Hispanic Heritage Month at BRHS

The United States of America has a very diverse population that includes many different histories, languages, and traditions. Culture grows and evolves with each individual; different perspectives mix and new celebrations emerge. Now, the time to celebrate that has come. 

From September 15th to October 15th, the United States celebrates the Hispanic-American heritage of Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The 15th of September not only marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month but also Independence Day for many different Latin American countries, such as Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Honduras. It started out as Hispanic Heritage Week, which was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968, though it was later expanded to October 15th by Ronald Reagan in 1980. The day of October 15th marks the start of the Mexican War of Independence, which resulted in liberation from the New Spain colony.

Broad Run is celebrating in its own way. The hallways are decorated with papel picado, a traditional Mexican art, and there are posters on display bringing attention to many famous Latino people in history: Frida Kahlo, for example, was an incredible painter from Mexico. To continue recognizing prominent Hispanic figures in history, AP Spanish students have created videos to broadcast to the school every morning on the announcements. These videos recount the lives and achievements of many Latino people, like Selena Quintanilla, who was dubbed the Queen of Tejano music. Broad Run is also celebrating its Latino community here. Two Broad Run students were chosen to participate in a series run by Loudoun County to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Junior Sebastian Chacon was featured on the Loudoun County Twitter, and spoke about what Hispanic Heritage month means to him: “When I think of Hispanic Heritage month, I think of how far we’ve come…and the bright future that lies ahead of us.” 

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time celebrate amazing cultures, which don’t always get the attention they deserve. “[Hispanic Heritage Month] should be more recognized,” said sophomore Adriana Salazar. Take this month to commemorate and celebrate Hispanic heritage in the United States!