a vast community of Americans who have made invaluable contributions to the United States for over 300 years,” the executive director of the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico Margie Huerta said. “Hispanic and Latinx people are making important contributions to American arts, culture and humanities, and all aspects of society, every single day.”

Here's what you need to know:

Who started Hispanic Heritage Month?

From newly arrived immigrants to native communities that have called these lands home for centuries, the community has gained considerable cultural and political clout since the occasion began in 1968 as a weeklong commemoration under President Lyndon Johnson. The legislation was sponsored by California Rep.  Edward Roybal  of Los Angeles, an Albuquerque native whose family moved to California when he was 6.

In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed into law a bill sponsored by Illinois Sen. Paul Simon expanding National Hispanic Heritage Week to 30 days. Reagan used the moment to praise Hispanics and their cultural pillars of church and school, but most of all to extol the virtues of "familia."

“As the great poet Octavio Paz has said: ‘In Hispanic morals, the true protagonist is the family,’” Reagan said  in his address . "I fear that too often, in the mad rush of modern American life, some people have not learned the great lesson of our Hispanic heritage: the lesson of family and home and church and community.”

When is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month is between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15.

The month’s starting date is significant because it’s the independence day for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile and Belize mark their celebrations on Sept. 16, Sept. 18 and Sept. 21, respectively.

Starting in the middle of the month also encompasses, on the celebration’s latter end, Oct. 12. Known as Columbus Day in the United States, the day is referred to in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries as Día de la Raza, honoring the countries and peoples conquered by Spain and other European nations.

How is Hispanic Heritage Month celebrated?

Gabriela Baeza Ventura, a professor of Spanish at the University of Houston, previously told USA TODAY that Hispanic Heritage Month pays respect to a population with deep roots in the United States and a wide range of ancestral origins.

“It’s a wonderful and important opportunity for the general public to visualize the contributions and presence of a community that has been in this territory since before the U.S. was formed as a nation,” Ventura said. “It’s a community that encompasses so many different nations, so many registers of Spanish and so many experiences.”

Though many celebrations revolve around fiestas, Mexican or Latin American food and popular images of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and Day of the Dead, Ventura said it’s time to commemorate other notable figures, both historical and those in our midst.

She cited Jovida Idar, an early 20th-century Mexican American journalist and activist from Laredo, Texas, whose image will be minted as part of the American Women Quarters Program, as well as Colombia-born Lina Hidalgo, who at age 27 became the first woman – and first Latina – elected as county judge in Texas’ Harris County in 2018.

“We’re seeing other characters come to life,” Ventura said.

Teaching During Hispanic Heritage Month: 13 Short Stories To Share With Your Students

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by sharing any (or all) of these 13 short stories with your students. Written by Hispanic authors, these short stories are the perfect way to honor and celebrate the work of Hispanic and Latin American writers.

The Importance of Teaching During Hispanic Heritage Month– And Beyond.

Whether you’ve stumbled upon this article in the midst of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th-October 15th) or are planning ahead, I applaud you for your commitment to inclusivity and culturally responsive teaching.

Let’s face it– teachers have a unique opportunity and, some would say, obligation to prepare students for the world beyond the walls of any classroom or school. That means looking beyond state standards and class curricula and holding a mirror to the diverse world in which we live.

It also means taking advantage of the opportunity to expose students to a wide variety of American perspectives. After all, whether you call it the great melting pot or salad bowl, there’s no denying the mix of perspectives that come together to paint a picture of the American experience.

Regardless of how diverse (or not) your district and classroom is, the truth is, culturally responsive teaching promotes perspective, tolerance, empathy, and overall kindness both in and out of the classroom. And I think we could all agree we could use more of those in modern times, right? (Right.)

Using Short Stories To Teach During Hispanic Heritage Month.

So, if you’re looking to expand beyond the classic literary canon and include more Hispanic voices in your classroom, short stories are the perfect way to start. From Sandra Cisneros, the beloved author of The House on Mango Street, to the highly relatable Gary Soto, I’ve put together a list of 13 of my favorite short stories (and authors!) to teach during Hispanic Heritage Month. Including any of these 13 short stories or authors in your classroom is a great way for you and your students to celebrate the literary contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. And while these authors deserve a place in our bookshelves and curriculums all year long, this month is the perfect opportunity to dig a little deeper into these author’s literary works and the experiences and perspectives they represent.

Afterall, literature is often used as a way to help students hold a mirror to their experiences and the world they know. But opportunities like Hispanic Heritage Month serve as a reminder that literature can also open students’ eyes to relevant perspectives they may not understand. In that case, let these short stories serve as a window into the diverse American experience.

So,without further adieu, read on for a glimpse into my favorite authors and short stories perfect for bringing a touch of Hispanic and Latino heritage into your classroom.

Short Stories To Teach During Hispanic Heritage Month By Sandra Cisneros

While Sandra Cisneros has penned several beautiful short stories perfect to teach during Hispanic Heritage Month, she is best known for her popular coming-of-age novel, The House On Mango Street. (Haven’t read it? I highly recommend adding it to your list– or at least your classroom library!) As a dual citizen of the United States and Mexico, Cisneros’ short fiction reflects very real experiences and emotions of those feeling a sense of “otherness.” While she most certainly pays homage to the Hispanic American experience, there is plenty to be read between the lines to promote self-to-text connections among students of various ages and backgrounds.

• “My Name” by Sandra Cisneros

Okay, you caught me. Technically this is a vignette from Cisneros’ novel, The House on Mango Street . However, “My Name” is often taught as a short story due to its highly relatable undertone and powerful message. In the story, protagonist Esperanza uses her name to show the stark contrast between Mexican and American culture. Furthermore, the story represents her experience trying to find her place in each. As you read, have students pay attention to how the narrator toes the line between respecting her heritage and revealing her desire to pave her own path.

“My Name” calls to attention a big question around identity: What’s in a name? After reading Cisneros’ vignette and exploring Esperanza’s thoughts regarding her name, engage students in a conversation regarding their own identities. In fact, you can have students write their own version of “My Name” to explore and unpack the many facets of their identity. How fun!

• “Eleven” by Sandra Cisneros

At first glance, “Eleven” appears to be a simple story about a traumatic event experienced by a young girl on her birthday– in class of all places. (Tap into your 11-year-old self and I’m sure you can relate to the horror.) However, upon a deeper look, this story reveals a struggle of facing unjust assumptions and stigmas. Therefore, this story is a great opportunity to challenge students to consider additional struggles certain people face on top of the universal growing pains. (I’m looking at you pre-teen awkwardness.)

Despite the protagonist’s young age, Cisneros tells the story with a poignant maturity, shining a light on its deeper meaning.  Furthermore, the use of descriptions such as “pennies in a tin Band-Aid Box,” “runaway balloons,” “smell[ing] like cottage cheese,” provide a great look into Cisneros’ skillful use of literary devices like similes and metaphors. Thus, Cisneros juxtaposes child-like words with mature emotions, creating a unique story with the ability to pack a punch.

• “Barbie-Q” by Sandra Cisneros

Another short, but powerful piece by Cisneros, “Barbie-Q” can be interpreted in many ways. One thing not up for debate, however, is the stark contrast between the ragged dolls the narrator plays with and the idealistic and “new” Barbies attained by other girls. Students can dive into this tale, looking at the themes of economic disparity, gender identity, or stereotypes. Afterall, Barbie herself very well may stand as a representation of “white” beauty unattainable by the story’s narrator.

Therefore, Cisneros’ short story opens the door for a conversation around a sense of “otherness” popular toys and products can inherently promote. This can be a great way to discuss the idea of “otherness” and the ways in which society portrays certain identities more than others. Thus, leading to one of the story’s most pertinent questions: in desiring these dolls, are the girls being led down a path of devaluing their identity or do they show a sense of pride and acceptance? Or, perhaps, in the innocence of childhood, are the girls unaware of the contrasts at all? (Let the conversation commence!)

*Teacher tip: Due to an instance of inappropriate language, I recommend reading through this text before deciding to share it with your students.

Short Stories To Teach During Hispanic Heritage Month By Gary Soto

As a child of working-class Mexican American parents, Gary Soto’s works often reflect his experiences growing up in the poverty-stricken barrios of Fresno, California. Inspired by his own struggles, Soto aims to reach young readers who may be experiencing something similar– regardless of race or ethnicity. In fact, his universal themes and conversational language are what make his stories so relatable to all. Therefore, while many of his story’s characters and conflicts reflect his own as a Mexican-American, his works are remarkably relatable to students of all ages and backgrounds.

• “The Jacket“ by Gary Soto

Not only is Soto’s “The Jacket” a powerful short story, but it’s a great way to introduce the genre of memoir into your classroom. Rooted in real events and feelings from his childhood, Soto’s story serves as both a personal reflection and a unifying tale. By exploring popular coming-of-age themes such as identity and insecurity, Soto lays the foundation not only for a detailed analysis, but impactful connections and conversations as well.

As hinted at by the title, Soto’s childhood jacket plays a leading role in this story. (Some may call it a main character.) Soto skillfully employs the symbolism of the jacket to portray his family’s poverty and the impact it had on his self-image and confidence. Through the short story, it is clear Soto blames the “enemy” jacket for his bad luck during his middle school experience. However, on a deeper level, students are able to unpack what that really means. As they track the symbolism of the jacket, have them consider the ways in which a physical object can reflect an emotional experience in this story and beyond.

• “Seventh Grade” by Gary Soto

Perhaps one of Soto’s most widely taught and most relatable stories is “Seventh Grade.” Following Victor and his attempt to connect with his crush, Soto crafts a highly relatable coming-of-age story. (Yep. It’s kind of his thing.) A story where the protagonist is searching for a sense of belonging and acceptance? Relatable. Attempting to change oneself to fit in or impress others? Yep. In other words, students will cringe and laugh as they recall their own pre-teen days while reading, sympathizing for Victor on a whole new level. Additionally, “Seventh Grade” is an excellent opportunity to dive into Soto’s skillful characterization. By asking students to track how Victor changes over the course of the story, they can pay close attention to the vivid character descriptions and overall character development. Have them take a look at what Victor says and how he acts and responds to others as a way to reveal his character.

• “Mother and Daughter” by Gary Soto

Another tale juxtaposing the struggles of adolescence and poverty, this short story follows the relationship between Mrs. Moreno and her daughter Yollie. Having come to America from Mexico, the family struggles with poverty. And, despite Mrs. Moreno’s dedication to her daughter’s happiness, Yollie easily gets caught up in her desires to have things they cannot afford. (Why? In search of acceptance, of course.) Therefore, regardless of her acknowledgement that their poverty isn’t her mother’s fault, Yollie struggles with the impact their financial situation has on her self-image and confidence. Soto crafts a beautiful story showing the lengths a mother will go to provide for her child, despite limitations and financial hardships. While Yollie spends much of the story wanting what she cannot have, her mother is simply doing her best to provide for her family. Students can track the mother-daughter relationship as well as Soto’s use of the “black dress” to represent Yollie’s identity struggles.

Short Stories To Teach During Hispanic Heritage Month By Julia Alvarez

Despite being born in New York City, Julia Alvarez spent the first ten years of her life in her parent’s native country, the Dominican Republic. However, they were forced to return to the city due to political unrest in the country. With that said, it’s no wonder that the immigrant experience of navigating two cultures is at the center of much of her work. Whether writing poetry, short stories, or novels, Alvarez’s writing often reflects the experiences and struggles facing stereotypes, alienation, and prejudice.

• “Snow” by Julia Alvarez

On the surface, “Snow” is a story about a young immigrant girl named Yolanda experiencing New York snow for the first time. However, upon a closer look, Alvarez captures the emotional struggle of adapting to a new culture, especially during a time of great turmoil. As if learning a new culture isn’t a challenge enough, Alvarez highlights how the transition goes beyond the obvious elements of finding ones in a new environment.

Immigrating to the U.S. during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Yolanda must navigate learning a new language during the wide-spread fear of a nuclear attack. After learning terms like “nuclear bomb” and “radioactive” fallout alongside everyday terms such as “laundromat” and “subway,” Yolanda mistakenly (and fearfully) believes snow to be the ashy fallout from a nuclear bomb. Thus, Alvarez calls attention to the layers of difficulties when it comes to adjusting to not only a new language, but a new culture as a whole. Upon reading this short story, consider asking students to reflect on the impact of Yolanda’s first-person narration in Alvarez’s underlying message.

• “Names” by Julia Alvarez

What’s in a name, you ask? Reading Alvarez’s “Names” can certainly provide a conversation-worthy answer. (And, perhaps, would be great to pair with Cisneros’ “My Name.”) Written as a reflection of assimilation to “Americanized” names over the course of her life, Alvarez employs her literary talents to express the difficulties of fitting in while remaining prideful in your identity as an immigrant. (Or any outsider for that fact.) Thus, Alvarez shows the paradox of her pride in her family and their heritage and her desire to belong.

Alvarez begins the story with a powerful anecdote about arriving in New York City and having her Dominican family name mispronounced, setting the stage for the rest of the piece. As students search the text for other anecdotes, ask them to analyze the great impact Alvarez’s experiences with her name have had on her sense of self. The story will hold your attention until the final lines, where you can challenge students to unpack how those final lines reveal a sense of Alvarez’s ongoing duality.

• “My First Free Summer” by Julia Alvarez

Most of the other stories on this list take place in America. However, “My First Free Summer” primarily takes place in the Dominican Republic. The story leads up to Alvarez and her family’s move to America. A powerful memoir detailing her experience of getting to America, Alvarez gives a more historical look into the immigrant experience.  “We raced off, wondering how to fit the contents of our Dominican lives into four small suitcases,” Alvarez writes, emphasizing a sense of “otherness” experienced by those preparing to assimilate to a new culture. And yes, the story is written from a child’s perspective. However, a sense of innocence is nearly lost as Alvarez details the moment at the airport when her parents’ sense of “terror ” became her own.

While it could be said that this “free summer” is a symbol of her freedom from summer school, it can also be representative of her freedom from a harsh dictatorship. However, students can spend time diving into the contrasting senses of gaining freedom and losing a sense of belonging. Perhaps they too can relate to a time where freedom came at the cost of comfort.

Other Powerful Short Stories To Teach During Hispanic Heritage Month

• “American History” by Judith Ortiz Cofer

Having spent much of her childhood split between her native Puerto Rico and America, Cofer’s “American History” beautifully captures her experience with cultural isolation and its impact on one’s identity. Written from the perspective of 14-year-old Puetro Rican immigrant Elena, the story outlines her struggles fitting in in the face of stereotypes and stigmas. While Elena attempts to befriend her new neighbor, Cofer shows how easily stereotypes and stigmas can get in the way. WHile this struggle appears to make up most of the story, the final punch comes right at the very end. In the wake of President JFK’s assassination, Elena struglges to find a true connection to the American tragedy.

Cofer does an incredible job using Elena and her experiences to express the identity struggles she and several other immigrants faced during the 60s. Upon taking a  closer look at Cofer’s descriptions and Elena’s reactions to her neighbor’s judgmental and dismissive attitude, students can have a deeper understanding of the impact of such instances on one’s identity.

• “The Scholarship Jacket” by Marta Salinas

First published in 1986, Salinas’ “The Scholarship Jacket” continues to be widely read in the secondary classroom. As a Mexican American herself, Salinas channels the perspective of a young Mexican American girl facing a heartbreaking injustice at school.

While hard-working Martha wants nothing more than to earn the school’s “Scholarship Jacket,” issues of racism, politics, and poverty get in the way.

Aside from discussing the story’s powerful theme of injustice, students can dive into Salinas’ skillful writing. Written in the first person, the story provides unique insight into the narrator’s experience. Have students take notes on how Salinas employs descriptive language and word choice to paint a stronger picture of Martha’s perspective throughout the story.

• “A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings” by Gabriel García Márquez

Most often recognized for his novel One Hundred Years of Solitude , the late Gabriel García Márquez is known for his magical realism. While magical realism is a popular genre among Latin American authors, it’s known as the signature style of Colombian-born Márquez. Perhaps the most complicated text on the list, this story is the perfect example of the genre. The story follows the relationship between a struggling family and an angel-like old man– despite his disheveled appearance, that is. However, over the course of the story, Marguez skillfully uses juxtapositions to highlight that the only thing getting in the way of a miraculous life is man’s inability to see the beauty in what’s before us.

With folklore and storytelling playing imperative roles in Hispanic culture, students can use this story to understand and appreciate how magical realism blends hispanic culture with literary norms. As they read, ask students to track the fairy-tale-like descriptions employed by Márquez. Follow up with a discussion on how those elements add to the overall tone and theme of the story.

• “Sol Painting, Inc.” by Meg Medina

Meg Medina is a Cuban American writer whose stories focus on how a person’s family, culture, and heritage influence them. This story teaches different points of view the characters can have in a situation. It also touches on social issues such as a female wanting to be in a trade career. It goes into race issues with the family being Cuban in a white area.

“Sol Painting Inc.” is about a 12-year-old girl named Merci who wants to grow up and run her father’s painting business even though her mother does not approve of this dream. In exchange for his children’s tuition at a fancy private school, Merci’s father agrees to paint the gymnasium and a few classrooms. Merci’s brother is embarrassed by this deal and he is ashamed of his father’s painting business. Tensions grow even higher when some girls from the school carelessly damage the paint job the family had just completed.

Teaching During Hispanic Heritage Month: Beyond the Short Story

Why stop at short stories? Whether you’re looking to dig deeper into HIspanic voices or to simply to add titles to your classroom library, be sure to check out the following titles your students are sure to enjoy:

• I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika Sánchez is a fantastic read that secondary students will find both touching and humorous.
• As mentioned earlier in this post, Sandra Cisneros’ classic The House on Mango Street  is well read (and top ranking) for a reason.
• Dive deeper into Julia Alvarez’s escape from the Dominican dictatorship with her historical novel In the Time of the Butterflies .
• The Book of Unknown American by Cristina Henriquez is both beautiful and tragic, offering a glimpse into the lives of immigrant teens and their families.
• Between it’s pop culture references and poignant prose, ​​The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz is a story students will find relatable, humorous, and all around enjoyable. (Plus, it’s a great opportunity to see magical realism in full swing.)

A Final Word on Teaching Short Stories During Hispanic Heritage Month.

By no means is this an exhaustive list. In fact, some might say it barely scratches the surface. Yes, I invite you to bring any (or all) of these authors and titles into your classroom. However, I also encourage you to find even more Hispanic stories and voices to share with your students during Hispanic Heritage Month (and beyond). And if you do, I encourage you to share them with other teachers.  Together we can show the students of today and tomorrow just how diverse the American experience is. Remember, the goal isn’t simply to check these titles off the list. It’s an opportunity to pay respect to the many powerful and impactful voices of great American literature. And while the short stories mentioned above are fantastic reads, they open the door for even more powerful conversations that can help shape our students and the future they will lead.

1 thought on “Teaching During Hispanic Heritage Month: 13 Short Stories To Share With Your Students”

I found your list because I was trying to find out how to get great books like this for the classroom. Still looking for books but now I have so many more titles that I need!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Entertainment Celebrity Movies TV Music Books Cover Stories 2023 Reading Challenge
• Fashion Fashion News Celebrity Style Street Style Clothing & Accessories Fashion Week Fashion Shopping Planet Style Bridal Edit On the Runway
• Beauty Beauty News Celebrity Beauty Skin Care Makeup Hair Nails Beauty Reviews Beauty Shopping All the Range
• Wellness Fitness Nutrition & Food Health Sex & Relationships Astrology Identity Wellness Shopping For the W Going For the Goal
• Family Parenting Pregnancy Babies Toddlers Back to Fuel Study Haul Thanks For Coming
• Must Have Celebrity Style Fashion Shopping Beauty Shopping Home Shopping Tech Shopping Parenting Shopping Wellness Shopping Fitness Shopping
• Juntos Entertainment Fashion & Beauty Wellness Tell Me Más Salud y Belleza
• Video Entertainment Fashion Beauty Class Fitsugar Food Dance Fitsugar
• Login / Register

• Health Paper Topics Topics: 596
• Diabetes Research Topics Topics: 278
• Health Promotion Paper Topics Topics: 176
• Hypertension Essay Topics Topics: 155
• Heart Failure Essay Topics Topics: 83
• Heart Disease Topics Topics: 150
• Infection Essay Topics Topics: 150
• Melanoma Essay Topics Topics: 60
• Patient Safety Topics Topics: 148
• Asthma Topics Topics: 155
• Dorothea Orem’s Theory Research Topics Topics: 85
• Heart Attack Topics Topics: 54
• Myocardial Infarction Research Topics Topics: 52
• Breast Cancer Paper Topics Topics: 145
• Communicable Disease Research Topics Topics: 58

85 Hispanics Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on hispanics, ✍️ hispanics essay topics for college, 👍 good hispanics research topics & essay examples, 🌶️ hot hispanics ideas to write about.

• Interpersonal Space and Touch in Hispanic Culture
• The Hispanic Community in Homestead Florida
• Transcultural Nursing and Hispanic Patient’s Outcomes
• That Is What They Call Us: Hispanic, Latinos and Latinx
• Depression in Hispanic Culture
• Health Promotion Among Hispanic-Latino Population
• Children’s Obesity in the Hispanic Population
• The History of Florida and Hispanics in It This paper looks at the history of Florida and Hispanics in it, and their social diversity; looks at Hispanic contribution in the political arena, social life and economic sector.
• Roberto Clemente as a Hispanic Hero Roberto Clemente was also a humanitarian and a powerful source of inspiration, overcoming the discrimination that was prevalent at the time and helping others.
• Challenges Faced by Hispanic Immigrant Population The purpose of this article is to briefly describe the problems faced by Hispanic immigrants and suggest ways in which you can help them.
• Food and Family in the Hispanic Culture The notion of family is crucial to the Hispanic culture due to its encouraging idea of interdependence and belonging. The food became an integral part of family gatherings.
• Hispanic, Latino Americans and Mexican Heritage Culture Hispanics/Latinos are the largest minority cultural group, while Mexicans form the largest socio-cultural group among the Hispanic/Latino constituency.
• Hispanic Cuban Americans’ Cultural Heritage and Traditions The Cuban American’s culture and traditions are a blend of Spanish customary practices, different homeland Cubania heritages, and the US lifestyle.
• Hispanic Ethnocultural Population: Immersion Project This project explores the “Hispanics” group that consists of the US citizens affiliated with the Hispanic ethnocultural background, who share some of the same behavioral traits.
• Health Disparities Among Hispanic Patients The cultural aspects of the Hispanic community contribute significantly to the health disparities experienced by Hispanics as an ethnic minority.
• The Hispanic Cultural Group Healthcare The Hispanic cultural group is diverse and dynamic. The Hispanics have divergent views about the causes of diseases in the community.
• Epidemiology of COVID-19 Among Hispanics in the US Discriminatory factors that lead to the extreme epidemiological situation among Hispanics in the United States reflect the general social, economic, and racial inequality.
• Inventing Hispanics: Labeling a Diverse Minority It is widely believed that a Hispanic employee can have lunch for two hours, or their five-minute breaks will last for half an hour.
• Hispanic Marketing in Online and Mobile Formats The Hispanic community in the United States comprises an increasing population. This paper discusses the best approach to marketing campaigns targeting the Hispanic community.
• Alcohol Use Amongst Hispanic College Apprentices The results showed that less assimilated Hispanic percent of boys in the buffer zone could be at greater risk of alcohol addiction than Hispanic masculine apprentices.
• The Hispanic Unemployment Issue in the US A Hispanic person in the US is more likely to be unemployed than an average American. People of color have historically been one of the most discriminated groups.
• Latinos and Hispanics: History of Migration to North America Throughout history, and even in modem times, Hispanic and Latino immigrants have often relocated to North America to seek better opportunities.
• Epidemic of Type 2 Diabetes Among Hispanic Males Diabetes is a disease with a very high prevalence of 19% among Hispanic males. It is more common among Hispanics than all other races.
• Health Status of Hispanic Americans The US is populated by numerous ethnic groups, including non-Hispanic whites, Alaskan Natives, Asian and African Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Hispanics.
• The Discrepancies in Unhealthy Food Advertising: Hispanic and Black Consumers This research aims to outline the discrepancies in unhealthy food advertising directed toward Hispanic and Black consumers.
• Obesity in Adolescence in the Hispanic Community The health risks linked to Hispanic community adolescent obesity range from diabetes, heart problems, sleep disorders, asthma, and joint pain.
• Hispanic Culture Immersion in United States The Hispanic population has shown development in the United States. 31 million people are recognized as Hispanics, constituting the biggest minority group in the country.
• People of Cuban Heritage: Hispanic Americans v. Cuban Americans The highest proportion of Hispanic Americans is in New Mexico, California, and Texas. The largest proportion of Cuban Americans is in Florida, New Jersey, California.
• Mental Health in Adolescents Ages 15-18 of Hispanic Culture Latino youngsters face many challenges, such as the risk of behavioral issues like drug use, unplanned pregnancy, and low education levels.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder in a Hispanic Male Nicolάs, 27 years old, is a Hispanic male who reports three years of anxiety attacks. Thus, the complete diagnosis is Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
• The Problem of Hispanic Interracial Crimes Hispanic on Hispanic crime is more prevalent than Hispanic on non-Hispanic crime. In summary, most offenders commit crimes against people of a similar race or ethnicity to them.
• Hispanic Obesity in the Context of Cultural Empowerment This paper identifies negative factors directly causing obesity within the Hispanic people while distinguishing positive effects upon which potential interventions should be based.
• Researching the Hispanic Community in El Paso, Texas The Hispanic community is an ethnic group residing in El Paso, Texas, on the border with Mexico. The community is dominant in the city as of the approximately 680,000 population
• Obesity in Hispanic American Citizens The issue of obesity anong Hispanic Americans occurs as a result of poor dieting choices caused by misinformed perceptions of proper eating.
• The Prevalence and Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Diseases Among Hispanics This paper focuses on one of the minority ethnic groups namely Hispanics/Latinos. It discusses the frequency of CVD risk factors that affect the community.
• Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers in Hispanic Elderly People This paper shows that pressure ulcers will continue to increase in severity and costs if the current situation persists and becomes worse than the current situation.
• Cultural Assessment in Healthcare Setting: Hispanic Americans The research claims that certain health care issues affect Hispanic clients more than non-Hispanics due to their unique social, economic, and environmental factors.
• Increasing Diabetes Infections Among the Hispanic Populations The article’s objective is centered around establishing whether chronic stress makes US Hispanics more susceptible to diabetes.
• Hispanic Community: Alcohol & Substance Abuse Among the Female Gender Population This study will focus on alcohol and substance abuse among the female gender population proportion (12-20 years and 25-45 years) in the Hispanic community in California.
• Hispanic Americans Cultural Care: Background and Beliefs Culturally respectful treatment can make healthcare for Hispanic people less stressful and more common, lowering the risk of chronic illness and improving the community’s health.
• Impact of the 2008 Election on the Hispanic Population The 2008 presidential election can be considered a major historical event, as the percentage of the Hispanic population that voted for Obama was the highest ever.
• Hispanics as Vulnerable Population Children, women, the elderly, the poor and immigrants are main social groups considered to be vulnerable population.
• Pregnant Hispanic Girls Despite Available Birth Control Girls who are sexually active are at risk of getting unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
• Ethnicity Studies: Hispanic American Diversity The Hispanics do not have differences across their cultures except for the fact they came from different locations.
• Hispanics in the United States It is clear that all Hispanics are not natives of the US; they have Spanish as their primary language which actually form the basis of their name.
• Hispanic American Diversity: A Comparison of Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cubans, and Chileans This work analyzes the main similarities and differences in social, political, and cultural conventions of Hispanic ethnic groups live in the U.S.
• Social Diversity: Hispanics in America The essay describes occurrences of several common elements in culture, that serve in uniting the Hispanics from varied backgrounds.
• Intervention and Health Promotion Plan for Hispanic and Latino Community Such primary health problems of young Hispanics as STDs, HIV, heart diseases, and cancer are imposed by excessive alcohol consumption as a moderator of acculturative stress.
• Hispanic and Mexican Heritage and Health Beliefs This paper demonstrates a compare and contrast analysis of common characteristics and distinguishing traits between Hispanic American, Latino American, and Mexican heritage.
• The Hispanic Community of Miami The Hispanic community of Miami is the most dominant in the city due to large-scale migrations that occurred during the 1920s.
• Hispanic and Latino Population Presentation The aim of this research paper is to present the main characteristics of such cultural groups as Hispanics and Latinos.
• Hispanic Society’s and Bryant Park Websites Both the Hispanic Society and the Bryant Park sites comply with the existing standards for websites in terms of information provision.
• Hispanic Communities Effects on Policing Plans This paper is a literature review that seeks to examine whether or not the characteristics of the Hispanic communities affect the community-oriented policing plans.
• Health Disparity of Hispanics Hispanics are an ethnic group that is disproportionately affected by obesity. The health disparity requires the immediate attention of the members of the health community.
• French, Chinese and Hispanic Cultural Customs The paper discusses a French custom of getting together to have dinner, Chinese weddings, and Hispanic Quinceañeras – celebrating girl’s passage from childhood to womanhood.
• Culturally Congruent Care and Hispanic Health The paper overviews health promotion beliefs, health needs and concerns, and evidence-based health promotion strategies specific to Hispanic people.
• IPhone Addiction and Health of Hispanic Adolescents iPhone addiction among Hispanic adolescents is becoming a major health problem in the United States. The use of phones while driving is one of the leading causes of accidents.
• Hypertension Literacy Among Hispanic Patients One is considered to have hypertension if the force exerted by blood against the wall of blood vessels is greater than normal.
• Educational Programs for Hispanic Patients with Diabetes The main goals of this paper are to provide an evaluation plan and discuss the implications for the practice and future research. The research will be carried out in medical settings.
• Hispanic Population’s Health at Miami-Dade County Miami-Dade County ranks 23 out of 67 counties in the state of Florida. 67.3 percent of the population is Hispanic and encounters several chronic diseases.
• Hispanic Patient’s Health and Heritage Assessment The Heritage Assessment tool is helpful in evaluating and analyzing the health problems of a particular cultural group.
• The HIV Risk for Older Hispanic Women The authors of the article Unique Factors that Place Older Hispanic Women at Risk for HIV: Intimate Partner Violence, Machismo, and Marianismo clearly state the primary purpose of the research.
• Diabetes Among Hispanics in Miami: Risk Factors Diabetes is one of the most severe health-related threats in the world, as well as the USA. Hispanics develop diabetes due to their eating habits and sedentary life.
• Health Promotion Among Hispanic Population Hispanic Americans are still an underprivileged group that has limited access to healthcare services. The major health issues are related to healthy lifestyle.
• Adolescent Pregnancy in Hispanics and Afro-Americans This statement defines and explores the problem of adolescent pregnancy in Hispanic and black females and provides a position statement on the issue.
• Hispanic, Asian-Pacific, Jewish Populations’ Health This paper describes the unique cultural perspective toward health and well-being and the health needs of Hispanic populations, Asian-Pacific Islanders, and Jewish people.
• Old Hispanic Women and HIV Risk Factors The current study provides a significant contribution to the existing level of knowledge that involves old Hispanic women (OHW) and the already defined HIV risk factors.
• Diabetic Retinopathy Among Hispanics in Miami The purpose of the current paper is to evaluate the health risk related to the timely diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy that is faced by Hispanics/Latinos in Miami.
• Hispanic Communities’ Healthcare and Spirituality The demography of Hispanic communities in the United States demonstrates low economic standards as opposed to other communities.
• Health Issues Affecting African Americans and Hispanics Healthcare practitioners should provide adequate care to different members of the community. This exercise examines the health issues affecting African Americans and Hispanics.
• Hispanic Elderly Patients and Their Caregivers In elderly patients with chronic diseases does patient education intervention compared with only medication treatments improve their health statuses?
• Obesity Trends Among Non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks The primary objective of the reported study was to investigate the connection between education achievements and obesity.
• Culturally Competent Care and Hispanic Patients This paper seeks to collect information that might be relevant to nurses when they are caring for Hispanic families and patients in clinical settings.
• Health Promotion Among Hispanic Minority Group The following paper addresses the issue of health disparities of the Hispanic minority group through health promotion.
• Hispanic Population With Heart Failure The research problem was based on the realization that the effectiveness of heart failure management programs had not been tested when in Hispanic participants.
• Hispanic Vulnerabilities in the US: A VPCM Review The paper reviews Hispanic population as a vulnerable population in the US using Vulnerable Population Conceptual Model, and healthcare models in the US.
• Hispanic American Cultural Group: Diverse Ancestry & Rich Heritage The Hispanic American cultural group is comprised of individuals of different ancestry. The group includes the Mexican, Colombian, Rican, Neomexican, Guatemalan, Cuban, and Dominican.
• Hispanic Population in the USA The Hispanic population is the largest national-linguistic minority on the territory of the USA, which has a long and complicated history. The Hispanics are the representatives of two unequal groups.
• Hispanics Health and Cultural Practices Hispanic Americans originated in Spain and other countries in Latin America. Hispanic Americans are made up of a wide range of other ethnicities.

Cite this post

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2022, July 14). 85 Hispanics Essay Topics. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/hispanics-essay-topics/

"85 Hispanics Essay Topics." StudyCorgi , 14 July 2022, studycorgi.com/ideas/hispanics-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . (2022) '85 Hispanics Essay Topics'. 14 July.

1. StudyCorgi . "85 Hispanics Essay Topics." July 14, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/hispanics-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "85 Hispanics Essay Topics." July 14, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/hispanics-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "85 Hispanics Essay Topics." July 14, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/hispanics-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Hispanics were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on June 23, 2024 .

• 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project
• A. Philip Randolph Career Academies
• Abess Park Elementary
• Alden Rd. Exc Student Center
• Alfred I. duPont Middle
• Alimacani Elementary
• Anchor Academy
• Andrew A. Robinson Elementary
• Andrew Jackson High School of Advanced Technology
• Annie R. Morgan Elementary
• Arlington Elementary
• Arlington Heights Elementary
• Arlington Middle School
• Atlantic Beach Elementary
• Atlantic Coast High School
• Our schools. Our community. Our future.
• Baldwin Middle-High School
• Bartram Springs Elementary
• Bayview Elementary
• Beauclerc Elementary
• Biltmore Elementary
• Biscayne Elementary Leadership Academy
• Bridge To Success Academy High School
• Bridge to Success Academy - Middle (at the former St. Clair Evans building)
• Brookview Elementary
• Career and Technical Education
• Cedar Hills Elementary
• Central Riverside Elementary
• Chaffee Trail Elementary
• Charger Academy
• Chets Creek Elementary
• Chimney Lakes Elementary
• Crown Point Elementary
• Crystal Springs Elementary
• Darnell-Cookman Middle-High
• Dinsmore Elementary
• District Data
• Don Brewer Elementary
• Douglas Anderson School of the Arts
• Fletcher High School
• Fletcher Middle School
• Duval Virtual Instruction Academy
• Edward H. White High School
• Englewood Elementary
• Englewood High School
• Enrollment & School Choice
• Enterprise Learning Academy
• Family Engagement
• First Coast High School
• Fishweir Elementary
• Fort Caroline Elementary
• Fort Caroline Middle School of the Visual and Performing Arts
• Frank Peterson Academies
• Garden City Elementary
• George W. Carver Elementary
• Grand Park Education Center
• GRASP Academy
• Greenfield Elementary
• Greenland Pines Elementary
• Gregory Drive Elementary
• Half-Penny Referendum Oversight
• Hendricks Avenue Elementary
• Chaffee Trail Middle School
• Hidden Oaks Elementary
• Highlands Estates Academy
• Highlands Middle School
• Hogan-Spring Glen Elementary
• Holiday Hill Elementary
• Human Resource Services
• Hyde Grove Early Learning Center
• Hyde Park Elementary
• J. Allen Axson Elementary
• Jacksonville Beach Elementary
• Jacksonville Heights Elementary
• James Weldon Johnson
• Jean Ribault High School
• Jean Ribault Middle
• John E. Ford Pre K-8 School
• John Love Early Learning Center
• John Stockton Elementary
• Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership
• Julia Landon College Preparatory
• Kernan Middle School
• Kernan Trail Elementary
• Kings Trail Elementary
• Lake Lucina Elementary
• Lake Shore Middle School
• Landmark Middle School
• Lavilla Middle
• Lone Star Elementary
• Long Branch Elementary
• Loretto Elementary
• Louis S. Sheffield Elementary
• Love Grove Elementary
• Mamie Agnes Jones Elementary
• Mandarin High School
• Mandarin Middle School
• Mandarin Oaks Elementary
• Marine Science Ed. Center
• Martin Luther King, Jr. (Rutledge Pearson Elementary)
• Matthew W. Gilbert Middle
• M V Rutherford Alt Ed Center
• Mayport Elementary
• Mayport Coastal Sciences Middle
• Merrill Road Elementary
• Mt Herman Exc Student Center
• Neptune Beach Elementary
• New Berlin Elementary
• We Have That
• Normandy Village Elementary
• North Shore Elementary
• Northwestern Legends
• Oak Hill Academy
• Oceanway Elementary
• Oceanway Middle
• Ortega Elementary
• Palm Avenue Exceptional Student Center
• Parkwood Heights Elementary
• Paxon School For Advanced Studies
• Pickett Elementary
• Pine Estates Elementary
• Pine Forest Elementary
• Pinedale Elementary
• R. V. Daniels Elementary
• Ramona Boulevard Elementary
• Reynolds Lane Elementary
• Richard Lewis Brown Gifted and Talented Academy
• Riverside High School
• Rufus E. Payne Elementary
• Ruth N. Upson Elementary
• Rutledge H. Pearson Elementary
• Smart Pope Livingston Primary Learning Center
• Sabal Palm Elementary
• Sadie T Tillis Elementary
• Sallye B. Mathis Elementary
• Samuel A. Hull Elementary
• Samuel Wolfson School for Advanced Studies and Leadership
• San Jose Elementary
• San Mateo Elementary
• San Pablo Elementary
• Sandalwood High School
• Schools for the Future/Bridge to Success
• Seabreeze Elementary
• Southside Estates Elementary
• Southside Middle School
• Spring Park Elementary
• Springfield Middle School
• Stanton College Preparatory School
• Susie E. Tolbert Elementary
• Terry Parker High School
• Thomas Jefferson Elementary
• Timucuan Elementary
• Twin Lakes Academy Elementary
• Twin Lakes Academy Middle
• Venetia Elementary
• Waterleaf Elementary
• West Jacksonville Elementary
• West Riverside Elementary
• Westside High School
• Westside Middle School
• Westview PreK-8 School
• Whitehouse Elementary
• William M. Raines High School
• Windy Hill Elementary
• Woodland Acres Elementary
• Young Men's and Women's Leadership Academy

Duval County Public Schools

Every Student. Every Day.

• Alden Road Exceptional Student Center
• Andrew A. Robinson
• Annie R. Morgan
• Arlington Heights
• Atlantic Beach
• Bartram Springs
• Cedar Hills
• Central Riverside
• Chaffee Trail
• Chets Creek
• Chimney Lakes
• Crown Point
• Crystal Springs
• Duval Homeroom
• Duval Virtual
• Fort Caroline
• Garden City
• George W. Carver
• Greenland Pines
• Gregory Drive
• Hendricks Avenue
• Hidden Oaks
• Hogan-Spring Glen
• Holiday Hill
• J. Allen Axson
• Jacksonville Beach
• Jacksonville Heights
• John E. Ford English and Bilingual Montessori Pre K-8 School
• John N. C. Stockton
• Kernan Trail
• Kings Trail
• Lake Lucina
• Long Branch
• Louis Sheffield
• Mamie Agnes Jones
• Mandarin Oaks
• Mattie V. Rutherford Alternative Education Center
• Merrill Road
• Mt. Herman Exceptional Student Center
• Neptune Beach
• Normandy Village
• North Shore
• Parkwood Heights
• Pine Estates
• Pine Forest
• Ramona Boulevard
• Reynolds Lane
• Richard L. Brown
• Rufus E. Payne
• Ruth N. Upson
• Rutledge H. Pearson
• R. V. Daniels
• Sadie T. Tillis
• Sallye B. Mathis
• Samuel A. Hull
• Southside Estates
• S. P. Livingston
• Spring Park
• Susie E. Tolbert
• Thomas Jefferson
• Twin Lakes Academy
• West Riverside
• Westview K-8 School
• Woodland Acres
• Saint Clair Evans Academy
• Alfred I. duPont
• Bridge to Success Academy
• Darnell-Cookman School of the Medical Arts
• Duncan Fletcher
• Jean Ribault
• Julia Landon
• Joseph Stilwell
• LaVilla School of the Arts
• Matthew Gilbert
• Mayport Coastal Sciences
• Springfield
• Westside Middle
• Andrew Jackson
• Bridge To Success Academy
• Edward H. White
• First Coast
• Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology
• Grand Park Center
• Marine Science Education Center
• Samuel W. Wolfson School for Advanced Studies and Leadership
• Terry Parker
• William M. Raines

2023 Hispanic Heritage Month Essay Contest

In proud partnership with, about hispanic heritage month.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. 

During this time, the nation celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanics in all areas of society including: scientific discoveries, research, art, music, government, and more!

The day of Sept. 15 is significant because: 

• It is the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
• Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18 respectively.
• Columbus Day, which is Oct. 12, falls within this 30-day period. 

Congratulations to the 2023 Essay Contest Winners

The district's annual Hispanic Heritage Month essay contest gives students a chance to explore the rich Hispanic heritage right here in Northeast Florida!

The winners of this year's contest are: 

• Elementary: Kennedi McGriff, Biscayne Elementary School
• Middle: Brody Rodriguez, Mayport Coastal Sciences Middle School
• High: Daniel Kaye, Stanton College Prep

• Eligibility: Open to all students in grades 4 - 12.
• Contest Dates: Now - Oct 4, 2023. Submissions are due at 5 PM on Wednesday, Oct. 4. 
• Grades 4-5: Ms. K. Rodriguez at [email protected]
• Grades 6-8: Ms. R. Jernigan at [email protected]
• Grades 9-12: Ms. K. Montes-Santiago at [email protected]
• Winners: There will be an elementary school winner, middle school winner, and high school winner.
• Winners Notified: Friday, Oct. 6, 2023
• Awards Ceremony: We are excited to share that we have partnered with the Jaguars Foundation to honor our winners. They will be invited to attend an Awards Ceremony celebrating their achievement at the Jaguar Stadium-EverBank Stadium on Friday, October 13.  
• The Arts (visual, music, theater, etc.)
• Must be one page, written in Spanish or English, typed, and double-spaced with one-inch margins, using 11-point Calibri font.
• Must include a title page containing the name of this contest, name of the essay, student name, teacher name, school name, and parent contact information.
• Must include a bibliography using MLA or APA format for all sources including interviews. Failure to credit sources is plagiarism and will result in disqualification.
• Please read the rubric carefully to understand how your essay will be judged.
• Must turn in a signed Media Release form with the essay.

Congratulations to the 2022 winners!

The winners of last year's Hispanic Heritage Essay Month contest were selected on Oct. 18, 2022. They are:

• Elementary: Tennyson Haas, West Riverside Elementary School
• Middle: Giannina Quinones, Lavilla School of the Arts
• High: Sarah Robinson, Riverside High School

• Questions or Feedback? |
• Web Community Manager Privacy Policy (Updated) |

Important Topics to Talk About for Hispanic Heritage Month

Kimberly dyke.

Hispanic Heritage Week was established by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968 and was extended to a full month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. Observances honor the heritage of one of the largest cultural groups in the United States. Hispanic Heritage Month is often observed in school classrooms and public libraries, along with other organizations and businesses. The celebration lasts from September 15 to October 15 and covers several milestones in Spanish-American history.

Explore this article

• Who is Hispanic?
• Spanish Cognates
• Musical Influence
• Historical Overview

1 Who is Hispanic?

Defining exactly who is considered Hispanic is foundational to a discussion for Hispanic Heritage Month. The term “Hispanic” applies to a descendant of any Spanish-speaking country or Spanish-speaking area of the United States. “Hispanic” is not a race, and includes people from various indigenous groups, as well as those of African and Spanish heritage. Being Caucasian or having black skin does not exclude a person from being Hispanic. With such wide-spread roots, Hispanics as a whole offer a very diverse history.

Vocabulary Builder

2 spanish cognates.

Another discussion option for Hispanic Heritage Month may be to observe the number of Spanish cognates used in the English language. A cognate is a word that sounds similar in both languages. Some examples of common cognates include “dance” and “danza,” “liberty” and “libertad,” and “tiger” and “tigre.” Some words are spelled the same in English but are pronounced differently, such as “chocolate,” “radio” and “solar.”

3 Musical Influence

The Hispanic culture influences and permeates the music scene around the world. Hispanic Heritage Month offers the opportunity to discover up-and-coming and established Hispanic artists on the radio and Internet. A deeper look into music can show the Hispanic influence on other styles of music through the years, such as the presence of conga players in big-band music and the addition of a “Spanish tinge” to the rhythm and blues tunes from the 1950s.

4 Historical Overview

An important consideration when talking about Hispanic Heritage Month is “Where did all of the Hispanic people come from?” While school textbooks traditionally proclaim that Christopher Columbus discovered the New World on a trip funded by Queen Isabella in 1492, the fact that indigenous peoples were already living and thriving there is often omitted. When more Spaniards arrived on the newly discovered land over the following years, they brought their language and culture with them. The Spanish controlled most of Central and South America during the 1500s, beginning the expansion of the Hispanic culture.

• 1 Scholastic: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage for Grades 2-5
• 2 Yale National Initiative: Hispanic Heritage Month: What Are We Celebrating, Anyway?

About the Author

Kimberly Dyke is a Spanish interpreter with a B.A. in language and international trade from Clemson University. She began writing professionally in 2010, specializing in education, parenting and culture. Currently residing in South Carolina, Dyke has received certificates in photography and medical interpretation.

Related Articles

Lumbee Customs and Traditions

Cultural Beliefs in Burkina Faso

Pangasinan Beliefs

When Was Nigeria Discovered?

Who Invented Spaghetti?

Characteristics of Irish Ancestry

Customs & Traditions of Barbados

What Types of Music Do People in Spain Listen to?

Irish Culture & Traditions in Atlantic Canada

Culture Lesson for First-Graders

How to Celebrate Diversity

The Different Types of Asians

Fun Activities for a High School Spanish Club

Black History Month Decorating Idea

Colleges in North Carolina Offering a Major in Russian

Hispanic Religious Beliefs

Cultural Pluralism During the Harlem Renaissance

The Effects of Culture & Diversity on America

March Theme Ideas

Facts on Christianity & Spirituality in Portugal

Regardless of how old we are, we never stop learning. Classroom is the educational resource for people of all ages. Whether you’re studying times tables or applying to college, Classroom has the answers.

• Accessibility
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Copyright Policy
• Manage Preferences

© 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Based on the Word Net lexical database for the English Language. See disclaimer .

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: IU medical student shares experiences as Peruvian immigrant

Laura Gates Sep 16, 2024

IU medical student Sebastian Castillo immigrated from Peru to the U.S. as a child and now advocates for underserved families.

Meet Evansville MD student Sebastian Castillo

Sebastian Castillo knows that for every struggle, there are personal strengths being forged. Although he was barely a toddler when his family immigrated from Lima, Peru to Charlotte, North Carolina, his cultural heritage continues to influence his path as a medical student at Indiana University School of Medicine—Evansville .

Castillo values cooperation and relates to people from underserved communities. His family’s story undergirds his passion for becoming a physician and breaking down barriers to medical care.

“Through my experiences, I gained a deep understanding of what it means to grow up in a low-income immigrant family,” Castillo said. “I learned firsthand the feelings of guilt that come from knowing everyone is trying their hardest, yet still struggling to make ends meet.”

Those same challenges, Castillo acknowledges, “instilled grit, determination and a strong work ethic.” His experiences have shaped who he is and where he is going.

‘Everyone has a part to play.’

Castillo came to the U.S. as a 1-year-old, along with his two teenage siblings, after their mother found work in Charlotte. While the family’s immigration opened opportunities in education and employment, it did not immediately remove the worries of food insecurity and homelessness his mother was trying to escape. The relocation also brought a new language and culture to learn.

“We faced these obstacles head on, working harder and building relationships from scratch,” Castillo said. “In our household, every one of us had a part to play in keeping our family moving forward. Even as a young child, I did whatever I could to help, whether it was tagging along with my mom to clean houses or standing guard at our small jewelry kiosk to make sure nothing was stolen.” The family moved often and shared cramped spaces, living with friends before they were able to purchase a home.

“Throughout this period, we remained frugal and resourceful — we relied on food stamps and Medicaid, and we shared a single car,” Castillo said. “While these limitations restricted our lifestyle, the strong bond and unity within our family brought us tremendous joy.”

“I became especially grateful for the compassionate care we received, much of which came from community health centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers,” Castillo said. These government-funded medical clinics offer services on a sliding scale based on an individual’s ability to pay.

Despite his mother’s fortitude, Castillo could see the heaviness written on her face. As a child who wasn’t old enough to contribute to the family finances, he felt his most valuable contribution was often a simple hug, silently expressing, “I am with you.”

Although there are over a thousand miles between them now — from Evansville, Indiana, to south Florida where his mother now lives — Castillo still calls his mom every day.

“Those moments when I saw my mom struggling, but still trying so hard, are etched into me,” Castillo said. “I learned that by remaining consistent and united, and never giving up, success is achievable even in the face of adversity.”

Something his big sister, Claudia, told him long ago has stuck with him: “You can’t control the wind, but you can adjust the sails.”

Castillo took that to mean hardships will come, but he gets to choose how to direct his attitude and focus. He eventually followed his sister’s path toward a medical career. Today Claudia Isabella Tussey, MD, is a family medicine physician in Delray Beach, Florida.

“While I did have amazing familial support, I still had a lot of doubt in my own ability to make my dream a reality,” Castillo said. “I made academics a priority, and yet I felt very average. The doubt I had was always countered by family members that, oftentimes, believed in me even more than I believed in myself.”

Safeguarding children and strengthening families

As a student at Florida State University, Castillo majored in interdisciplinary medical sciences and seized an opportunity to participate in a service-learning trip back to his homeland with MEDLIFE, a nonprofit that connects student groups with low-income communities around the globe to bring dental and health care, education and housing security.

“The trip I participated in was to Cusco, Peru, where I played a role in organizing and setting up local mobile clinics across rural areas,” Castillo said. “This hands-on experience not only deepened my commitment to improving health care access for underserved populations, but it also reinforced my passion for community-driven health care initiatives.”

“Based on my findings, I created a poster presentation to share my conclusions and advocate for the importance of preventive education in safeguarding children,” he said.

Castillo’s poster was selected as a winner at the Indiana Clinical and Translational Science Institute and IU School of Medicine—Evansville 2024 Regional Campus Retreat.

Now Castillo is exploring primary care as a campus representative to the Primary Care Student Interest Group at IU School of Medicine. He’s also interested in psychiatry and has sought career mentorship from Julianne Guist, MD , who connected Castillo with mental health initiatives in Evansville.

“During his brief time at IU School of Medicine, Sebastian has already demonstrated his strong passion for mental health, working with youth, and his consideration of health equity through research and service endeavors,” said Guist, assistant professor of clinical psychiatry and the psychiatry clerkship director.

Castillo trained with Youth First to facilitate a family strengthening program that is proven to reduce multiple risk factors for later substance abuse, mental health problems and delinquency. This fall, he is co-leading a 10-week group program for southwestern Indiana youth and their families.

While American culture tends to be individualistic, Castillo knows the value of a strong family.

“In Hispanic culture, there is a deeply ingrained value of sticking together and supporting one another within the family,” he said. “This kind of support is extremely powerful and has personally helped me through some of the toughest times in my life.”

Sharing cultural traditions: Peruvian Ceviche

“It typically consists of fresh, raw fish or seafood that is ‘cooked’ by marinating in citrus juices, primarily lime or lemon,” he explained. “The acidity from the citrus denatures the proteins in the fish, giving it a texture similar to cooked fish without using heat.”

Ceviche is customizable. Along with the desired seafood and citrus, ceviche often includes finely chopped onions, cilantro, tomatoes and chili peppers, which add freshness, spice, and texture, Castillo said. It's typically served chilled and accompanied by sides like corn, sweet potatoes, avocado or tortilla chips.

It’s easy to make! Try this Peruvian Fish Ceviche recipe from EatPeru.com .

Laura Gates

Laura is senior writer with the Office of Strategic Communications and loves to tell the stories of outstanding students, faculty and staff at IU School of Medicine. A native Hoosier, she has over 25 years of experience in communications, having worked with newspapers and other media organizations in Indiana and Florida, along with small businesses, community groups and non-profit organizations. Before joining IU School of Medicine in January 2020, she was editor-in-chief of a lifestyle magazine serving the community of Estero, Florida.

Suggested for you