The History
We are thrilled to honor Hispanic Heritage Month at Business Impact NW. This month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central, and South America, and who identify as Hispanic and Latin- a group whose population makes up the largest non-white group in the United States.
Although the origins of this month began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, it was in 1988 that it was expanded into a month by Ronald Reagan and became a law on August 17, 1988.
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15th and ends on October 15th to include the celebration of the many cultures and many independence dates honored throughout Latin America. September 15th marks the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, while Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively. Hispanic Heritage Month also includes October 12th, which is a day when some Latin American countries and Spain celebrate either Día de la Raza, Hispanic Heritage Day, Respect to Cultural Diversity Day, and Indigenous Resistance Day. In the U.S., October 12th is observed as Columbus Day or Indigenous People’s Day.
Hispanic/Latin People in Business
According to a February 2021 article, “Latinos are starting businesses at a faster rate than the national average across several industries…” [NBC]. This trend continues even though the pandemic dramatically affected Hispanic and Latin small businesses, with Hispanic and Latina women experiencing an even more disproportionate economic impact. While we acknowledge these challenges and the many other barriers that Hispanic and Latin small businesses face systemically, we are dedicated to uplifting the strength and successes of Hispanic and Latin people this month, and always.
What You Can Do as a Supporter
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, you can celebrate by patronizing Hispanic and Latin small businesses this month and then go beyond the 30-days to support these resilient businesses all year long!
Support free education for current and aspiring Latin entrepreneurs to launch, grow, and succeed in their small businesses by donating to Business Impact NW here.
Learn more about the history of Hispanic Heritage Month here and here.
Discover how you can center Latin voices in the Hispanic community during Hispanic Heritage Month here.
For Hispanic/Latin Small Businesses
Get the support needed to launch, grow, or fund your small business by starting with Business Impact NW services here.
Find a Latin Chamber near you to connect to more resources, like the Seattle one.
Learn how Centro de la Raza can help you with its many resources and programs here.
