How much do you know about Hispanic Heritage Month?
While Lyndon B. Johnson actually began the tradition as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, the observation was expanded by Ronald Regan twenty years later to run for an entire month (woohoo!). Therefore, as of August 17th, 1988, it has been enacted a law that this time is nationally dedicated to the celebration and appreciation of Hispanic cultures.
This year, and every year since ‘88, National Hispanic Heritage Month will officially be kicking off on September 15th and will run through October 15th. The start date marks a significant day for five Latin American countries - Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua - because it is the anniversary of their collective independence (double woohoo!!) from Spain. In fact, at least four other Latin American countries including Mexico and Chile have their independence day in September! In honor of all this delicious freedom, the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration runs from September all the way through the middle of October. So let’s get down to celebrating and bring some awareness to this fabulous occasion.
Okay - actually wait, before we get down, let’s talk numbers. Believe it or not, Hispanic people represent nearly 20% of the US population. This makes them the second-largest racial group in the country, with about 60.5 million people identifying as Hispanic or Latinx. Those numbers are extremely impressive, but what may be even more impressive is that an entire 13% of Americans speak Spanish at home. That’s equivalent to about 37 million people across the country, or almost a whole seventh of the population.
What's more, in states such as California, Texas, and New Mexico, the population of Hispanic people actually approaches the majority. And yet, despite these staggering statistics, Latinx people are a largely marginalized group with very poor representation. As is true of most minorities, they continue to suffer from societal inequalities in our modern world and must persevere for justice.
In observing Hispanic Heritage Month this September, attention, and awareness can be brought to the rich cultures that comprise this group, as well as a show of appreciation for their vast contributions. In doing so, a platform is given to these voices which are so often stifled, and an excellent celebration of their ability, art, values (and more) can commence!
There’s an unbelievable number of great ways you can involve yourself in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, and all of them are as fun as they are valuable. If you aren't sure where to begin, use this as a resource, and know that any way that you can show your appreciation for a Hispanic-owned business would be an excellent place to start. In directing your funds and other resources toward small businesses owned by people of Hispanic descent, you are helping to grow their platform, and enabling them to keep their place. Doing this means creating more opportunities for these business owners to improve their credit, own property, and build their bank accounts - while this may seem important for all people, it is imperative to minority groups.
Remember, spending your money certainly isn't the only way to show your appreciation - you don’t only need to buy from them! Other wonderful ways to demonstrate support include spreading the word and telling your family and friends about their contribution, or writing online reviews to promote the quality of their business and draw in more customers.
So, if you’re looking to raise awareness and say thanks, get out there and eat some fabulous Hispanic Cuisine, appreciate the work of Hispanic artists and musicians, take a Salsa class, donate and bring awareness to charities - the options are endless, and they’re all good. Need a place to start? Check out these!
PAPEL PICADO BY YREINA FLORES
You won’t believe these traditional Mexican banners known as papel picado! They are made of fine, often brightly colored paper, and are intricately cut to depict all sorts of messages and designs. Here are some which are delicately made by artist Yreina Flores, and are available on her Etsy shop - perfect for weddings, parties, alters, or just to add color to a room!
LA VECINA RESTAURANT
I was looking for a great Hispanic family-owned spot to eat in Queens, and then spent 30 minutes lost in this menu dreaming about eating their food, so, it absolutely made the top of the list. If you’re around Astoria Queens, you absolutely must check out La Vecina. Rather than representing just one culture in their foods, they demonstrate a Latin fusion with mastery. Their menu covers a huge variety of incredible flavors, from building your own arepa bowl, yuca croquettes, sweet plantains with cheese, and the Columbian classic Bandeja has done in half a dozen different ways. I can’t say enough about this place - please go. Just please do it. Find them on seamless.
MIL MUNDOS
Need something to read? Find what you're looking for at Mil Mundos, a “Bushwick Activist Spanglish Bookstore” (what an absolute treat). Many of their titles are available in both English and Spanish (catering to what is actually the dominant language spoken in Bushwick - Spanish! Just saying), and feature topics that celebrate, appreciate, and bring awareness to Black, Latinx, and Indigenous heritages. You can buy from their storefront, or just search the title you’re looking for on their website. Not only is this an excellent way to support a Hispanic-owned business, but it’s also an excellent way to gain some resources to further educate yourself on the cultures and contributions of marginalized people - a total win-win!
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month At Most!
Finally, let’s talk about a way to get EVERYONE involved in a celebration of Hispanic culture and, more specifically, Mexico! Seriously, companies like Kits by Food Craft plans and hosts virtual and on-site events, ships curated DIY kits that have all the materials you’ll need for your teambuilding event. Check out our
Coquito + Sip and Latin Rhythm
Spice up your virtual gatherings! Choose between crafting the festive Puerto Rican Coquito, a creamy coconut delight, or diving into a lively Sip and Latin Rhythm session, where you'll mix tropical drinks and learn beginner-friendly dance moves. Both events offer a vibrant taste of Latin culture and guaranteed fun!
Paint and Meet Llamas + Piñata Making
Dive into the fun of Piñata making, complete with authentic Mexican candies and cultural storytelling. Or, opt for a relaxing Paint and Meet Llamas session, where you'll customize a llama planter and maybe even get a virtual visit from a friendly llama! Both events include all necessary materials and expert guidance for a memorable experience.
Spiced Cocktails and Mocktails + Hot Sauce Making
Dive into flavor with our interactive virtual experiences! Choose between crafting vibrant, personalized Hot Sauces using authentic Mexican chilies, or mastering the art of Spiced Cocktails and Mocktails, featuring seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Whether you're craving fiery creations or cozy, spiced drinks, we'll guide you through fun, engaging sessions filled with expert tips and delicious discoveries.
What’s even better is that the creator and founder of Food Craft is a Filipina - in supporting Food Craft this September, you’re not only appreciating and showing awareness for Hispanic Heritage Month with the trip to Mexico, but you’re supporting a woman of color owned business-building opportunities for other women. Now tell me, what could be better?
At Kits by Food Craft, we provide innovative and engaging virtual teambuilding experiences. We've helped over 1000+ dream teams globally foster stronger connections and boost morale through our unique virtual events.
As an AAPI woman-owned small business, Kits by Food Craft is passionate about promoting cultural awareness and diversity through food, drink, and craft experiences. We believe that shared experiences bring people together, making workplace celebrations more meaningful and inclusive. Learn more about our story here.
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Schedule Free Event Planning: Let’s create a custom experience tailored to your team’s interests.
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Showing your appreciation is imperative, and focusing on giving back to their communities is an excellent way to do it. Remember that celebrating this September will absolutely help bring awareness to the cause, but should in no way just be a trend. Regardless of the month, supporting minorities and marginalized groups of people is a lifestyle 100% worth living, 100% of the time! Happy Hispanic Heritage Month y’all!
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