Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

Since 1988 we have formally celebrated the rich heritage of the Hispanic population by recognizing September 15-October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month. "Hmmm. I wonder if I have any Hispanic heritage," you might cogitate. Well, according to the US Census Bureau, the term hispanic or latino is defined as:

"persons who trace their origin or descent to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Spanish speaking Central and South America countries, and other Spanish cultures. Origin can be considered as the heritage, nationality group, lineage, or country of the person or the person's parents or ancestors before their arrival in the United States. People who identify their origin as Hispanic or Latino may be of any race."

Results of the 2000 census showed that the total Hispanic population numbered 3.3 million. Because of acculturation and assimilation (Sound familiar? Think Comp I class.), influences from the Hispanic culture can be found in our food, fashion, language, art, architecture, literature, history, and social life.

Come by the library and look over our current book display which illustrates the significant contributions to these and other fields. But enjoy your burrito outside while you relax to the sounds of Paulo Mollo. (Suu-eeet.)

For more information, visit these websites (Why re-invent the wheel?):

• Library of Congress: National Hispanic Heritage Month
• Hispanic Heritage Foundation
• Evergreen State College: National Hispanic Heritage Month
• National Register of Historic Places: National Hispanic Heritage Month
• The History Channel: Hispanic Heritage Month
• Smithsonian Education: Hispanic Heritage Month
• US Dept. of Labor Wirtz Library: Hispanic Heritage Month

Image credit to Oak Ridge National Laboratory