Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month in 2024

National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) is a time to celebrate the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latinx/e communities across the U.S. In the Pacific Northwest (PNW), you can find a range of events and activities that highlight these cultures. Here are some ideas on how to celebrate:

1. Attend Cultural Festivals and Events
Many cities host special events during Hispanic Heritage Month, including:

• Festivals: Look for local Hispanic festivals that feature music, dancing, and food from various Latin American countries.
• Parades: Attend parades that celebrate Latin American independence days, which often fall during this period (e.g., Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica).

2. Learn About Hispanic and Latinx/e History

• Read about the contributions of Hispanic and Latinx/e figures in history. Learn about activists like César Chávez, cultural icons like Frida Kahlo, or leaders like Dolores Huerta.
• Watch Documentaries on topics such as the Chicano Movement, Latin American independence, the Puerto Rican independence movement and other movements throughout the Caribbean, or the impact of immigration on Hispanic communities.

3. Explore Hispanic and Latinx/e Art

• Visit museums or art exhibits showcasing Latin American art, from traditional to contemporary.
• Look for murals and public art by Hispanic artists in your community.
• Explore online galleries or virtual exhibits from Latin American museums.
• Look for pop-up galleries or cultural art exhibits that showcase Latinx/e artists’ work across various mediums.

4. Cook Traditional Hispanic Dishes

• Try making Latin American dishes such as tacos, empanadas, arepas, paella, or tamales.
• Attend a cooking class that focuses on traditional Hispanic recipes or host a Latin-themed dinner with friends and family.
• Watch YouTube tutorials or take virtual cooking classes for authentic Hispanic cuisine.

5. Read Books by Hispanic Authors
Explore literature by Hispanic authors like:

• Gabriel García Márquez (One Hundred Years of Solitude)
• Isabel Allende (The House of the Spirits)
• Julia Alvarez (How the García Girls Lost Their Accents)
• Consider poetry, fiction, or non-fiction that explores the Latinx experience. You can find more recommendations by clicking here.

6. Attend Cultural Performances

• Look for dance performances such as folklórico or salsa performances. There may be local Latinx/e dance troupes or community organizations putting on shows during this month.
• Attend music concerts featuring mariachi, reggaeton, or Latin jazz bands in local venues like the Oregon Symphony or smaller clubs in Seattle.

7. Support Latinx/e-Owned Businesses

• Explore shops, bookstores, and businesses owned by members of the Latinx/e community. You can often find lists of these businesses through local chambers of commerce or cultural organizations.
• Consider buying artwork, clothing, or handmade crafts that reflect the heritage of Latin America.

8. Engage in Educational Workshops or Lectures

• Many libraries, universities, and community centers host educational events, such as panel discussions, lectures, and workshops about Hispanic heritage, history, and contributions to the U.S.

9. Volunteer or Donate to Latinx/e Causes

• Support organizations that focus on Hispanic and Latinx/e communities, such as those promoting education, civil rights, or immigration reform.
• Volunteer with local Hispanic community centers or non-profits that serve Latinx/e populations like El Centro de la Raza (Seattle, WA): A nonprofit that offers social services and cultural program, and is the location of SJF’s Changemakers Summit!