National Hispanic Heritage Month offers the opportunity to celebrate the presence of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States, and their extensive contributions to the arts, cuisine, advocacy work, literature, politics, sports, and much more. This includes the recognition of those with ancestry from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America. With its first celebration having occurred in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15^th, through October 15^th. This time span is especially significant because September 15^th marks the commemoration of independence for El Salvadore, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico celebrates their independence on September 16^th, Chile on September 18^th, and Belize on September 21^st.

Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together

The National Hispanic Heritage Month theme for 2024 is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” which is certainly fitting as we acknowledge the various significant roles that this community has held in our nation’s history, dating all the way back to the American Revolution. Though their rich history, contributions to society, and culture should be continuously celebrated, these 30 days provide a wonderful opportunity to recognize Hispanic Americans around us, as well as highlight the local groups, businesses, and restaurants to support in your own community.

The Town of Manchester honors, celebrates, and raises awareness for the Hispanic American community and the celebrations surrounding them this month. On October 6^th, 2020, Mayor Jay Moran expressed the value of National Hispanic Heritage Month through the Manchester Official proclamation:

WHEREAS, Manchester is a town in which our diversity is shown and celebrated.  We recognize and honor the contributions of all members of our community; and

WHEREAS, September 15 is the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.  Mexico achieved independence on September 16 and Chile achieved independence on September 18; and

WHEREAS, In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson observed National Hispanic Heritage Week.  This 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; and

WHEREAS, Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America; and

WHEREAS, During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the countless contributions of more than 60 million Hispanic Americans to our culture and society.  Hispanic Americans are the largest minority group in the United States today, and generations of Hispanic Americans have consistently helped make our country strong and prosperous; and

WHEREAS, Manchester invites all members of the community to learn more about the rich Hispanic culture, traditions and history, and celebrate the contributions that have been made to our country and our community by Hispanic Americans.

THEREFORE, I, Jay Moran, Mayor of the Town of Manchester, on behalf of the Board of Directors, the Town Administration, and the citizens of Manchester, do hereby proclaim September 15 – October 15, 2020 as HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

 Jay Moran, Mayor                                                                                

With the themes of unity and representation being prominent this month, it is important to support the various community groups and businesses pioneered by our Hispanic residents here in Manchester. Below is a list of local restaurants run by families of Hispanic Heritage, local events, and further resources to support this vibrant community.

Local Restaurants:

–        Moran Restaurant, 534 Middle Tpke E # D, Manchester, CT 06040

–        Three Amigos Mexican Taqueria, 298 Middle Turnpike W, Manchester, CT 06040

–        La Plazita Del Mofongo, 415A Broad St, Manchester, CT 06040

–        El Sol Deli, 631 Main St, Manchester, CT 06040

–        La Toquilla, 21 Oak St, Manchester, CT 06040

–        Rosita’s Latin Cuisine, 534 Middle Turnpike E, Manchester, CT 06040

Events in Manchester, CT:

–        Catering Management- Hispanic Heritage Buffet Dinner: Wednesday, September 25^th, (7:00-8:30 PM). Celebrate the rich and diverse cuisine of Latin America and Spain with a Hispanic Heritage Dinner.

–        Social Mixer Honoring Hispanic Heritage: Friday, September 27^th (1:00-2:30). This event is held by UR Community Cares to give people the opportunity to get acquainted and share their cultural traditions.

Links to Further Resources:

–        The National Museum of The American Latino: The National Museum of The American Latino offer virtual exhibits, and bilingual resources including at-home activities for families to engage in this Month.

–        Flipster: Flipster is a digital library that offers 24/7 access to popular magazines translated to Spanish. The website includes an edition of Hola for Hispanic Heritage Month.

–        Hispanic Health Council: The Hispanic Health Council offers various culturally relevant and competent services for Hispanic Families. This includes financial, occupational, spiritual, social services, and much more.

–        Hispanic Federation CREAR Futuros: CREAR Futuros is ran by the Hispanic Federation and offers Latino college students a mentoring and college success program. This includes leadership development, career mentorship, internship opportunities, and connection to social services.

–        Latino Community Services: Latino Community Services is a nonprofit based in Hartford, CT. Their mission is to eliminate health disparities, confront stigma, and raise awareness. This organization offers various resources for the Latino community including HIV/Aids services, prevention services, and community services.