Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
The theme of this year’s HHM is “Pioneers of Change.” It perfectly captures the trailblazing spirit of leaders in our community. Let’s celebrate their work and their contributions.Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15th to October 15th, is a time to honor the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic Americans across the U.S. While SDMN celebrates Alaska’s Latino community year-round, this month offers a special spotlight on the community’s role in shaping the state’s resilience and uniqueness. This is especially captured by this year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change,” which highlights the trailblazing spirit of Hispanic leaders who have opened doors for future generations.
However, everyone in our community is a leader. There’s no need for titles or special recognition. Everyone who has a vision for a better world and works to make it happen is a leader and Alaska’s Latino community has been doing this for nearly 150 years. Today, Latinos make up nearly 8 percent of the state’s population, contributing across various fields to make Alaska a persevering and kind place. Despite the growth and impact of Latinos, there are still misconceptions about Hispanic Heritage Month. Established in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week by President Lyndon B. Johnson, it became a month-long celebration in 1988, under President George H. W. Bush. The mid-September start honors the independence days of several Latin American countries, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, followed by Mexico and Chile, while the month ends near October 12th, commemorating the arrival of the Spanish in 1492. As we reflect on pioneers like Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, the first Hispanic woman elected to Congress, and Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space, we celebrate today’s leaders in Alaska. Dr. Phillip Mendoza in medicine, athlete Obed Vargas, and activists like Kendra Arciniega are shaping the state’s future. Community organizers like Teodora Cabrera, media personalities like Hugo Forest, and cultural preservationists like Ninetta Regalado and Julie Santaella continue to build and strengthen Alaska’s Latino community. To celebrate this month, ENLACES Alaska has partnered with the Anchorage Museum for an exhibition called “Nuestra Huella” which showcases the stories of multiple members of the community. Through photographs, community stories, historical research, artworks, and cultural belongings from museum collections, you will have a chance to learn and celebrate the footprint our community is leaving in Alaska. On view from September 13 to April 13. Don’t miss it! |