Written by  SOLEIL HERNANDEZ-AMARO

Graphics by SOLEIL HERNANDEZ-AMARO

//The very basis of California is its rich emulsification of different cultures, as rich as the soil in which it stands. But the soil didn’t always belong to the American people, it was occupied by the Spanish and so was its name. The name ‘California’ comes from ‘Las Sergas’ a Spanish romance novel created in the 1500’s, which depicted a fictitious island that bore the name California. From then on, Spanish map makers, under the false impression that California was an island, would cement the title that is still used to this day. This is just one example of the many things that the United States has borrowed from Hispanic countries. From food to art, sports and language, all aspects of Hispanic culture are to be appreciated and that’s where Hispanic Heritage month comes into play. 

In 1968, under the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson, the  United States celebrated its first Hispanic Heritage Week and 20 years later Ronald Regan expanded those seven days into thirty. For every year after that, Hispanic Heritage Month has lived within the confines of September 15 to October 15. Inside this window of time, eight Hispanic countries celebrate their independence; a large contributing factor as to why the month takes place when it does.  

The theme for this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month is, “Pioneers of change: Shaping the Future Together.”A theme meant to bring attention to the Hispanic icons that devoted their life towards the progression and betterment of the Latino population. These pioneers created change that spanned a multitude of frontiers, such as Frida Kahlo’s immutable mark upon the world of art or Ellen Ochoa’s significance as the first Hispanic woman in space. Their spark and courage to break barriers is the essence of what Hispanic Heritage Month calls upon society as a whole to recognize and potentially embody. 

For those interested in learning about and celebrating Hispanic heritage month, The City of Berkeley will be holding a celebration of Hispanic culture on October 2 from 11:30 a.m to 1:30 p.m at the Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park. The Latinos Unidos club (held in room 605 on Tuesdays at lunch) is another link to understanding the remarkable Latino community here at Las Lomas.