Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
National Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration of the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Celebrate with the Library by reading about notable people, featured events, and recommended reading. Observed from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, the month began as a week in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson. By 1988, it was enacted into law as a 30-day celebration.
Sept. 15 marks the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico celebrates their independence on Sept. 16, while Chile celebrates on Sept. 18.
Notable People
Gabriela Mistral, or Lucila Godoy Alcayaga, was a Chilean poet-diplomat, journalist, and educator. In 1945, she became the first Latin American writer to win a Nobel Prize in literature. Her poetry explored themes like nature, betrayal, motherhood, travel, and identity.
A composer, lyricist, actor, writer, and activist, Lin-Manuel Miranda is best known for creating Tony and Pulitzer Prize award-winning musical Hamilton. Based on Rob Chernow’s biography Alexander Hamilton, the musical draws inspiration from hip-hop, blending the sound with traditional show tunes. Hamilton has toured around the country, including Cincinnati’s Aronoff Center for the Arts. (The musical will return to the Aronoff this December.)
Tony Pérez is a Cincinnati Reds Hall of Famer and Big Red Machine team member. A native of Cuba, Pérez signed a minor league contract with the Reds in 1960. He joined the major leagues as a first and third baseman from 1964 through 1986. During his time, the Reds won four National League pennants and two World Series championships between 1970 and 1976.
Featured Event
On Saturday, Sept. 13, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Forest Park Branch will celebrate the vibrant Hispanic community and its incredible contributions. Connect with local businesses sharing valuable resources, enjoy delicious offerings from food trucks, be entertained by lively Latino performances, and more. This event is presented in partnership with The Sound of Quisqueya and is made possible by the generous support of the Library Foundation of Cincinnati & Hamilton County.
Recommended Reading & Viewing
Check out materials from these staff-curated lists!
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with DVDs:
Whether you prefer movies, TV shows or documentaries, we have options for you!
Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month:
National Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15. Celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of this diverse group with one of these recent Library reads.
Get Cooking for National Hispanic Heritage Month:
Get ready for National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 - October 15 with one of these cookbooks.
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