Various traditions and different cultures, but one family. Hispanic heritage month is a time where we acknowledge the important roles that Hispanic/Latino communities have in our country. This month-long festivity consists of Hispanic history, food, music, and so much more. Cathedral Catholic participates in this fiesta by hosting Kermes, which gives students an opportunity to embrace their diversity and celebrate together!
History
Hispanic heritage month is the time period between September 15 to October 15. It celebrates the cultures and history of Latino and Hispanic Americans in the United States. This time allows people to engulf themselves in different traditions and customs that have helped shape American culture.
There have been many events that have contributed to the continued rising population of Hispanics in America, but the vital ones go back to hundreds of years ago.
After the Mexican-American war ended in 1848, the U.S. gained a large amount of land that belonged to Mexico. Roughly 100,000 Mexicans watched their homeland become part of the United States without crossing the border. Most of them chose to stay and became some of the first Mexican Americans, which was a monumental event shaping culture in the southwest.
The results of the Spanish-American war allowed Hispanics to have an impact all throughout the U.S. In 1898, Spain gave up Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This displayed the influence the U.S. had outside of North America. After this, the country continued to grow with migrants not only from Latin America, but also from the Caribbean.
These events had a significant impact on the United States culture and population. Migrants from previous Spanish territories brought diverse traditions that improved America’s community. As of 2024 there are over 68 million Hispanic people in the United States, which makes about 20% of the population.
The Kermes is an event that is centered around celebrating Hispanic and Latino cultures. The U.S. recognizes their importance and all the traditions that lasted through generations.
Hispanic vs Latino
Are Hispanic and Latino the same thing? If not, then what’s the difference? Hispanic refers to people who are from Spanish-speaking countries or have Spanish-speaking descent. Whereas Latino is the word used to describe people who are from Latin America or have a Latin American heritage.
Verywellmind.com explains, “Hispanic refers to people who speak Spanish or have a background in a Spanish speaking country. Latino refers to geography, specifically people from Latin America”.
Hispanic heritage month
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded Hispanic heritage week into a month. September 15th is the day where several Central American countries gained their independence from Spain. September 16th and 18th mark Mexico and Chile’s independence days.
Hispanic Heritage month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 because those dates include many of the independence days of several Latin American countries.
People celebrate in various ways that honor and recognize the importance of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. Schools host events such as food festivals and dance performances. Classes emphasize Hispanic history with fun lessons and projects. Neighborhoods have local gatherings and fiestas. And social media provides information on influential Hispanic Americans through documentaries!
Mrs. Wallace, coordinator of Hispanic/Latino outreach, explains, “It’s important for us to be aware of how beautiful the human race is. We get to see it in the diversity and joy it brings to people’s faces when people are proud of their culture.”
Kermes
On Friday October 17th, Cathedral Catholic celebrated the end of Hispanic Heritage month by hosting a Kermes! A Kermes is a Mexican celebration that involves different cultures coming together to commemorate Hispanic and Latino culture. It consists of music, dancing, food, and games!
The Hispanic-Latino student union spent months working hard on ensuring the kermes fulfills its purpose, bringing the community together by celebrating diversity. Michelle Garcia ‘26, vice president of the club, shares, “being a part of HLSU has helped my high school experience because it’s made me feel welcome at the school and it gives me fun experiences.”
People of all cultures celebrated the fun night together, enjoying the music of the mariachi band, the Baile Folclorico’s vibrant dancing, and the authentic foods such as tacos and pastries from various countries. The view onto the football field during sunset, watching the Dons win a home game, ended the night with cheers.
Hispanic heritage month gives people the opportunity to recognize the history and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. Hosting celebrations like the kermes allows everyone of different cultures to embrace their diversity and enjoy traditional food, dances, and music!