National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15-October 15 to give recognition to the Hispanic and Latino history and culture, as well as the many contributions made to United States history and culture by the Hispanic American communities. Starting as a week-long celebration in 1968, it was expanded to a month in 1988. Why such strange dates, instead of a single month? Many Latin American countries celebrate their independence days during this time. September 15th alone is the independence day for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
The United States is home to over 60 million Latinos, nearly 19% of our total population. Hispanic people have been a part of our country from the very beginning, and continue to fuel our economy and enrich our culture as entrepreneurs, scientists, public servants, athletes, artists, entertainers, and much, much more. Our music, food, sports, art, architecture, and very history would be much the poorer without the presence and influence of Hispanic Americans. As the country continues to diversify, it's important for all of us to learn more about the Hispanic American experience. The library is a great place to do that! We not only have books to read, but also movies to watch and programs to attend. Here are some of the great programs happening this National Hispanic Heritage Month at SCCLD libraries:
Movie Night: West Side Story at Morgan Hill Library: Wednesday, September 17th at 6pm
Latinx Rock From the 1950s to the 1980s at Morgan Hill Library: Saturday, September 20th at 2pm
Book Discussion: Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez at Gilroy Library: Tuesday, September 30th at 7pm AND Friday, October 3rd at 10:15am
Virtual Author Talk: Smithsonian Educators discuss Nuestra América: Thursday, October 2nd at 11am
¡Viva! at the Library Featuring Singer/Songwriter Diana Gameros:
Morgan Hill Library: Saturday, October 4th at 11am
Gilroy Library: Saturday, October 4th at 2pm
Los Altos Library: Wednesday, October 8th at 7pm
