National Hispanic Heritage Month
September 15 to October 15 is celebrated nationwide as National Hispanic Heritage Month. It highlights the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic, Latinx and Latin American communities. During this month and throughout the year, Purdue University highlights the accomplishments, contributions, history of Latinx communities and Latinx Boilermakers.
History of National Hispanic Heritage Month
In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson observed Hispanic Heritage Week. Twenty years later, this week was expanded to a 30-day period (September 15th-October 15th) by President Ronald Reagan. National Hispanic Heritage Month was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.
September 15th is the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively. Día de la Raza is October 12th.
National Hispanic Heritage Month Committee
The Purdue University National Hispanic Heritage Month Committee established in 2020 meets regularly to organize initiatives celebrating and uplifting Latinx Boilermakers.
Guadalupe Acosta Roberts, College of Liberal Arts
Dr. Rodrigo Bañuelos, College of Science
Wilfrido Cruz, University Residences
Carina Olaru, Latino Cultural Center—Office of the Provost
Jesus Romero, Leadership Development and Latino Faculty and Staff Association co-chair