From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanics from all over the world come together to celebrate their achievements and influence in the United States. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time when many Hispanic countries commemorate their independence and recognize their contributions to society.
Acknowledging the world today makes people realize that society has been established from a wide range of diversity and culture. When it comes to music, art, politics and much more, Hispanics have left a remarkable mark on the way communities are shaped.
Mrs. Macdonald, a Hispanic teacher at Aliso Niguel, states, “They [Hispanics] bring cultural experiences and traditions to our school and community that are very valuable and enrich the lives of everyone.”
Notable contributions have been made by artists such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Kahlo and Rivera were Mexicans that created meaningful pieces of art through paintings or murals. Their artworks were created in Mexico, yet their talent and motives were so influential that it inspired artists in the United States.
Selena Quintanilla-Perez, Shakira Ripol and Ramón Rodríguez are Hispanic singers that brought their own unique style of singing from their native countries to the United States, inspiring thousands of new listeners from all over the country. Their incorporation of Spanish and English in their songs intertwines the culture in the United States and Hispanic countries.
Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta worked together as civil rights activists to improve the working conditions of migrant workers. They both founded the United Farm Workers Union that has currently helped a great number of workers in the United States to maintain healthy working environments.
Many Hispanics have helped build a bridge for other Latinos to initiate their own careers and dreams in the United States. They have also inspired and motivated not just Hispanics, but all sorts of individuals.
Erika Montes (10), a Hispanic student at Aliso Niguel, shares, “Hispanic Heritage Month is really important to me because I want people to know the hard work Hispanic people have done for our country. It gives me an opportunity to appreciate my own ancestors for their accomplishments.”
Realizing the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month is important to Hispanic Americans because it gives them a sense of pride and unity with their culture. By acknowledging the diversity of Hispanics at Aliso Niguel, students can help create a healthier and stronger environment where everyone can feel included through their cultural traits.
“Educating students on their Hispanic culture has helped them appreciate who they are and their cultural heritage. It has also validated their experiences and created a welcoming environment where we all respect and learn from each other,” shares Mrs. Macdonald.
Students at Aliso Niguel have opportunities to engage in their traditions and customs through Spanish classes and clubs provided by the school. Spanish plays a major role in the lives of many Hispanic Americans by helping them connect to their ancestral ties that originated from Spain.
Students can contribute to Hispanic culture by educating themselves on the many different global and societal issues Hispanos may endure in their community. Hispanic Heritage Month honors the arrival of traditions, foods and customs from all over Latin America and Spain to unite the millions of Hispanics living in America today.
