September/October 2021

Hispanic communities — the largest ethnic minority group in the United States, according to Pew Research Center — have made enormous contributions to the history, culture and achievements of the United States. In celebration of Hispanic heritage, the United States honors Hispanic Americans with 30 days of federally recognized celebration known as National Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place each year from September 15th to October 15th.

According to the National Hispanic Heritage Month government website, September is a significant month in Hispanic history because it coincides with the anniversary of independence from Spain for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua (which celebrate their independence on September 15th), Mexico (September 16th), Chile (September 17th) and Belize (September 21st).

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage began as a week-long event in 1968, when a bill sponsored by Rep. Edward R. Roybal of Los Angeles was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, legislation sponsored by Rep. Esteban Edward Torres of Pico Rivera (and amended by Senator Paul Simon) expanded the week into a month-long celebration when the bill was signed by President Ronald Regan.

This year, the theme of National Hispanic Heritage Month is “Esperanza: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope.” Learn more about the contributions of Hispanic Americans and the history of Hispanic Heritage Month by checking out our library of resources below — and celebrate along with your family by attending any of the local or virtual events!

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

LOCAL EVENTS

RESOURCES FOR HISPANIC FAMILIES




March 14, 2024, Board of Commission Meeting Summary

March 14, 2024, Board of Commission Meeting Summary

Ruel Nolledo | Freelance Writer March 27, 2024 The First 5 LA Board of Commissioners convened in person and virtually on March 14, 2024. The agenda included the approval of a new Early Care & Education agreement, an authorization for First 5 LA staff to receive...

New Study Examines Developmental Concerns of Families in WIC

New Study Examines Developmental Concerns of Families in WIC

 Ann Isbell | First 5 LA Health Systems Program Officer March 27, 2024 Because parents are deeply attuned to their children, they are often the first to notice a developmental concern. But when they have questions about their child’s developmental progress, many...

March 14, 2024, Board of Commission Meeting Summary

February 8, 2024, Board of Commissioners Meeting Summary

Fraser Hammersly | Digital Content Specialist February 29, 2024 First 5 LA's Board of Commissioners convened in person on Feb. 8, 2024. The agenda included the election of chair and vice chair positions; presentations on First 5 LA’s building and capital improvement...