Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates history and culture

The theme for Hispanic Heritage Month 2018 is “Hispanics: One Endless Voice to Enhance our Traditions” according to an announcement by The National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers. The winning them was submitted by Aissha Hernandez-Ramos, United States Department of Agriculture in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed it into public law as Hispanic Heritage Week. Twenty years later President Ronald Regan expanded the observance to 31-days starting September 15 and ending October 15 each year.

“Although Hispanics share so much, we do also have very unique characteristics; and that, enhances us as a group,” Henandez-Ramos said. “Our traditions will always be part of who we are. As our history shapes our character; culture defines our beauty; and traditions will enhance our future. History, culture and traditions define us; and we maintain alive because of that. We will keep talking to the world, we will let them know we are here, with our history and culture, as we will keep raising our voice with all we are: a legacy of traditions.”

A poster of a service member in uniform was created this month showing Hispanic American devotion to duty and celebrating their culture and heritage. On the uniform are images of Hispanic service members and civilians displaying their contributions to their notable history in a variety of ways. As far back as the Civil War era the United States military has a remarkable history of Hispanic men and women who have served eagerly and proudly to defend our nation and its people. From then to now, there have been countless of Hispanic Americans throughout the world who have defended America with unwavering valor and honor.

Cpl. Jose Gutierrez, who was one of many Latino-descent voices, helped strengthen our tradition amongst the armed services. Gutierrez was one of the first U.S. soldiers killed in action in Iraq, devoting his life to the United States.

Hispanic and Latino Americans have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their community. Please use this time with us to reflect and celebrate the generations of proud Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.