By Sylvia Cedillo
Waller County schools, local governments, and communities will observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. The decades-old recognition encourages in-depth exploration of the histories, cultures and contributions of Latinos whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. National Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 when Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim a National Hispanic Heritage Week. In 1988, Congress expanded the celebration for 31 days calling it National Hispanic Heritage Month.
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively.
Waller County’s fast-growing population includes Hispanics from all over the globe. The 2020 Census reports Hispanics comprise 30% of the county’s population. Numerous Hispanic-owned businesses operate in the county and new residents are settling in by building homes and joining the property tax rolls. Municipal sales tax revenue has also grown with Hispanics’ every-day purchases in our communities.
To learn more about Hispanic culture, check out these Internet sites:
- National Archives and Records Administration
- National Endowment for the Humanities
- National Park Service
- Smithsonian Education – Hispanic Heritage Month
- Books: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/g34076592/books-by-hispanic-authors/
- Essential films: https://www.digitaltrends.com/movies/netflix-hispanic-heritage-month-lineup-2020/
Waller County Democratic Club 