National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually between September 15 and October 15. It is a time to appreciate and celebrate the beautiful cultures, rich histories, and diversity of the American Latino community. Here are some facts about National Hispanic Heritage Month:

• The commemoration of Hispanic heritage started as a weeklong event in 1968. It was expanded from a week to a month in 1988.

• It starts on September 15 because El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua all observe their Independence Day on that date. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their Independence Day during September.

• Hispanic Heritage Month always has a theme. This year’s theme is “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America.”

• Twenty percent of the U.S. population identifies as Hispanic. In Northfield, that number is 10% of the population and 16% of the students in public school.

• In the United States, Mexican Americans make up the largest Hispanic population (approximately 62% of the overall U.S. Hispanic population). The majority of Northfield’s Hispanic residents have connections to a town in Mexico called Maltrata, which is in the state of Veracruz.

• You have the opportunity to appreciate and celebrate our Hispanic Northfield neighbors on September 16!

The Northfield Public Library and the Hispanic Heritage Celebration Committee are sponsoring the 2023 Hispanic Heritage Celebration from 11am to 5pm in Central Park. The entertainment schedule includes dance groups, musicians, and a comedian. There will be also be cooking demonstrations, kids’ activities and even a festive pet costume contest! Visit mynpl.org/hhc/2023 for more information.