Hispanic Heritage Month

Hi Hamama Friends!

Today marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month and we are so excited to celebrate and highlight the Hispanic culture. Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from September 15th - October 15th. This is a time to truly appreciate and celebrate the colorful cultures, rich histories, and diversity of the American Latino and Hispanic communities.

Interesting facts about Hispanic Heritage Month:

• September 15th is a significant day because it’s the anniversary of independence for these Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively.¹
• The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15th and ending on October 15th. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.¹
• The U.S. Hispanic population reached 62.1 million in 2020, up from 50.5 million in 2010.²  
• The month is celebrated nationwide through festivals, parades, art shows, conferences, community gatherings, and much more.³

How to Observe National Hispanic Heritage Month:

1. Plan a fiesta!

Plan a little party with friends and family highlighting lots of tasty Hispanic food! Share stories about Hispanic culture. Listen to Hispanic music or put on a Hispanic show/movie.

Here’s a list of series that celebrate the achievements of Latino creators and communities, and cover a wide range of genres, from kid-friendly animation to comedies and emotional dramas. Enjoy these incredible comedies, dramas, docs, music, and more, this month!

2. Get involved in fine arts!

Light up your minds by delving into some Hispanic arts. Frida Kahlo’s paintings are a good start!

Here are 15 Hispanic and Latinx Artists you can follow on Instagram so you can have inspiration right at your fingertips!

3. Start learning Spanish

Hispanics make up about 20% of the US population (making up the largest ethnic minority). What better way to get more connected than by learning some Spanish?

Duolingo is a fun, free and effective way to learn a new language!

When talking about Hispanic heritage, food is often brought up. The tastes and smells are bold and are craved all over the world. Hispanic influences are tightly woven into the fabric of American life — think music, food, art, cinema, politics, literature, and so much more.

At Hamama, We have multiple recipes that highlight different recipes from different regions in Latin America:

1. Garlic Greens Chimichurri Sauce

This flavorful chimichurri sauce is packed with garlicky, fresh & herbaceous flavors! Cilantro, parsley, oregano, garlic greens, and white wine bring this perfect green sauce together. It’s best served fresh, drizzled over your favorite protein or meal of choice. Other sauces to try:Cilantro Sauce2. Nicaraguan Gallo Pinto (Rice & Beans)

Other dishes to try:

Cuban Inspired Burrito Bowl

Arroz Mexicano

3. Grilled Carne Asada Tacos

Who doesn’t love a good taco? These tacos are filled with so much flavor. The citrusy marinade gets a zesty flavor from fresh cilantro, garlic, spices & a combination of citrus juices. Fresh toppings like pickled onions, guacamole & your homegrown microgreens add the perfect textures and flavors. Serve with blistered shishito peppers and Mexican Rice for a super tasty dinner night.

Other tacos to try:

Carnitas (Mexican pulled pork) Tacos

Vegan Tacos Al Carbon

Throughout this month, we want to continue to celebrate and learn more about the Hispanic community and history. Share your favorite Hispanic celebrations!

Sources

1. Congress, T. L. of, Administration, N. A. and R., Humanities, N. E. for the, Art, N. G. of, Service, N. P., Institution, U. S. S., & Museum, U. S. H. M. (n.d.). National Hispanic American Heritage month 2021. National Hispanic American Heritage Month 2021. Retrieved August 31, 2022, from https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/about/
2. Krogstad, J. M., & Noe-Bustamante, L. (2022, February 16). Key facts about U.S. latinos for National Hispanic Heritage month. Pew Research Center. Retrieved August 31, 2022, from https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/09/09/key-facts-about-u-s-latinos-for-national-hispanic-heritage-month/
3. Geller, L. (2021, August 11). National Hispanic Heritage Month has been a cultural celebration for over 50 Years. Women's Health. Retrieved August 31, 2022, from https://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/a37168158/hispanic-heritage-month-facts/