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Library of Congress Research Guides

National Hispanic Heritage Month: A Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide

Since 1968, the U.S. has celebrated a yearly national observance of Hispanic heritage, now called National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15). This guide provides the legislative history, proclamations, and laws related to this celebration.

Introduction

Carol M. Highsmith, photographer. In 2017 Buffalo, New York, artist and educator Betsy Casanas was invited by the city's Albright-Knox Public Art Initiative, the Hispanic Heritage Council, and the Rich Family Foundation to create what became this mural celebrating the contributions made by the region's Hispanic and Latinx communities. 2018. Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Division.

National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates and recognizes the contributions Hispanic Americans have made to American society and culture and honors five of our Central American neighbors who celebrate their independence in September.

The Law Library of Congress has prepared material with commentary and recommended resources for selected national observances and commemorative months. This guide provides a brief history of the laws and presidential proclamations which established National Hispanic Heritage Month.

For more information on National Hispanic Heritage Month, visit:

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