President, AFT-Maryland
Hispanic Heritage Month is one of the most diverse periods of celebration on our national calendar. This period is so rich because of the wide-range of Americans who have Hispanic ancestry. The month is a period of recognition for people whose ancestors come from far reaching places such as Spain, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Mexico. The unique customs from each group enliven and enrich the American experience.
We celebrate this month over the course of two months because the September 15th date marks the independence of several Central and South American nations including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Meanwhile, Chile and Mexico celebrate their independence on the 16th and 18th, respectively, of the same month. This period also invites all of us to appreciate the contributions made by people of Hispanic descent.
We in labor hold a particular reverence for titans in our movement who are of Hispanic origin. Delores Huerta and Cesar Chavez made invaluable contributions to the labor movement. Their organizing, strategic decision making, and courage in the face of danger is an inspiration to all working people. This month, we celebrate them and all of our labor siblings of Hispanic descent. I encourage all members of our state federation to learn more about Hispanic-Americans, the largest ethnic minority in the country and an indispensable portion of the American fabric.
TEACHERS:
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Hispanic Heritage Month
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2022-09-15