Happy Hispanic/Latino/Latinx Heritage Month!

National Hispanic/Latino/Latinx Heritage Month is coming in full swing beginning Sept. 15 and ending Oct. 15. This month is dedicated to teaching the history, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic Americans. This month is one that should be recognized and used as a learning experience for all. 

Not to be comparative but as an example, because since I myself am not Hispanic, this month for those of Hispanic descent comes off a lot as Black History Month does. While it is an entire month of recognizing important figures and learning about genuine history and the representation does matter, it seems forced in a way. All year round there is little to nothing that’s taught about Hispanics (unless you’re in a course designed specifically for that) and most information that you learn in lower-level schooling is just a watered-down version of what really took place. It’s important to recognize them all year round, not just when certain days come around. 

The original intentions of the month were to shine a light of humanity by saying that they have people worth learning about too. Also to give out knowledgeable information to prevent ignorance. This has turned into learning about the same figures every year, while they are all important it would be nice to hear some names you haven’t before, and a month of forced representation. 

This National Hispanic/Latino/Latinx heritage month I hope everyone gains some new knowledge and keeps the learning going throughout the year. There will be a Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month Kickoff and Interactive Presentation in the SAC MEZZ on Sept. 12 for an ICE event. Make sure to make an appearance! And to those who celebrate, enjoy the month, it is yours!