Hispanic Heritage Month 2022

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans in the United States. The Sept. 15 start date marks the 201-year anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile and Belize celebrate their independence days on September 16, September 18 and September 21, respectively.

The observation was first acknowledged in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson changed to a 30-day celebration in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan and was finally enacted into a law on August 17, 1988.

Hispanic Americans are identified by the countries from which they or their ancestors originated, including Mexico, Puerto Rico and Spain, and can trace their roots back to the cultures of the Americas’ Indigenous peoples, including the Aztecs (Mexico), Arawaks (Puerto Rico), Incas (South America), Maya (Central America) and Tainos (in Cuba and Puerto Rico). Some can trace their roots back to the Spanish explorers who set out in the 1400s to find a cheaper and easier way to trade with the Indies, and others can even trace their roots back to African slaves brought to the New World.

The United States Census Bureau revealed that the Hispanic population is the largest minority group in the United States with over 58.9 million people nationwide. It’s crucial that we take the time to appreciate their culture and celebrate the people who fill the United States with different forms of art, music and food.

Amplify ERG (formerly BIPOC ERG) welcomes you to come together to honor, advocate and educate our workforce on the Hispanic and Latino experience. Following this year’s theme, “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation,” we will recognize and show appreciation for all Hispanic and Latin American countries that the MMGY community represents. Join us as we celebrate Hispanic and Latino traditions, culture and communities.