September is National Hispanic Heritage Month

Although September officially starts the football season, there are lots of other important events that are coming upon us this fall. National Hispanic Heritage Month is also celebrated in September.

According to the National Hispanic Heritage Month website: “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.”

Also from the website: “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. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.”

There are many little known Hispanic citizens who have made significant contributions to our culture in the areas of politics, entertainment, and music, as well as many other areas. This is the perfect time to stop by your local library to pick up a few books or DVDs about prominent Hispanic figures:

Books
Portraits of Hispanic American Heroes 
Hispanic-American Crafts Kids Can Do!
Hispanic Holidays 
Sonia Sotomayor: First Hispanic U.S. Supreme Court Justice
My Beloved World 
El Barrio 
A Kid's Guid to Latino History: More Than 50 Activities

DVDs
Latino Americans: The 500-Year Legacy That Shaped a Nation
Roots of  Rhythm

Pamela Jessie
Woodlawn Library