Chicano/Latino Heritage Month 2012-2013
During this month the cultures and tradition of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean are celebrated.
Programs are planned in the month of October at Santa Clara University.
Click here for the calendar of events.
1968 - President Lyndon B. Johnson was authorized by Congress to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage week.
1988 - The observance was expanded to a month-long celebration (Sept. 15-Oct. 15).
Many Latin American countries celebrate their independence in the months of September and October. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua all celebrate their independence on September 15. September 16 is Mexico's independence day and September 18th is the independence day for Chile. El Dia de la Raza (Columbus Day) is observed on October 12th.
Celebration of Chicano/Latino (or Hispanic) Heritage Month includes all people with ancestry from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, Spain, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
The 2012 national theme for Hispanic Heritage Month is:
"Diversity United, Building America's Future Today"
This theme promotes the benefits of a united and diverse workforce by encouraging a reflection of Hispanic American contributions in the development of our Nation.
Ismael Martinez, Chairman of the Council, announced the theme, stating “The challenges faced by the Hispanic community to find Federal employment is a serious concern that will require multiple organizations to unify their efforts to increase the participation rate of Hispanics in the Federal government. This theme reflects our need to come together as one to build a future that is inclusive of our Hispanic talent.”
The theme is selected by the National Council of Hispanic Program Managers with the help of a wide variety of contributions from interested parties.
(Information from the National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers)
