GOV
About Hispanic Heritage Month
Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
The 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 starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. 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 September 18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.
Local Information
The Hispanic/Latino population in St. Louis rose 40% from 2010-2020, and continues to rise.
A 2021 St. Louis Public Radio piece attributes this to the region's growing professional and educational opportunities, and the local support available for entrepreneurs.
St. Louis organization unveils Hispanic Heritage Flag (August 2023)
10 things you should know about Mexican history in St. Louis (from 2017)
Local Links
Hispanic Festival St. Louis
A group of volunteers who coordinate Hispanic festivals and presentations throughout the St. Louis area and whose purpose is to unite all Hispanics regardless of their social, economical and political background.
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan St. Louis
HCCSTL's mission is to improve business opportunities for Hispanic firms and professionals thereby improving the economic development of the St. Louis region.
The Hispanic Leaders Group of Greater St Louis
The Hispanic Leaders Group promotes and supports the advancement of our vibrant Hispanic community through networking, education and advocacy to foster harmony and diversity in the greater St. Louis region.
LatinX Arts Network
A network for artists and art advocates who support and encourage the Hispanic/Latinx arts in the Greater St. Louis area including fine arts, performance arts, visual art, literary arts, music and all other art expressions including art producers.
STL Juntos
Uniting community to share essential information and resources in Spanish and advocating for language access in St. Louis.
Events
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No events available.
Resources
Hispanic Heritage Month at National Archives
View related records on the Hispanic/Latino Heritage resource page and in the Archives Catalog at the National Archives
National Hispanic Heritage Month
The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in paying tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.
