Celebrating Latinx Heritage Month
Celebrated from September 15th to October 15th, Latinx Heritage Month commemorates the independence anniversaries of several Latin American nations while recognizing the contributions and diverse culture rooted in traditions. Through this month, we honor the Latinx, Hispanic, and Latino-identified communities.
How Did Latinx Heritage Month Begin?
This celebration originally began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 and was later expanded to a 31-day period from September 15th to October 15th as National Hispanic Heritage Month in 1988. September 15th is recognized as national independence days for multiple Latin American countries, including Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Additionally, September 16th is Mexico’s Independence Day.
What Does Latinx Mean?
An important way to honor Latinx Heritage is to understanding the meaning of this inclusive term. The word Latinx is used as a gender-neutral alternative to Latina and Latino. It describes the diverse group of people of Latin American descent. The term Hispanic refers to an ethnic group in the United States that has cultural origins in Spanish-speaking countries.
Ways to Celebrate
During LatinX Heritage month and throughout the year, there are so many ways to celebrate the heritage and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Check out some of our favorite ways!
Support a Hispanic or Latinx-owned business
A great way to be an ally is to support Hispanic or Latinx-owned businesses by buying from them, recommending them, and connecting on their networks. From beauty products to food to clothing, here is a list to kickstart your shopping!
· Cuyana is a sustainable clothing brand co-created by Karla Gallardo.
· Hija de Tu Madre, created by Patty Delgado, carries a variety of items, including apparel, mugs, and planners, that highlight Latinx pride.
· Nemi Hiolistics was founded by Rigna Trillo, carriers savory, nutritious snacks.
· Lights Lacquer is a cruelty-free nail polish company, created by Kathleen Fuentes.
Enjoy a classic Latin American dish
A delicious way to dive into and celebrate the Latin American culture is to make a popular food dish. These recipes are easy to make and a fun way to learn more about the cultures that they originate from. Some of our favorites are Puerto Rican Arroz Con Glandules, Choco Flan, and Fried Empanadas.
Donate to Latinx Organizations
Latinx Heritage Month is a perfect time to give back to the community by supporting Latinx organizations that promote advocacy, education, healthcare, and more. Organizations to consider include the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, Unidos US, and NALEO Educational Fund. Such organizations deserve support all the time, not limited to one month!
Make a playlist of Hispanic and Latinx Artists and Podcasts
Throughout this next month, switch up your daily tunes and explore different Hispanic artists. Check out Billboard’s 2020 playlist “Latin Divas” playlist for a place to start!
If podcasts are more your style, no worries. There are tons of podcasts available to learn more about Latinx culture, or even pick up on a little Spanish! “Latina to Latina”, “Tres Cuentose Literary Podcast”, and “Yeah No, I’m Not OK” are great podcasts to start out with.
Binge a Latinx TV Show or Movie
If you are anything like us, we are constantly looking for something new to watch. Lucky for us, streaming platforms feature Latinx and Hispanic content during Latinx Heritage Month! Netflix and Hulu both have a section that features TV shows and movies created by and starring Latinx folks.
