Between September 15 and October 15, the United States commemorates the Hispanic Heritage Month, a period dedicated to honoring the contributions of Hispanics and Latinos to the culture, society and history of this country. During these four weeks, communities come together to highlight the diversity and cultural richness that Hispanics bring to the nation.
The origin of This commemoration dates back to 1968, under the mandate of President Lyndon B. Johnson, but at that time it only lasted a week and began on September 15. Nearly two decades later, Hispanic Heritage Week was extended to a month under Ronald Reagan.
This is an opportunity not to lose sight of the fact that every day Latinos constitute an increasingly larger part of the population of the United States and that through their cooperation in wars, their contributions to the economy as workers or as entrepreneurs, their participation in academic, scientific, artistic, cultural, sports activities, among others, have contributed to the growth of the North American country.
In Hispanic Heritage Month, meet 5 Latinos who have become inspiration
Through its activities in various fields, many Latinos have left their mark on the history of the United States and this month is precisely the opportunity to make those achievements visible. He learns below the inspiring story of five Latinos.
Sonia Sotomayor
Daughter of Puerto Rican parents and born in the Bronx, New York, Sonia Sotomayor managed to overcome countless obstacles to become the first Hispanic justice on the United States Supreme Court and a role model for future generations of Latinas interested in the law and Justice. She has dedicated her efforts to working tirelessly to protect rights and justice in American society.
Ellen Ochoa
Of Mexican descent and born in Los Angeles, California, Ellen Ochoa became the first Hispanic astronaut to travel to space. Her first trip aboard the shuttle Discovery took place in 1993. Her dedication and passion for science and technology led her to become director of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, where she continues to be a reference for young Latinos interested in Follow your dreams in science and space exploration.
Emilio and Gloria Estefan
Originally from Cuba, the couple made up of Emilio and Gloria Estefan moved to Miami, where they managed to transcend cultural borders and become music superstars, fusing pop and Latin music. His music not only achieved success, but also paved the way for new artists. Additionally, the Estefans are known for their activism and philanthropy, using their influence to support humanitarian causes.
Sylvia Rivera
In the fight for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and civil rights, this tireless defender, of Puerto Rican and Venezuelan descent, became a reference in the context of the Stonewall riots in 1969, a turning point in the fight for rights of LGBTQ+ people. A legacy she lives on in the continued fight for equality and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community. Her work also included founding Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), an organization that supported transgender and homeless people.
J Balvin
Originally from Medellín, Colombia, J Balvin has been recognized as an innovator in the world of Latin music. He has worked tirelessly to expand the boundaries of Latin music, through collaborations with artists from different genres and fusing sounds that have resonated around the world. Additionally, J Balvin has been an advocate for mental health and well-being, inviting people to speak openly about these issues and encouraging others to seek help when they need it.
These five stories are just examples of the many people who have left their mark and have enriched the culture and history of the United States. This Hispanic Heritage Month, let us remember that, regardless of our origin, we all have the power to influence and transform the world.
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This Hispanic Heritage Month, let us remember the importance of celebrate the diversity and contributions of Latinos in the United States. Not only those who appear in the major media contribute to the growth of this great nation, but also through daily work, each person has contributed.
In it # Movement We are committed to building societies in which we all have the same rights and embrace people regardless of their nationality. The Latino community is highly vulnerable to suffering sexual abuse and our work is aimed at protecting them, using education as a prevention tool.
and discover how you can so that together let’s protect our children.