The annual observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month is just around the corner, starting September 15 and running through October 15. The month is a time to celebrate the contributions and rich culture that Hispanic and Latino Americans have made, and continue to make, across all facets of our society, including arts, politics, business, and the military.

President Lyndon Johnson originally proclaimed the observance in September 1968 as a week-long celebration, but U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres of California, under the Reagan Administration, introduced legislation in 1988 that expanded it to a full month. The 15th of September marks the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, and kicks off the festivities, followed by independence celebrations across Latin America from week to week, commemorating each country’s independence.

If you are looking for ways to celebrate, be sure to look for events in your local area. And if you live in the NYC area, check out the September 14-19 New York Latino Film Festival. For a variety of other ideas how you can observe Hispanic heritage, see this Oprah Daily piece with 12 Hispanic Heritage Month Activities to Try This Year. Learn more about the history of this event and find helpful resources and educational materials on the National Hispanic Heritage Month website. Learn about outstanding Hispanic and Latino individuals on the National Park Service website. Join us in celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month!