Hispanic Heritage is celebrated each year between the dates of September 15 to October 15. During this time people recognize the contribution of American citizens whose ancestors came from different Hispanic Heritage from around the world. Although this holiday only last a month here in the U.S., we need to continue raising awareness and recognizing contributions made by Hispanics all year round!
History has demonstrated the challenges Hispanis have and continue to face when arriving to the U.S. Despite these challenges, they have maintained growth and have been tenacious in succeeding in this country. Since 1970 the Hispanic population in the U.S. grew to 53 million in 2012, and continues to grow today. With such growth, Hispanics now have a lot of influence with the direction of this country. By 2016, 28 million Hispanics will be eligible to vote, and as the second largest, fastest growing, and youngest group of Americans, Hispanics hold the key to this country’s future. Not having to mention Hispanics also have one of the largest buying powers. They love to spend! With 1.5 trillion by end of 2015 and a projected 1.7 trillion growth by 2017, everyone should be taking notice.
Most importantly, Hispanics have made huge contributions to this country by taking on leading roles and have inspired many to follow their lead. Here are a few successful Hispanic leaders:
- Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina Supreme Court Justice in U.S. history.
- Oscar de la Hoya, the Mexican professional boxer who is well known in the sport industry.
- Jennifer Lopez, the famous Puerto Rican actress and singer is an inspiration in the entertainment world.
- Natalie Morales is a famous Hispanic American journalist from a Brazilian and Puerto Rican background.
- Luis W. Alvares a Hispanic American is Nobel Prize winner in Physics born in San Francisco.
- Julia Alvarez is a Dominican American well known author in poetry, a Novelist and essayist.
- Miguel Lopez Alegria from Spain is a veteran from 3 space shuttle missions and one International Space Station Mission.
- Cesar Chavez was a Mexican American farm worker, labor leader, and civil rights activist.
- Juan Pablo Montoya is a Colombian professional race car driver that has won multiple top 10 finishes for Champ Car, Nascar, IndyCar, and Formula 1.
- George Lopez is well known Mexican American comedian that brings laughter and joy to everyone!
To learn more about Hispanic Heritage month and how Hispanics have shaped this country, view this short video clip.
