Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month Texas-Style
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The National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the cultures and history of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. The holiday kicks off on September 15, which is significant because it's the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries:
Costa Rica
El Salvador
Guatemala
Honduras
Nicaragua
In addition, Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days during this time period.
During Hispanic Heritage Month, let us celebrate how Hispanic and Latino Americans have enriched our country and contributed to its success. And let us commit to promoting equality, opportunity, and justice for all.
Impact of the Hispanic Community on American Society
Hispanic culture has significantly impacted the state of Texas, shaping its architecture, food, language, and music. For example, Tex-Mex cuisine, which combines Mexican and American cooking elements, is one of the state's most popular types of food. In addition, San Antonio is home to the Alamo and the River Walk - two popular tourist destinations that showcase the influence of Hispanic culture. Houston, on the other hand, also has a large Hispanic community and many Mexican-American businesses. These examples illustrate the importance of Hispanic culture in the state of Texas.
Hispanic Americans have had a significant impact on American culture and society. For example, Hispanic food, music, language, and customs have become integral to American life. Hispanics have also contributed significantly to the arts, sciences, sports, and entertainment.
The Hispanic community is also playing an increasingly important role in our economy. Hispanics are starting businesses at a rate three times the national average. Hispanics are also becoming an increasingly important political force, with a growing number of elected officials at all levels of government.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let us remember the significant contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to our country. Together, we strive to create an America that is more inclusive and welcoming for everyone.
Influence of Hispanic Culture in Texas
The influence of Hispanic heritage in Texas is felt through the many Mexican-American and Hispanic residents who live in the state today. In addition, the state's Hispanic population has been growing rapidly in recent years. It now makes up more than one-quarter of the state's total population.
Hispanic culture has significantly impacted the state of Texas, shaping its architecture, food, language, and music. For example, Tex-Mex cuisine, which combines Mexican and American cooking elements, is one of the state's most popular types of food. In addition, San Antonio is home to the Alamo and the River Walk - two popular tourist destinations that showcase the influence of Hispanic culture. Houston, on the other hand, also has a large Hispanic community and many Mexican-American businesses. These examples illustrate the importance of Hispanic culture in the state of Texas.
If there is one type of food that you can't get enough of, it’s Tex-Mex! This is a real treat for those who are big fans of spicy and unique tasting food. Whether you enjoy eating out or cooking in your own home, Tex-Mex food is something that everyone loves. Discover the world of Tex-Mex with TexasRealFood.
Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation
The observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson. It was expanded by Ronald Reagan to cover a 30-day period. It's been an observance since and was enacted into law on August 17, 1988! The theme for 2022 is: "Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation".
This year's theme focuses on the power of unity and inclusivity to strengthen our nation. We continue to face challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, social injustice, and a changing climate. Therefore, it is more important than ever that we work together to create a brighter future for all.
Let us use this month as a time to celebrate our diversity and unite as one nation, Unidos.
6 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the Family
Here are some great ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with your family.
Upgrade Your Menu with Delicious Tex-Mex Flavors
From tacos to chalupas filled with mouth-watering ingredients, your family will enjoy celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with these dishes:
Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa is perfect for topping tacos, enchiladas or quesadillas.
Chicken Fajitas: Tender strips of chicken, peppers, and onions served on a warm tortilla – need we say more?
Carne Asada: One of the most popular dishes in Mexican cuisine, carne asada is grilled skirt steak typically served with tortillas, salsa, and lime.
Chile Relleno: These roasted green chiles are stuffed with cheese, coated with eggs, and served with a tomato sauce – delicious!
Arroz con Pollo: A classic dish of chicken and rice, closely related to paella, simmered in a flavorful broth.
Living in Texas, we have all grown accustomed to how Mexican cuisine has played a huge role in influencing the flavors of the food we eat in the Lone Star State. Of course, it’s always great if you have the time to go back to our culinary roots as a state and that involves taking a road trip to Mexico and enjoying the flavors that have played a great role in our Texan food. Click here for some of the best food joints you shouldn’t miss!
Stay Indoors and Try a New Game
This Hispanic Heritage Month, while you're celebrating at home with your family, try out a new game! Here are a few games that are popular in Hispanic culture:
LoterĂa: This is a Mexican bingo-like game usually played with pictures instead of numbers.
La Guerra: A card game popular in Puerto Rico, this game is similar to War but has an added twist.
Learn About Traditions and Customs
Hispanic Heritage Month is a great time to learn about the traditions and customs of Hispanic cultures. Here are a few things you can do to get started:
Learn about the history of Hispanic Heritage Month and why it's celebrated.
Research the countries that make up Hispanic culture – there's more than just Mexico!
Explore Books by Hispanic Authors
This Hispanic Heritage Month, make a point to explore books by Hispanic authors. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
“The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros – This coming-of-age novel tells the story of Esperanza, a young Latina girl growing up in Chicago.
“How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents” by Julia Alvarez – This novel tells the story of four sisters who came to America from the Dominican Republic in the 1960s.
“The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao” by Junot Diaz – This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of a Dominican-American man living in New Jersey.
“In the Time of the Butterflies” by Julia Alvarez – This historical fiction novel tells the story of the Mirabal sisters, who were killed for their involvement in the resistance against the dictatorship in the Dominican Republic.
“Sing, Unburied, Sing” by Jesmyn Ward – This novel tells the story of a Mississippi family struggling to deal with racism, addiction, and poverty.
Have a Movie Night Featuring Hispanic Films
Hispanic Heritage Month is the perfect time to curl up with a good movie. Here are a few suggestions:
Selena – This biographical drama tells the story of Selena Quintanilla, a Mexican-American singer. She was tragically killed at the age of 23.
Stand and Deliver – This inspiring drama tells the true story of a teacher who helps a group of Hispanic students achieve success in calculus.
Real Women Have Curves – This comedy-drama tells the story of a young Latina woman struggling to balance her culture and her dreams.
La Bamba – This biographical drama tells the story of Ritchie Valens, a Mexican-American singer who died in a plane crash at the age of 17.
Go Dancing!
Hispanic culture is rich in music and dance. So this Hispanic Heritage Month, get out there and bust a move! Here are a few suggestions:
Salsa – This popular Latin dance originated in Cuba and is danced to salsa music, which is a mix of Cuban and other Latin American musical styles.
Merengue – This lively dance is danced to merengue music, which is a style of music that originated in the Dominican Republic.
Bachata – This sensual dance originated in the Dominican Republic and is danced to bachata music.
Cumbia – This popular dance is danced to cumbia music, a style of music that originated in Colombia.
¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana, Texas!
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the culture and heritage of Americans who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Here in Texas, we go big when honoring the Hispanic heritage. Check out these ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month like a true Texan!
Fiestas Patrias in Houston
Event Date: Saturday, September 17, 2022
Location: Children’s Museum Houston
Ages: All Ages
More Information: https://www.cmhouston.org/events/fiestas-patrias
Celebrate Fiestas Patrias at the Children's Museum with these activities:
Mariachi Band
Experience Hispanic culture through strings and trumpets from a traditional Mexican Mariachi band. The talented group will grace the halls with walking performances.
Event Time: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
El Grito de Dolores
Watch El Grito de Dolores or the Mexican War of Independence battle cry. It was uttered on September 16, 1810, by Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Roman Catholic priest from the small town of Dolores, near Guanajuato, Mexico. It will be immediately followed by a short Mariachi Monarco performance.
Event Time: 2:15 pm - 2:30 pm Venue: Brown Auditorium
Ballet Folklórico Las Américas
Watch a vibrant performance by Ballet Folklórico Las Américas as they promote the richness of the Hispanic heritage and cultures.
Event Time: 2:30 pm - 3:00 pm Museum: Brown Auditorium
Mola Art
Molas are brightly colored fabrics that are pieced together to create intricate designs. It is a textile art created by the indigenous Guna people from Panama and Columbia. Take part in this tribute to beautiful forms of expression through Mola textile art!
Event Time: All day Museum Venue: Junktion
Hispanic Heritage Festival in Dallas
Event Date: Saturday, October 1, 2022
Event Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm
Location: The Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, Dallas TX
Ages: All Ages
More Information: https://dallasmlkcenter.com/hispanic-heritage-festival/
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center will host its first-ever Hispanic Heritage Festival on Saturday, October 1, 2022. Everyone is invited to an in-person community event with free activities for children, live entertainment, and local vendors. Special guests include Ballet FolklĂłrico Ollimpaxqui and the Cristo Rey Dallas Aesthetic Literacy students. In addition, there will be a live Zumba demonstration by Ariana Zuniga.
They will also have a specially curated art display from local students showcasing original art that reflects the diversity of Hispanic and Latino cultures.
¡CELEBRAMOS! A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage at Fort Worth
Event Dates: September 15, 2022 - October 15, 2022
Event Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Fort Worth Botanic Garden | Botanical Research Institute of Texas (FWBG|BRIT)
Ages: All Ages
More Information: https://fwbg.org/events/celebramos/
Visit ¡CELEBRAMOS! at the FWBG|BRIT where guests will enjoy a tribute to Hispanic culture through art, native plants, and garden design throughout the entire campus. The month-long series of events will feature art exhibits, an artisan market, and even a Quinceañera!
Outdoor Family Film in San Antonio
Event Date: Saturday, September 17, 2022
Event Time: 7:00pm - 10:30pm
Location: Mission Marquee Plaza
Ages: Ages 13 and above
More Information: https://events.getcreativesanantonio.com/event/family-movie-series-in-the-heights-hispanic-heritage-month-celebration/
To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, enjoy a free movie brought to you by the City of San Antonio World Heritage Office! Featuring the family movie, In the Heights. Don’t forget to bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks for an unforgettable outdoor movie experience!
Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra
Event Date: October 15, 2022
Event Time: 7:30pm
Location: Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Performing Arts Center (PAC)
More Information: https://ccsymphony.org/hispanic-heritage
The Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra recognizes the many contributions of Hispanic heritage by playing an array of phenomenal music from Cuba, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. Also performing will be the young Mexican pianist, Eli Manzo, performing one of the most beloved piano concertos ever.
During Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate how Hispanic Americans have enriched our country and contributed to its success. We also recommit to ensuring that all members of our community have the opportunity to reach their full potential. The great state of Texas always has something unique to offer, from the food to the art during Hispanic Heritage Month. So be sure to check out some of the events and activities in your area and celebrate the Hispanic heritage this September!
