Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: A Tribute to Culture, Community & Empowerment
Understanding the Significance
National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from September 15 to October 15, shines a light on the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities across the United States. This celebration originated in 1968 as a weeklong recognition under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to a full month in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan.
September 15 is especially meaningful as it marks the independence anniversaries of several Latin American nations—Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua—with Mexico following on September 16 and Chile on September 18. These overlapping dates offer a powerful moment for unity, reflection, and shared celebration of liberation.
Hispanic Heritage Month honors values like resilience, innovation, and identity. It's a time to celebrate voices and stories—from trailblazing artists and activists to community leaders—while also raising awareness of persistent challenges like economic disparities, mental health stigmas, and underrepresentation.
Event Highlight: Nuestra América with Smithsonian Educators
As part of this year’s celebration, the Kent District Library (KDL) is hosting Author Talks | Nuestra América with Smithsonian Educators. This event invites participants to explore Latin American cultures through storytelling and expert insights. Smithsonian curators bring to life the rich tapestry of Hispanic heritage in a way that is accessible and inspiring for all ages.
📖 Nuestra América features 30 powerful stories of trailblazing Latinos who shaped U.S. history, accompanied by beautifully illustrated portraits by Gloria Félix. The stories highlight cultural roots, childhoods, and contributions to American history. The book also includes a glossary and educator’s guide created by the National Museum of the American Latino, making it a must-have resource for schools, homes, and community spaces.
About the Presenters
Adrián Aldaba
Adrián Aldaba, a Chicago native, is the National Programs Manager for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino. He brings the museum’s programs into communities nationwide, facilitating teacher workshops and literacy initiatives, and co-authored Strategies for Engaging and Representing Latinos in Museums. Aldaba has been with the Smithsonian for over a decade, after earning his A.B. in Romance Languages and Literatures from Harvard College.
Emily Key
Emily Key is the Assistant Director of Learning and Public Engagement at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino. She developed the museum’s learning continuum and oversees bilingual programming, community engagement, and the nationally recognized Young Ambassadors Program. She also spearheaded educational initiatives for the Molina Family Latino Gallery. Key holds a BA from George Washington University and a graduate certificate in Arts and Culture Strategy from the University of Pennsylvania.
Much like the Nuestra América stories and the Smithsonian’s educational work, Soldadera Coffee connects history and culture to daily life—offering not just a drink, but a way to honor tradition and identity with every sip.
Join the Celebration
👉 Register for the event: Nuestra América with Smithsonian Educators
👉 Discover Soldadera Coffee: soldaderacoffee.com
This Hispanic Heritage Month, take time to learn, connect, and celebrate. Whether through an inspiring book, an educational event, or the bold flavors of Soldadera Coffee, you can be part of keeping these powerful stories alive.
