Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month is held annually from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 and celebrates the culture and many contributions of Hispanic and Latinx Americans. 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 September 18, respectively.  

Hispanic refers to a person who is from, or a descendant of someone who is from, a Spanish-speaking country. 

Latino/a o Latinx refers to a person who is from, or a descendant of someone who is from, a country in Latin America. 

People identifying as Latino/a/x or Hispanic make up 14% of Oregon’s population. Unfortunately, Latino/a/x and Hispanic people in the United States disproportionately struggle with poverty, and often face complex barriers to accessing services, frequently related to language barriers and immigration status.  

The theme of this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month is Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation. The theme reinforces the need to ensure diverse voices and perspectives are welcomed in decision-making processes, thereby helping to build stronger communities and a stronger nation.  

How to celebrate: 

Learn about Hispanic and Latinx history Oregon from Travel Portland in collaboration with El Hispanic News 

Support local Hispanic and Latinx-owned businesses 

Attend a Hispanic Heritage Month event, like El Grito at Rose Quarter, El Grito at Shute Park o el Hispanic Heritage Celebration Dinner.  

Learn about Puentes, CCC’s culturally-specific program for Latinx and Hispanic communities, and other organizations making a difference like Familias en Acción, Oregon Latino Health Coalition, Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center, Centro Cultural y Adelante Mujeres.