May is National Hispanic Heritage Month
Maryland Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month!
May is National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Hispanic and Latinx community. According to the census, 62.6 million Americans identify as Hispanic or Latinx, making them the nation’s largest racial or ethnic minority. In Maryland, Hispanic/Latinx are 12% of the Maryland population and number around 744,000.
The Heritage Month observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period in September-October. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively.
During this Hispanic Heritage Month, the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) encourages Marylanders to learn more about the culture and contributions the Hispanic/Latinx community have made in society.
Public Television PBS is airing a TV special:
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| Celebrate Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian Heritage Month |
| Every May we take extra time to celebrate Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian (AAPINH) Heritage Month by shining a light on AAPI experiences and filmmakers. Enjoy this collection of films, some premiering in May as well as some gems to revisit. |
Here are some FREE activities happening in Maryland:
- Prince Georges County Dept. of Parks and Recreation Hispanic Heritage Month Calendar of Events.
- Montgomery College Calendar of Events.
- Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration Kickoff (In Waldorf, MD).
- City of Mount Rainer’s Latino Heritage Month Celebration.
- Hispanic Business on BAM (Business, Advocacy, and Mentorship)! Showcase.
- 14th Annual Latino Festival of Frederick, MD.
- Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration and Presentation of Community Service Awards.
- Hispanic Heritage Month: Hispanic Leadership Awards Dinner.
- 3rd Annual Latin Rhythms Festival.
Here are some other FREE celebratory events in Maryland:
