The National Hispanic Council on Aging is proud to welcome and celebrate another Hispanic Heritage Month. Every year, September 15th brings a sense of pride in the history and achievements of American Hispanics and Latinos, and their countries of origin. It is a time full of beauty and joy, marked by celebratory parades, parties, dancing, and excellent food—any aspect of our community’s diverse and rich culture that brings us joy.
Hispanic Heritage month began as a week, set by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968. The week would begin on September 15th, the date of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, and include September 16th and 18th, the independence days for Mexico and Chile respectively. In 1988, during Ronald Reagan’s presidency, it was expanded to a 30-day period, from September 15th to October 15th.
Hispanic Heritage Month 2024’s theme is one that remains close to our hearts and minds at the National Hispanic Council on Aging: “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” The United States Hispanic/Latino population is a driving force for change. We are trailblazers, innovators, and entrepreneurs. We are industrious in our desire to see our communities–our brothers, sisters, parents, grandparents, cousins, friends–grow and thrive despite incredible adversity.
NHCOA is an organization founded on the basis of improving the lives of Hispanic/Latino older adults, their families, and caregivers. The NHCOA vision is one of a society where Hispanic/Latino communities are able to prosper and live in comfort and dignity, throughout each phase of their life. That is the change we believe in, and the change we work to achieve. We are proud to occupy nearly the same tenure of American Hispanic and Latino pride, as that of Hispanic Heritage Month. NHCOA was first conceived in 1969, just one year after the introduction of Hispanic Heritage Month. As we reflect on over 50 years of service, we are struck by these +50 years of Hispanic Heritage Month, and the theme that it celebrates this year.
Hispanics and Latinos have a long history of making a difference in the United States. Hispanic Heritage Month is here and NHCOA has a full program of events and activities to celebrate! From our Latino Empowerment campaign, Cafecitos con NHCOA, webinars, and health fairs, to our 2024 Capitol Hill Briefing, we have something for everyone. Be sure to follow us on social media and stay connected so you don’t miss any of these great opportunities to engage and celebrate all the aspects of our Hispanic/Latino community!
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month 2024!
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