Multicultural KidDOS: National Hispanic Heritage Month

There is a never ending conversation in our household about defining our role and identity as a multicultural and bilingual family. Our children are part American and part Mexican. Never just Mexico and Spanish, or just the USA and English. So, how much of each is enough or sufficient. And how to allow them to develop their own national identity.

This month is the celebration of Hispanic Heritage. This brings peace to my mind. Knowing that there has been many that have walked this way and have found their place.

Below the definition of the celebration as described in the official government site:

"Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period."