Hispanic Heritage Month is a month to celebrate Spanish history, culture, and the contributions Hispanics have made to the U.S. This celebration was originally one week, but in 1988, President Reagan expanded it to a full month from September 15 through October 15.
Hispanic Heritage Month advances our knowledge of other cultures and accomplishments that have changed America. Latin culture comprises 19% of the total world population, according to The National Museum of the American Latino. Today, many Latinos and Hispanics are shaping history, which is why the Ukiah High School community takes time to honor the culture and teach students more about it.
The terms ‘Hispanic’ and ‘Latino’ are often mixed up, and it is important to understand the difference. According to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, in an article titled “8 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month,” the definition of being ‘Hispanic’ refers to a person’s language, generally those from Spanish-speaking Latin American countries or Spain. The word ‘Latino’ focuses more on the roots and heritage of a person, rather than the language they speak.
UHS News asked Spanish Teacher Bobby Taylor how he incorporates Hispanic Heritage Month into his classes. He shared, “My students are working on some projects, and we’re exploring some famous Hispanic figures. We’ll be listening to music, and we’ll be talking about history and the independence of Mexico, Central America, and South America.” Taylor explained that he is incorporating Hispanic background into his Spanish class by teaching his students the importance of their culture with assignments on famous Hispanic role models.
In addition to staff at UHS, students also celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Freshman Elizabeth Moreno shared, “I represent my heritage by doing baile folklórico,” a traditional folk dance from Mexico and some parts of Latin America. She further expressed, “I feel like the high school helps me by teaching me Spanish, [which] helps me feel more connected to my roots.”
Ukiah High School will be celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month this week by hosting a themed spirit week where students can dress up each day from 9/28-10/2. On 9/30, UHS will be playing Lotería and giving out prizes at lunch in the Quad. UHS will also have Grupo Norteña music classes performing at lunch in the Tri on 10/15.
Join us in honoring Hispanic and Latino culture!
Christine Herrera Lozano
Christine Herrera is a freshman at Ukiah High School, and this is her first year in journalism. She loves to write and talk about what is happening in the world. She has lived in Ukiah her whole life. Christine deeply cares about school and hopes to pursue a future career as a pediatrician.
Ariana Moreno
Ariana Moreno is a senior at Ukiah High School, taking journalism for the first time. Ariana has experience in poetry and enjoys personal journaling. She was born and raised in Ukiah, California. She spends her free time in the gym, doing martial arts, sewing, learning new recipes, and spending time with family. She is also very passionate about different forms of art and self-expression.