Each year from September 15th to October 15th, we honor Hispanic Heritage Month with celebrations of Hispanic and Latino history and culture. The Latino presence in the US goes back hundreds of years, and Latinos have been fundamental in making our country what it is today with significant contributions to the fields of art & entertainment, athletics, sciences, public service, activism, and so many more. According to the US Census Bureau, in 2022 the Latino population sat at just over 60 million in America, making up about 19% of the total US population.
Hispanic vs. Latino
As a reminder, the term 'Hispanic' refers to someone with ancestry from a primarily Spanish-speaking country. 'Latino' (or Latina) refers to a person with origins from anywhere in Latin America (Mexico, South, and Central America) and the Caribbean. Both terms are used to specify ethnicity and can be used in reference to a number of racial groups. To simplify, 'Latino' is a term that refers to geography while 'Hispanic' is a term that refers to language. Not every Latin American country speaks primarily Spanish.
For educational resources, virtual exhibits, ways to celebrate, and more information about Hispanic Heritage Month, I encourage you to visit the National Museum of the American Latino's Hispanic Heritage Month Resource page, opens a new window.
Visit our Hispanic Heritage Month page, opens a new window for events celebrating Hispanic and Latino history and culture. As always, look for our custom-created Hispanic Heritage Month sticker and Resource Sheet, opens a new window at a Stark Library near you!
¡Feliz mes de la herencia hispana!
- Article by Hannah V., Library Specialist at Main Library, Adult Services
