Every year from September 15 to October 19 we recognize and celebrate the achievements of, less talked about, prominent figures in the Latinx Community that have inspired and continue to inspire people all around the world. People in the United States and the rest of the world take the time to learn about the food, culture, and diversity of the many Hispanic communities. 

Originally observed as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1969, but after seeing that there was more room for improvement, it was extended to what we now know as Hispanic Heritage Month. Every year the month has a theme that they want to achieve. This year’s theme is UNIDOS: Inclusivity For A Stronger Nation. The countries included in Hispanic Heritage Month may be divided by different climates, with different cultures, and different dialects; but their diversity is what makes them strong. 

Our school is doing its part too. If you pay attention to the morning announcements, the National Honor Society is shining a spotlight on an influential Hispanic figure every day. The goal is to get away from the well-known Hispanic figures and acknowledge some less talked about ones. For example, Jovita Idár was a journalist who became the president of the newly-established League of Mexican Women. She then founded a free kindergarten while working in a hospital as an interpreter.

Learning about people other than Frida Kahlo, Cesar Chavez, and Roberto Clemente (even though they are important figures) expands your knowledge and may make you more interested in the culture and language of other countries in Latin America. 

In the end, it’s important that we pursue a deeper understanding of other cultures. Especially the cultures of people that have shaped the world we live in today. The barriers that have been trampled over by the people in the Hispanic community are something that everyone should take the time to learn about. We should care about it enough to do it outside the month of September and make it a point every day to learn and embrace every culture in the world while approaching them without prejudice and judgment.