Maryland Commission on Civil Rights Recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month 2022
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The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, (MCCR), and its Board of Commissioners regularly recognize special emphasis commemorations. From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, the National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Hispanic and Latinx community. According to the census, 62.6 million of the United States identify as Hispanic or Latinx, making them the nation’s largest racial or ethnic minority. In Maryland, Hispanic/Latinx make up 12 percent of the Maryland population and number around 744,000.
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively.
During this Hispanic Heritage Month, MCCR encourages Marylanders to learn more about the culture and contributions the Hispanic/Latinx community have made in society. Look for your local community events. To assist you in your search, below is a brief list of activities throughout Maryland:
- Prince Georges County Dept of Parks and Recreation Hispanic Heritage Month Calendar of Events
- Montgomery College Calendar of Events
- Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration Kickoff (In Waldorf, MD)
- City of Mount Rainer’s Latino Heritage Month Celebration
- Hispanic Business on BAM (Business, Advocacy and Mentorship)! Showcase
- 14th Annual Latino Festival of Frederick, MD
- Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration and Presentation of Community Service Awards
- Hispanic Heritage Month: Hispanic Leadership Awards Dinner
- 3rdd Annual Latin Rhythms Festival
The MCCR and its Board of Commissioners are united in celebrating all cultures, and in resolving anti-discrimination through enforcement of the State’s anti-discrimination laws, and through public outreach and education.
For information on MCCR, visit https://mccr.maryland.gov/