Hispanic Heritage Month

The Hispanic Heritage Month 2021 theme, chosen by the National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers (NCHEPM) in Washington, DC: “Esperanza: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope.” The theme invites us to celebrate Hispanic Heritage and to reflect on how great our tomorrow can be if we hold onto our resilience and hope.

What is National Hispanic Heritage Month?

In September 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, observed during the week that included Sept. 15 and Sept. 16. In 1989, Congress expanded the observance to a month-long celebration (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) of 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. Sept. 15 is 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 Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively. Traditions, especially those that strengthen cultural understanding and embrace our country’s diversity, can play more meaningful roles if we all take time to honor the people and history behind them. I encourage the Abington Community and our students to become engaged in participating in activities throughout this month.
 
The following featured links below are for learning about and honoring the Hispanic and LatinX culture. Let’s share in this annual tribute by celebrating the generations of Hispanic-Americans who have positively enriched our nation and society: Stay informed of additional events taking place at Abington, emails will be sent throughout the month as new events are added.

PSU Abington Campus celebrating 2021 National Hispanic Heritage Month:

Sponsored by Aneesah S. Smith, Director, Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (ODEI)

  • Afro-LatinX Event — Sept. 15, 12:15-1:15 p.m., Room 215 Sutherland. Kick off Hispanic Heritage Month at Penn State Abington by talking about what it means to be Afro-LatinX.
  • LatinX Panel Discussion — Sept. 28, 3-4 p.m., Lubert Commons. The Penn State Abington Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will present a panel of speakers who will discuss their experiences and their culture as well as present day support for local LatinX students.

Philadelphia and Penn State University events honoring 2021 National Hispanic Heritage Month (Virtual and distanced Events):

Check out Hispanic Heritage Month Unique PBS Documentaries

Hispanic Heritage Month Videos:

Virtual Resources & Information on Hispanic Heritage Month, Arts and Culture

Books to Read during Hispanic Heritage Month: