September is here, and that means it’s time to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month! At McDonald Bookkeeping Services, we’re excited to honor the rich histories, vibrant cultures, and incredible contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. Whether through food, music, or stories, let’s dive into this month-long fiesta together!

Mark Your Calendars: September 15th – October 15th, 2024

National Hispanic Heritage Month spans from September 15th to October 15th each year, giving us a whole month to explore, learn, and celebrate the cultures, histories, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central & South America.

Why the 2-month cross-over? This period aligns with the independence days of several Latin American countries (Costa Rica, Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Chile, Honduras and Nicaragua), making it a perfect time for celebration and reflection.

A Brief History of National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month began as a week-long celebration in June 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to a month-long observance 2 decades later in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988.

This month honors the contributions of Hispanic Americans, Latinos, Latinas, and Latinx-identifying Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Latino population in the United States currently stands at over 63 million (or 19% of the total US population).  From art and music to science and politics, the Hispanic community has enriched our nation in countless ways.

Who Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month? Everyone!

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated by people from all walks of life. Schools, businesses, community organizations, and individuals across the country participate in various events and activities to honor Hispanic heritage. It’s a time for everyone to come together, learn about, and appreciate the cultural richness and diversity of the Hispanic community.

Join the Fiesta: Fun Participation Ideas

Looking for ways to get involved in National Hispanic Heritage Month? Here are some fun and engaging ideas to celebrate and honor Hispanic culture:

1. Host a Cultural Day at the Office: Encourage employees to share their Hispanic heritage by bringing in traditional foods, music, and decorations. Create a festive atmosphere with a potluck lunch featuring Hispanic cuisine.
2. Dish Up Some Delicious Flavors: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by exploring the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Hispanic culture. You can organize a potluck at your office or with friends and family where everyone brings a dish inspired by Hispanic cuisine.
3. Community Events: Participate in local Hispanic Heritage Month events such as parades, festivals, and cultural exhibitions. Show your support and enjoy the festivities with your community.
4. Hit the Dance Floor: Celebrate by hosting a dance event featuring traditional Hispanic music and dance styles like salsa, bachata, and tango. Invite a dance instructor for lessons, and enjoy an evening of vibrant rhythms and cultural immersion. It’s a fun way to honor Hispanic heritage and connect through dance.
5. Book and Film Club: Start a book or film club focused on Hispanic authors and filmmakers. Explore the rich literary and cinematic contributions of the Hispanic community. You can also binge-watch popular Spanish movies with your kids on Netflix and other streaming services.
6. Social Media Campaign: Share stories, facts, and highlights about Hispanic heritage on your social media platforms. Use hashtags like #HispanicHeritageMonth2024 and #CelebrateHispanicHeritage to join the conversation.
7. Volunteer and Support: Support Hispanic-owned businesses and volunteer with organizations that focus on Hispanic communities. Giving back is a meaningful way to celebrate and honor the contributions of Hispanic Americans.

Celebrate Diversity with Us!

We hope these ideas inspire you to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with enthusiasm and respect.

At McDonald Bookkeeping Services, we’re proud to honor and support the diverse communities that make our nation great. Need help with your bookkeeping? Contact us today and let us handle the numbers while you immerse yourself in the celebrations.

¡Viva la cultura!