History

In September 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week. The observance was expanded in 1988 to a month-long celebration (Sept. 15- Oct. 15). America celebrates the culture and traditions of the U.S. residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of the Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18 respectively. It ends on October 15, just after the observance of the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus.

In Cincinnati, this is our fifth year observing and celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. Events have grown in number and variety over this time (see photos of previous years in Photos tab). As in past years, we have events of a serious,educational nature such as the City of Immigrants play (to be performed at the Freedom Center on September 22) as well as celebrations such as the opening day on September 15 where the Reds put on Hispanic Heritage Day at the Great American Ballpark. Also on September 15, there will be a very special night on Fountain Square where we will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for most Salsa Dancing couples. We encourage you to attend and be a part of these and the many other Hispanic Heritage Month activities. Create your own event too and share it with us!

The local media, both in English and Spanish, also help celebrate this month by covering the events as well as by airing public service announcements encouraging tristaters to "Get to Know Your Hispanic Neighbors." Gracias to all of them!