By Jasminne Hernandez
Hispanic Heritage Month is an important celebration in the United States. For more than 40 years, Hispanics and non-Hispanics have commemorated this month with pride and joy, all while highlighting the importance of diversity throughout the country.
At Ravinia, it’s important that we present live music by musicians of all cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. The diversity that is brought to our stages ensures enriching and meaningful music experiences for everyone. Over the years we have had the honor of featuring such artists as Jorge Federico Osorio, Celia Cruz, Los Lobos, Gustavo Dudamel, Santana, Los Tigres Del Norte, Ana Bárbara, and so many others who have shared their language, culture, and love of music to thousands while bringing people together.
What is Hispanic Heritage Month?
Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Mexico, Spain, and Latin America.
The observation began in 1968 under the administration of President Lyndon Johnson as Hispanic Heritage Week. Years later, President Ronald Reagan proposed extending the commemoration to a month, and it was then signed into law on August 17, 1988.
When is Hispanic Heritage Month celebrated?
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15. The celebration begins in the middle of the month because September 15 marks the anniversary of the independence of Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua. These anniversaries, dating from 1821, are followed by Mexico’s Independence Day on September 16 and Chile’s on September 18, both from 1810.
A traditional Mexican folk dance performance at our annual Fiesta Ravinia celebration of Mexican culture
Why is it important?
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month allows everyone in the US to show its recognition and support of the work Hispanics are doing in helping this country. Along with recognizing the importance of Hispanics, the celebrations allow people to learn about one another’s backgrounds, experiences, and cultures.
How can you celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?
While Ravinia does not have public performances during this month, we recommend supporting charities that celebrate Hispanic heritage and culture such as our Fiesta Ravinia partners at the Mariachi Heritage Foundation. Other organizations worthy of your support include the National Museum of Mexican Art, The Hispanic Institute, and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund. You might also consider eating food from Latin-owned restaurants or visit cultural institutions like the Puerto Rican Art Museum in Humboldt Park and the National Museum of Mexican Art, which are fantastic places to visit and support throughout the month and beyond.
The National Museum of Mexican Art, located in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood