Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

 

Image: An image that says “National Hispanic Heritage Month. September 15th to October 15th” In red, blue, green and black colors. Around the images are different Hispanic and Latino flags. 

September 15th to October 15th is Hispanic Heritage Month. Each year, the United States observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the history and cultures of people whose heritage are from Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. It was started 1968 by the U.S. Congress as Hispanic Heritage Week. It was expanded to the month of September in 1988.  

 

I asked three YLC members of Latino and/or Hispanic descent about what Hispanic Heritage Month means to them. 

 

 

Celeste Resendiz Torres, Second-Year Member 

"Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate my roots, recognize the achievements of my community, and honor the figures who have paved the way for future generations. " 

 

Angelo Santiago, Second-Year Member 

 

“Spanish Heritage month means a lot to someone like me who grew up in a predominantly Spanish household. It has taught me to have pride in my heritage as a Puerto Rican and how to enjoy life as much as I can.” 

 

Vanessa Ocana, YLC Chair   

 

“I am a proud Hispanic woman living with cerebral palsy, navigating life with the support of a walker and a wheelchair. I am thrilled to have earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, especially as the first in my immediate family to pursue higher education. This accomplishment is particularly meaningful, given that only 59% of Hispanic students with disabilities complete high school. 

I am passionate about celebrating the contributions of Hispanics with disabilities. For over 20 years, Dr. Victor Santiago Pineda has championed access and inclusion in the U.S. and around the world. He once said, ‘Accessibility is about making people experience whatever event, gathering, or knowledge without barriers.’ This empowering principle truly inspires me.” 

 

For those who celebrate, have a great Hispanic Heritage Month. Celebrate with pride! 

 

In Friendship, 

Michelle Yoshimine 

YLC Member, California