A Brief History of Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to recognize the vibrant cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. What started as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 was later expanded to a month-long celebration in 1988. Each year, from September 15th to October 15th, we celebrate the legacy of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Why September 15th? These dates are historically significant for many Latin American countries. For example, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on September 16th and 18th, respectively. Additionally, Día de la Raza (Columbus Day) falls on October 12th, further anchoring this period as a time for reflection and celebration.
Why Hispanic Heritage Month Matters
Hispanic Americans are integral to the fabric of our society. Nearly one in five people in the U.S. identifies as Hispanic, and in Skagit County, over 18% of the population does (US Census Data 2020). From the food we enjoy, the music we dance to, and to the art we appreciate, Hispanic culture is deeply woven into the American experience.
However, the celebration is not just about recognizing the cultural impact. It’s also an opportunity for us to shine a light on the systemic inequalities that persist within Hispanic and Latino communities, particularly in areas like housing.
Hispanic Heritage and Housing Inequalities
Hispanic and Latino communities have long faced barriers to homeownership, due to exclusionary policies and practices in the United States. These barriers have led to significant disparities in housing quality, homeownership rates, and foreclosure rates, and have contributed to cycles of poverty and instability.
Housing Disparities Today
These statistics reveal a continued need for policy changes and community support to close the gap in housing equality and ensure that Hispanic and Latino families have the same opportunities for stability and growth.
Homeownership and Paving a Path Forward
Amidst these housing disparities are stories of resilience and hope. Meet Dayse, a Latina Homebuyer who partnered with Skagit Habitat to build a stable future for her and her three daughters. After overcoming an abusive relationship and facing years of housing instability, Dayse is now paying an affordable mortgage at her forever home in Mount Vernon. For Dayse, this home represents a “soft place to land” and an opportunity to finally provide her family with the stability they deserve.
Dayse explains, “I feel like I have been waiting for my life to start. Habitat is giving me an opportunity to do something for myself. It will be my house which I got on my own with my hard work.”
Read more about Dayse’s inspiring journey to homeownership here.
Get Involved this Hispanic Heritage Month!
We can all celebrate and learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month and be part of the housing equity solution! Here’s how you can get involved:
1. Vote:
Support leaders and legislation that aim to reduce racial disparities in housing affordability and homeownership. Have you registered to vote yet? Register here.
2. Community Engagement:
Join or support local organizations like Community Action’s Latinx Advisory Committee and the Latino Business Leaders at the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce.
3. Learn and Share:
Stay informed by reading local resources, like the Mount Vernon School District’s amazing take on Hispanic Heritage Month. Or take a look at GoSkagit’s recent article here.
4. Support Latino and Hispanic Owned Businesses:
In Skagit County, there are many wonderful Hispanic or Latino owned businesses offering a variety of goods and services. By shopping at these businesses, you’re not only supporting local entrepreneurs but also contributing to the economic vitality of the community.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage and Homeownership
As a local nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable housing, Skagit Habitat for Humanity is proud to serve a diverse community, including many Hispanic families. We understand the challenges that these families face in achieving homeownership and are committed to providing them with the support and resources they need to build a stable future.
By celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, we not only honor the achievements and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities but also recognize the ongoing challenges they face in housing. Together, we can work toward building a more equitable future for all.
References:
2020 U.S. Census
Jacobs. “Environmental Health Disparities in Housing.” 2011
U.S. Department of Treasury, 2022.
