Every year, in mid-September, it is common to encounter advertisements, products, and activities dedicated to Hispanic Heritage Month. But do you know how this celebration began in the United States?
In 1968, during President Lyndon Johnson’s administration, this observance began as a week of events to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic immigrants to this country. Later, under a law enacted on August 17, 1988, the celebration was extended to a full month.
The selection of September 15 as the start of Hispanic Heritage Month marks the anniversary of independence for many Latin American countries,including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Later in the month, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on September 16 and 18, respectively.
At Harris County Precinct 4, we recognize the voices of this community that work together to make our county a better place. With a population of nearly 1.2 million residents, we take pride in being one of the most diverse precincts in the county. Thanks to the involvement of over half a million Hispanics from different nationalities and under the leadership of a Commissioner with Mexican roots, we are aware of the significant contributions these families make to Houston.
To celebrate this wealth of stories and identities, we have spoken with individuals who proudly represent us and demonstrate the strength of diverse perspectives and experiences.
The Land of Opportunities
Houston Dash midfielder Bárbara Olivieri acknowledged how significant it has been for her family to migrate to Houston.
“My parents came so that my brother and I would have greater opportunities than in the country they came from,” said Olivieri. “I feel like I always carry that pride with me.”
Olympic boxer Raúl Márquez shared that perspective.
“I was able to become an Olympian on this team,” said Márquez. “Besides being a world champion, I am now a commentator on different networks, in both Spanish and English. What I want to emphasize to the youth is that no matter what you want to do, just keep working hard.”
Heritage Endures
“I feel very proud to be Hispanic in Houston because I feel like I’m part of the culture,” said activist Sandra Rodríguez, president of the Gulfton Super Neighborhood. For her, “the diversity [and] the culture we bring is essential for the city to succeed as well.”
This sense of social integration also stems from language. This is how Houston Dynamo defender Franco Escobar saw it.
“It’s always nice to meet people who speak Spanish. Generally, when you run into people from South America, there is a connection. It’s a point of pride” said Escobar.
His teammate, Ezequiel Ponce, agreed.
“It’s nice to always carry the culture, my country. I’m proud to be Argentine. Everywhere I go, I always try to bring a little piece of it with me,” said Ponce.
This month, under the motto “You are Hispanic, you are culture. Embrace your heritage!” we aim to raise awareness about the value that diversity brings to our Precinct.
Join us at the festival we’ve organized to honor Hispanic heritage! Commissioner Lesley Briones and her team at Precinct 4 invite you this Saturday, September 28, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., to Bayland Park (6400 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77074) for food trucks, mariachis, piñatas, children’s crafts, face painting, cultural performances, pet adoptions, vaccinations, and much more. It will be a great experience to share with your children, family, and loved ones! Follow us on our social media for the surprises we have in store.