Mark Your Calendar! National Hispanic Heritage Month September 15-October 15

In September 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, which was observed during the week that included September 15 and 16. The observance was expanded in 1988 by Congress to a monthlong celebration (Sept. 15 - Oct. 15), effective the following year. America celebrates the culture and traditions of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean.

September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.

For more about National Hispanic Heritage month, be sure to check out Diversity Task Force Chair Melody Anderson's piece in next month's issue. And visit the Sierra Club's Spanish-language website.