Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates Hispanic and Latino culture, traditions, and history, taking place from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. At Schreiber, the recognition has involved many of the school’s clubs and a few outside organizers, spreading music and inviting students and staff to participate in various activities.
“Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. It helps bring awareness to the diverse cultural backgrounds and traditions that have shaped not only the United States but also the world. By recognizing these contributions, we foster a more inclusive environment, promote understanding, and encourage pride in one’s heritage. At our school, it’s especially important because it helps our Latino population feel like they belong and that the school community values and cares to highlight the accomplishments and values of their culture,” said Spanish teacher Ms. Marilyn Gonzalez-Montes.
Hispanic Heritage Month dates back to 1968, under President Lyndon B. Johnson, when it was celebrated for only a week. It was extended to a month, from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. The holiday was enacted into law on Aug. 17 of the same year.
The month-long holiday begins on Sept. 15 because it marks the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile have independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.
Recognizing people with ancestry from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America, Hispanic Heritage Month looks to promote education, unity, visibility, inspiration, and the appreciation, understanding, and recognition of Hispanic communities, and their impacts on the U.S/ over generations.
The World Language, ENL, FACS, and art departments, along with the I-Culture Club and the Foreign Language Honor Society, organized a list of activities for the whole month, including colorful face painting, traditional games, and an introduction to the world of Latin cinema. Latin music was played along with energetic dance performances and spirited competitions that displayed iconic Hispanic figures. Different classes also promoted Hispanic heritage.
“For FACS, we’re also trying to help spread awareness about Hispanic Heritage. We’re making a variety of foods to celebrate Hispanic culture,” said senior Nico Coccarelli, who handed out samples of different Hispanic cuisines around the school for students to try.
Many Foreign Language teachers also spent classes sharing Hispanic culture with their students. Students participated in different games and activities during their class time on the track. Others learned traditional Latin dance styles such as Merengue and Bachata in the auditorium.
“I think it’s really interesting to learn about other cultures. Ms. Gonzalez took our Spanish class to the track a couple weeks ago to play different Hispanic outdoor games in celebration. I thought this was really fun, and I learned a lot,” said freshman Kamila Ko.
Other teachers also organized different activities to promote Hispanic culture.
“My teacher Ms. Catia Parletta had us do a unit on Hispanic people and culture in class. We were each assigned a person to research and present to the class. It was a very fun unit, and I find Hispanic Heritage Month to be a great way to recognize notable people of Hispanic heritage and to celebrate their achievements,” said freshman Emily Mark.
The Port Washington Public Library also held a variety of events, including a “Contemporary Female Hispanic Authors You Should Know” exhibit from Sept. 15 to Oct. 13, an art lecture with Thomas Germano on Mexican prints on Sept. 19, a Fiesta in the park on Oct. 6, a Sandwiched In with Sal St. George lecture on Oct. 11, and a Hispanic Culture Festival on Oct 17.
“Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the accomplishments of and celebrates Hispanics in the United States. The holiday brings awareness and teaches about cultures and traditions. In teaching, Hispanic Heritage Month promotes tolerance and acceptance,” said Spanish teacher Ms. Nicole Mellone.
Through the efforts of many of the departments at Schreiber, including the Foreign Language Department, along with many of the school’s clubs, Hispanic Heritage Month has had a great impact at Schreiber.
“Hispanic Heritage Month at Schreiber used to be a whole-day event open to all school members. It is my understanding that there used to be more involvement and support to make the celebration one that offered multiple opportunities for participants to experience Hispanic culture. It would be great if we could go back to that in the future,” said Spanish teacher Ms. Maria Lovissi.
Overall, Hispanic Heritage Month has been a great celebration at Schreiber High School, enabling many students to learn more about Hispanic culture, and allowing them to gain a new appreciation for it.