Civic Engagement 2020

During National Hispanic Heritage Month(September 15 to October 15) we recognize the contributions made and the important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and celebrate their heritage and culture. 

Our Hispanic/Latinx have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. They have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their community.

So why does Hispanic Heritage Month start in the middle of September and end in Mid-October?

Hispanic Heritage Month, whose roots go back to 1968, begins each year on September 15, the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile and Belize also celebrate their independence days during this period and Columbus Day (Día de la Raza) is October 12.

The term Hispanic, refers to the racially and ethnically group of folks who are from hispanophone (Spanish Speaking) countries that were historically colonized by Spain. This term is inclusive to those who also from Spanish origin. The term Latino however excludes Spain, but includes non-Spanish speaking Latin American countries such as Belize, Brazil, Guyana, and Haiti. Please note that even if folks may have ethnic roots from Latin America, they may identify as either, neither or both Hispanic and/or Latino (i.e. we encourage you to check out how the term Hispanic has been reclaimed and it's impacts on the Brown Power Movement).

Today, 55 million people or 17% of the American population identify as Hispanic or Latino origin. This represents a significant increase from 2000, which registered the Hispanic population at 35.3 million or 13% of the total U.S. population.

Share in this special annual tribute by learning and celebrating the generations of Hispanic and Latino Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

Curious about the term Latinx? Please click here.

Please check out our September PAWTalks: Featuring the performance of Judge Torres!

For more information on Mosaic Hispanic/Latinx centered events, please email Carlos Turcios Coordinator for Student Diversity and Inclusion at carlos6@umbc.edu or at mosaic@umbc.edu.