HARLINGEN — Hispanic Heritage Month started yesterday, but the celebration begins today with the celebration of Mexico Independence Day.
That observance is one of many ways people across the United States recognize Hispanic Heritage Month. The Harlingen school board earlier this month made a proclamation recognizing the contributions of Latin Americans to the United States.
“Hispanics have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service,” reads the proclamation. “They have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their community.”
Hispanic Heritage Month, says the proclamation, began in 1968 and starts each year on Sept. 15. That is the day five Latin American countries — Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua — celebrate their independence.
Today, Mexico celebrates independence with a Diez y Seis event at Casa de Amistad with mariachi singers, dancers and ballet folklorico.
IF YOU GO
Diez y Seis de Septiembre
WHAT: Mariachis and Folkloric Dancers
WHEN: Today, 7 to 9 p.m.
WHERE: Municipal Auditorium, 1204 Fair Park Blvd., Harlingen
A Free family event
