Mangano Recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano today issued the following statement in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated from September 15th through October 15th.

“Every fall Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th with celebrations of the culture, history and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. I would like to join the Nation in honoring Americans of Hispanic descent and pay tribute to their efforts in strengthening and nourishing our country’s history, commerce, cultural identity, and resolve,” said County Executive Mangano. “This month and every month, let us recognize the numerous contributions of the Hispanic community and celebrate their continued success and prosperity.”

On September 17, 1968, the United States Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim the week that included September 15th and September 16th as National Hispanic Heritage Week. The agreement authorized the President to issue an annual proclamation encouraging people of the United States, “especially the educational community,” to observe the Heritage Week. In 1988, the 100th Congress expanded Hispanic Heritage Week to a full month, beginning September 15th and ending October 15th. These dates correspond to the independence days of several Latin American countries. September 15th marks the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico’s independence is September 16th, Chile’s is September 18th, and October 12th is celebrated as Dia de la Raza.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated with ceremonies and activities in corporations, government agencies, community organizations, schools, and churches. It is a time to honor the rich diversity of the Hispanic American community and educate oneself about the history, culture, and traditions of people who have made, and continue to make, remarkable contributions to society.

The Hispanic community has played a vital role in the moments and movements that have helped to shape our country. They have enriched our culture and brought creativity and innovation to everything from sports to the sciences and from the arts to our economy. Hispanics have served with honor and distinction in every conflict since the Revolutionary War, and they have made invaluable contributions through their service to our country. According to the Census Bureau, Hispanics are the fastest-growing minority group in the United States. The Hispanic population is projected to nearly triple, from almost 47 million to 133 million, from 2008 to 2050, and will jump from 15 percent to 30 percent of the population.

“Today, more than ever, Hispanic Americans play an integral role in shaping the American experience,” said Mangano. “The influence of Hispanic culture is reflected in every aspect of American life, from politics to education to music and television.”