Hispanic Heritage Month lasts from Sep. 15-Oct.15 and this year it comes at a difficult time. As our screens continue to fill with the stereotypical image of the Latin migrant so does the ‘invasion rhetoric’ that aims to paint Hispanics and Latinos as a threat to the US. It’s the same story every election cycle, a tale built on ignorance to sway an electorate through fear. Worst of all is the toll it takes on real people around the country.
Recently published statistics from the FBI show an increase in reported hate crimes from 2022-2023, with over half of all reported incidents linked to anti-race, ancestry, or ethnicity bias. Other studies have shown a marked increase in hate crimes specifically targeting Latinos. The need to push back against hate has never been greater.
People of Hispanic and Latin descent have been part of the American story from the very beginning. Swathes of the country wear that heritage in their names, others, like Puerto Rico, have been part of the US for over a century and overwhelmingly speak Spanish. Here are a few ways to educate yourselves and others about this important part of our nation’s roots.
1.Books, books, books!
Puerto Rico’s long and sometimes bloody history is essential to understanding where the island is today. Photo Credit: Bold Type Books
Nothing screams education like a good book and when it comes to the many flavors of our nation’s Hispanic heritage there’s a ton of great literature to choose from. Luis Alberto Urrea’s “The House of Broken Angels” is a firm favorite thanks to the author’s masterful prose and down-to-earth depiction of a Mexican-American family. For something more political, “War Against All Puerto Ricans” does a great job untangling the island’s complex history. Its tragic that so many Americans think Puerto Rico is a different county, yet one more reason the book is practically a must-read.
Don’t just stick to border stories and politics either. “Paula” by Isabel Allende is a classic family odyssey across multiple continents. Even more importantly, however, is that it is that rare example of a world-renowned artist grappling with the loss of a loved one.
Allende is one of the most recognized authors in the world. “Paula” details the Chilean-born writer’s early years. Photo Credit: HarperVia
2. Watch a movie!
When we think of Hispanic-American cinema the image that typically comes to mind is the swashbuckling exploits of Zorro or Robert Rodriguez’s stylish “Desperado”. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
“El Norte” made history at the Oscars in 1985 when it was the first Latin American movie to be nominated for Best Original Screenplay. Photo Credit: Criterion Collection
“Like Water for Chocolate” (adapted from the incredible novel of the same name) is an often forgotten classic begging to be revisited. “Under the Same Moon”, on the other hand, never really got the acclaim it deserved. Gregory Nava’s “El Norte” is a must-see depiction of Cold War Central America. “Selena” is not as heavy but just as tragic. And we can’t forget Coco, a great movie tailor-made for adults and children to bond over.
3. Hang out at your local Taqueria
The Dayton area is full of amazing foodtrucks. Beyond just good food, they are great hangout spots and places to get to know your neighbors. Los 3 Comachos on Salem Avenue is a personal favorite but there are plenty of others across the county.
4.Listen to some great music
Puerto Rican legend Hector Lavoe remains one of the most celebrated singers in Latin history. Photo Credit: Craft Recordings
People are used to the usual hits by luminaries like Jennifer Lopez and Mark Antony, but the spectrum of great Hispanic music goes far beyond the pair. One of the most popular Latin genres, Salsa, was in fact founded right in New York City by US citizens and this month is the ideal time to explore it. Check out the wondrous work of the Fania All-Stars, Ismael Rivera, and Celia Cruz.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Look up The Buena Vista Social Club, Los Van Van, and Dominican legend Luis Guerra.
New Yorker Tito Puente is another much-loved Hispanic-American icon. Photo Credit: Concord Picante
Most importantly, lets all keep in mind that people of Hispanic heritage are our neighbors, caregivers, friends, and customers. They love, grieve, struggle, and are fighting for acceptance just like every other community in this beautiful country we share. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr said, “We may have come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.”
Ismael David Mujahid, Executive Editor