From September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated throughout the United States. The month starts on September 15 because that was a day of independence for several countries. Mexico started their war for independence on September 15, 1810. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua all declared their independence from Spain on September 15, as well. The month is filled with celebration. We celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of all Hispanic cultures. From El Salvador to the Dominican Republic to Peru, all cultures are celebrated for their contributions to American history and culture. The Latino population makes up 19.5% of the total American population, according to the United States Census Bureau . They are the largest racial minority group in the United States, with around 65.2 million people. However, it is important to understand the difference between being Hispanic, and being Latino. Latinos are people who come from Latin American countries–including parts of the Caribbean–and they also speak a latin based language, also known as romance languages, such as Portuguese, French and Spanish. Hispanics are people who originate from Spanish speaking countries. 

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Insight asked students and staff at BHS three questions: 

1. What country is your family from? 
2. What is your favorite part of your culture? 
3. What is your favorite food from your country? 

1. I’m from the Dominican Republic.
2. There is a lot of energy with the people, it’s crazy. 
3. Mangu has to be my favorite dish. It has plantains and eggs.

1. Colombia 
2. I like the food 
3. My favorite are tamales  

1. I’m from Mexico
2. I love our traditional clothing. 
3. My favorite food is Pozole 

1. I was born here, but my family is from Puerto Rico. 
2. The importance of immediate and extended family. We put family first, we support them and we celebrate their achievements. 
3. Arroz con Pollo, it’s a dish I can always have two servings of, but seafood as well. 

1. I’m from the Dominican Republic
2. Our people are always very happy 
3. Los tres golpes are my favorite food

1. Dominican Republic
2. The food, it’s so good
3. Arroz con Pollo 

1. El Salvador 
2. The food 
3. Pupusas 

1. I am from Spain
2. Everyone lives outside on the street. You see people outside talking to one another. 
3. Paella, it’s a rice dish made with either seafood or meat. 

1. I’m from Ecuador 
2. My favorite thing is the music 
3. Encebollado

1. El Salvador 
2. Definitely the food and the music
3. I like everything 

1. I’m from El Salvador 
2. I love the music 
3. Pupusas, they are like this corn cake filled with cheese or meat and they’re grilled

1. I’m from Ecuador 
2. I like the music 
3. Encebollado has to be my favorite