hispanic heritage month essay examples

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Hispanic Heritage Month Writing Prompts

Do you use writing prompts in your homeschool? If so, be sure to bookmark this post and its list of Hispanic Heritage Month writing prompts for ages eight and up! 

I love writing. And I also love learning (and teaching!) about Hispanic heritage and culture. Together, these two topics lend themselves perfectly to writing prompts that celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. 

What is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Each year, from September 15th through October 15th, our country recognizes the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the United States and celebrates Hispanic heritage and culture.

The observance started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. But it was expanded into a month-long celebration by President Ronald Reagan 20 years later. 

Benefits of Writing Prompts for Homeschoolers

One way to celebrate this annual observance is through our home lessons. Learning about Hispanic Americans and their accomplishments is fantastic. But writing about what you’ve learned is even better! 

Sometimes, though, just knowing where to start has been the hardest part for my kids. That’s why I love writing prompts! Not only do they give our children a starting point, but they also benefit them in other ways. Using writing prompts in your homeschool lessons…

• Improves writing skills by giving them a specific topic to write about. This can help them to develop their ideas, organize their thoughts, and express themselves clearly. They are especially effective when paired with graphic organizers to support the outlining process.
• Increases creativity by encouraging them to think outside the box and come up with new and original ideas. 
• Helps our kids to learn new information by forcing them to do research on the topic they are writing about. This can help them to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world around them.
• Promotes self-expression by giving them a safe and supportive environment to share their thoughts and feelings.
• Builds confidence by giving them a sense of accomplishment when they complete a writing assignment about a topic they know little about. This can help them to feel more comfortable with their own abilities and to take on more challenging tasks in the future.

Using Writing Prompts for Nonfiction Writing

Oftentimes writing prompts are commonly used for creative writing purposes. But they are also a great tool to use with nonfiction writing.

I think that the thing to keep in mind when using writing prompts for historical or other research writing is that they work best in tandem with primary and secondary sources, videos, and other resources that our kids must read and then interpret to write their assignments. 

Where Writing Prompts Fit in the Writing Process

Writing prompts are the first step in the formal writing process. They help students get started by providing the topic. Students then continue through the writing process by: 

• writing what they know
• doing research
• taking notes
• writing a draft
• and finally, editing and proofreading.

I’ve put together a short list of writing prompts for both nonfiction and creative writing projects , as well as additional resources that pair well with Hispanic Heritage Month. If you (or your children) need ideas for topics, consider one of these!

Brief History

Write a brief history of the month-long observance. Research how it started and why it begins in the middle of the month of September. Use these free writing pages !

Write an essay about the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month. What does it mean to you to be Hispanic? What are some of the challenges and opportunities that Hispanic Americans face? Use these graphic organizers to help you arrange your facts and present them in a thoughtful manner. 

Write a short biography of a Hispanic person who has made a significant contribution to American society. This could be a political figure, an athlete, an artist, or anyone else who has made a difference. Need suggestions? Here’s my post Latinos in History Your Children Should Know with a massive list of names.

Write a poem about a Hispanic poet! As an extra challenge , write the poem in the same style that the poet would write it. Younger children can read (or listen to) one of these 6 picture books that feature Latino poets and then summarize the story .

Write a play about a historical event that impacted U.S. or world history and involved a Hispanic person or issue. This could be a play about the Delano Grape Strike , the Battle of Puebla , or the Bracero Program . 

Write a song about a famous Hispanic person, a Latin American country or city, or anything else that is important to Hispanic culture. Find inspiration by watching the performances of some famous Latin musicians, such as Tito Puente, Celiz Cruz, Selena, or Gloria Estefan, just to name a few.

If you are Hispanic, write a screenplay about a Hispanic family or community. Share your experience with others and allow them a glimpse of what makes your family or community unique!

Write a comic book about a Hispanic superhero. What is his/her background? What is their superpower, and how did they get it? Do they have an alter ego?

Graphic Novel

Write a graphic novel about a Hispanic historical event or figure. This could be a graphic novel about Simón Bolívar, the Liberator, the story of Roberto Clemente, or a celebration of Ellen Ochoa and her accomplishments.

Short Story

Write a short story and include characters of Hispanic or Latino heritage. Try to be authentic and avoid stereotypes.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. There are many other possible writing prompts for Hispanic Heritage Month. The most important thing is to be creative and to write about something that is meaningful to you.

Use Writing Prompts as a Tool

Overall, writing prompts can be a valuable tool in the writing process for homeschool families . I find that they help me as a parent to inspire and guide my children on their journey to becoming skilled writers. When paired with graphic organizers or writing pages, an entire lesson is essentially complete. This makes my job as their teacher easier, and I believe it will be for you, too!

More Writing Prompts

You may also enjoy these other themed writing prompts here on iHN for use in your homeschool!

• Top 10 Writing Prompts for Your Child’s Birthday
• Homeschool Writing Prompts for February- Ideas to Inspire Young Writers
• Groundhog Day Writing Prompts
• 20 Lucky and Creative St. Patrick’s Day Writing Prompts

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Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Hispanic — Hispanic And Hispanic Culture

Hispanic and Hispanic Culture

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Hispanic Heritage Month

By: History.com Editors

Updated: August 20, 2024 | Original: September 11, 2020

Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration of the history and culture of the U.S. Latino and Hispanic communities. Hispanic Heritage Month 2024 will last from Sunday, September 15, 2024 through Tuesday, October 15, 2024. The event commemorates how those communities have influenced and contributed to American society at large.

Origins of Hispanic History Month

The term Hispanic or Latino (or the more recent term Latinx) refers to a person’s culture or origin—regardless of race. On the 2020 Census form, people were counted as Hispanic or Latino or Spanish if they could identify as having Mexican, Mexican American, Chicano, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or “another Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin.”

Hispanic Heritage Month actually began as a commemorative week when it was first introduced in June of 1968 by California Congressman George E. Brown. The push to recognize the contributions of the Hispanic community had gained momentum throughout the 1960s when the civil rights movement was at its peak and there was a growing awareness of the United States' multicultural identities.

Brown, who represented East Los Angeles and a large portion of the San Gabriel Valley—both heavily populated by members of the Hispanic and Latinx communities—wanted to recognize the role played by those communities throughout American history.

On September 17, 1968, Congress passed Public Law 90-48 , officially authorizing and requesting the president to issue annual proclamations declaring September 15 and 16 to mark the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Week and called upon the “people of the United States, especially the educational community, to observe such week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.” President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first Hispanic Heritage Week presidential proclamation the same day.

Hispanic History Milestones: Timeline

From early Spanish colonialism to civil and worker rights laws to famous firsts to Supreme Court decisions on immigration, see a timeline of notable events in U.S Hispanic and Latino history.

Latino, Hispanic, Latinx, Chicano: The History Behind the Terms

The effort to coin a term to describe a wildly diverse group of Americans has long stirred controversy.

How Puerto Rican Baseball Icon Roberto Clemente Left a Legacy Off the Field

The Pittsburgh Pirates' star—the first Latino Hall of Famer in baseball—was a hero for his charity work and social activism prior to his death in a 1972 plane crash.

Why the Date of Hispanic Heritage Month Is Important

The timing of Hispanic Heritage Month coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of several Latin American nations. September 15 was chosen as the kickoff because it coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of five “Central American neighbors,” as Johnson called them—Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Those five nations declared their independence from Spain on September 15, 1821.

In his proclamation, Johnson also acknowledged Mexico, which declared its independence from Spain on September 16, 1810. Although not mentioned specifically by Johnson, Chile also celebrates its independence during that week (September 18, 1810 from Spain) and Belize, which declared its independence from Great Britain on September 21, 1981, was subsequently added to the list of nations specifically celebrated during what is now Hispanic Heritage Month.

Hispanic Heritage Expands From a Week to a Month

From 1968 until 1988, Presidents Nixon, Ford, Carter and Reagan all issued the yearly proclamations, setting aside a week to honor Hispanic Americans. In 1987 U.S. Representative Esteban E. Torres of California proposed the expanding the observance to cover its current 31-day period. Torres wanted more time so that the nation could “properly observe and coordinate events and activities to celebrate Hispanic culture and achievement.”

In 1988, Senator Paul Simon (D-Illinois), submitted a similar bill that successfully passed Congress and was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan on August 17, 1988. And on September 14, 1989, President George H.W. Bush (who had been a sponsor of the original Hispanic Heritage Week resolution while serving in the House in 1968) became the first president to declare the 31-day period from September 15 to October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month.

“Not all of the contributions made by Hispanic Americans to our society are so visible or so widely celebrated, however. Hispanic Americans have enriched our nation beyond measure with the quiet strength of closely knit families and proud communities,” Bush said .

In the decades since, National Hispanic Heritage Month proclamations have been made by every sitting president of the United States.

National Hispanic Heritage Month Hispanic Heritage Month , United States Census Bureau The Creation and Evolution of the National Hispanic Heritage Celebration , United States House of Representatives National Hispanic Heritage Month , Library of Congress National Hispanic Heritage Month, 1989 , The America Presidency Project National Hispanic Heritage Week bill signed , Sep. 17, 1968, Politic

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Essay on Hispanic Heritage

Students are often asked to write an essay on Hispanic Heritage in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Hispanic Heritage

What is hispanic heritage.

Hispanic Heritage is all about the culture, history, and people from Spanish-speaking countries. Think of it like a big family tree that includes Spain and many countries in Latin America. It’s like a colorful quilt made of different traditions, foods, music, and languages.

Famous Hispanic People

Many Hispanic people have done amazing things. Artists like Frida Kahlo painted beautiful pictures. Writers like Gabriel García Márquez wrote great stories. There are also famous leaders, scientists, and musicians.

Hispanic Heritage Month

In the United States, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. It’s a special time when we learn about and enjoy the rich culture of Hispanic people. We have festivals, eat yummy food, and listen to lively music.

Traditional Hispanic Foods

Hispanic food is delicious and includes tacos, empanadas, and paella. Each country has its own special dish. Eating these foods is a fun way to explore Hispanic culture and learn about different countries.

Hispanic Music and Dance

Music and dance are important in Hispanic culture. Salsa, flamenco, and tango are some dances that come from Hispanic countries. They are full of energy and make you want to move to the beat.

250 Words Essay on Hispanic Heritage

Hispanic Heritage is about celebrating the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of people whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Every year from September 15 to October 15, we honor these communities and their impact on society.

The Start of the Celebration

Hispanic Heritage Month starts in the middle of September because it is the anniversary of independence for many Latin American countries. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua all celebrate their freedom on September 15. Mexico and Chile have their independence days on September 16 and September 18.

Food and Music

The food and music of Hispanic cultures are famous all over the world. Tacos, salsa, and guacamole come from these traditions. Music styles like salsa, bachata, and reggaeton make people want to dance and are enjoyed by many.

Many Hispanic people have done amazing things. Ellen Ochoa was the first Hispanic woman to go to space. Cesar Chavez fought for the rights of farm workers. Their stories inspire others and show how Hispanic people have helped shape the world.

Why It Matters

Knowing about Hispanic Heritage helps us understand the diversity of the United States. It teaches us to respect different backgrounds and learn from each other. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage is a way to remember the past and look forward to a future where everyone’s story is important.

500 Words Essay on Hispanic Heritage

Hispanic Heritage is about celebrating the cultures, histories, and contributions of American residents who have come from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Every year from September 15 to October 15, people in the United States honor this heritage. It’s like a big birthday party for all these cultures, where we remember the good things they’ve brought into our lives.

The Start of Hispanic Heritage Month

This special month starts on September 15 because it is the anniversary of independence for many Latin American countries. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua all celebrate their freedom on this day. Mexico and Chile have their independence days on September 16 and 18. This period was chosen to show respect for these important days.

Language and Family

One of the most well-known parts of Hispanic heritage is the Spanish language. It’s the second most spoken language in the United States! Many families speak Spanish at home, keeping the language alive across generations. Family is a big deal in Hispanic cultures, with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins often living close or even under the same roof.

Food from Hispanic cultures is delicious and varied. Tacos, enchiladas, and tamales might come to mind, but there’s so much more! Each country has its own special dishes, like arepas from Venezuela or empanadas from Argentina. Music is just as rich, with styles like salsa, mariachi, tango, and reggaeton. Music and food bring people together, creating memories and a sense of community.

Art and Literature

Hispanic artists and writers have created beautiful works of art and stories. Painters like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera showed the world the beauty and struggles of their lives in Mexico. Writers like Gabriel García Márquez told magical tales that make you feel like you’re dreaming. Their works help people understand the depth and diversity of Hispanic cultures.

Contributions to Society

People with Hispanic heritage have made many contributions to the United States and the world. They have worked in all kinds of jobs, from teachers and doctors to astronauts and judges. Sonia Sotomayor, for example, is the first Hispanic woman to become a Supreme Court Justice in the United States. These role models show that with hard work and education, everyone has the chance to make a difference.

Why Celebrate?

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage is important because it helps us learn about and appreciate the cultures that are a big part of our community. It’s a time to enjoy and share the rich traditions that make life more colorful. By learning about Hispanic cultures, we learn to respect and love the differences that make each of us unique.

In conclusion, Hispanic Heritage is a vibrant and essential part of American culture. From the language and family values to the food, music, art, and significant contributions to society, it’s a heritage that touches everyone’s life. This month-long celebration helps us remember and honor the many ways Hispanic Americans have helped shape the United States and the world.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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Hispanic American Culture and its Impact in America Essay

Hispanic Americans population in USA has been increasing over the last few decades. Today, Hispanic Americans make up about 16 percent of United State’s population and are minority group in the country.

Their presence is felt in various sectors; from work places, business, entertainment, to politics (Cafferty & Engstrom, 2002). As the number of Hispanic Americans increases, their culture is slowly becoming part of American culture.

The term Hispanic is used to refer to a diverse ethnic group united by their use of Spanish language. However, Hispanic Americans originate from various Spanish speaking countries especially in Central and Latin America.

The cultural group share common values by their shared Spanish culture but differ slightly by their country of origin. Hispanic Americans is a highly cultured ethnic group. Hispanic Americans’ family values, language, rituals and religions, etiquette, and eating habits are unique to other ethnic and cultural groups in the country.

The culture of Hispanic Americans has attracted high attention in the recent years. Many of Hispanic Americans maintain their cultures because most are recent immigrants. Family values, etiquette and use of Spanish language are the most distinguishing elements of Hispanic American. Hispanic Americans have high value for their families.

Hispanic American family extends beyond nuclear family and family members relate closely (Clutter & Nieto, 2008). The family is considered as the most important social unit and each family member considers helping other family members as a social responsibility. Family ties are such tight that Hispanic Americans have a habit of visiting one another or even living with other family members.

Spanish language and assent is what is most associated with Hispanic Americans. Most Hispanic American use both English and Spanish but the old and recent immigrants have difficulty in using English. Spanish, however, is the common language that used in Hispanic Americans homes or when speaking to other Hispanic Americans. Apart from language, Hispanic American’s etiquette is unique.

Most Hispanic Americans tend to be formal. For instance, a firm handshake is the common practice for greeting though slight hug and a kill on the cheek can be used among close family members (Clutter & Nieto, 2008). Another cultural feature of Hispanic Americans is religion and rituals. Most of Hispanic Americans are Roman Catholics and religion takes a central place in their lives (Clutter & Nieto, 2008).

Religious rituals such as prayers, attending daily and Sunday mass and celebrating patron saints make part of Hispanic Americans culture. In addition, Hispanic Americans’ eating habit reflects their origin and culture.

Impact of Hispanic Americans culture in American is evident. The most obvious impact is increased usage of Spanish in United States. Today Spanish is used in most parts of the country where Hispanic Americans live or work. A part from spreading Spanish, Hispanic Americans have been successful in small scale business, entertainment, sports and politics and their significance is being respected.

For example, Hispanic American musicians such as Jennifer Lopez, Gloria Estefan and Julio Iglesias and baseball players such as Juan Marichal have been very successful.

In addition, Hispanic Americans interact with other cultural and ethnic groups in the country; in work places, schools, churches and other places and share culture. Consequently, Hispanic Americans culture is slowly being accepted and integrated in American cultures. Hispanic foods, music, dance, clothing are becoming common with other cultural groups.

Hispanic Americans are the most culturally influential minority cultural and ethnic group in United States today.

The Hispanic cultural heritage month (15th September to 15 th October) set aside by United States government, demonstrates the impact of Hispanic Americans in the country (Lamb & Johnson, 2008). The action by the government shows that cultural diversity is something to celebrate and invites all Americans to embrace cultural diversity.

Reference List

Clutter, A. & Nieto, R. (2008). Understanding the Hispanic Culture . Web.

Lamb, A. & Johnson, L. (2008). Latino – Hispanic Heritage . Web.

Cafferty, P. & Engstrom, D. (2002). Hispanics in the United States: an agenda for the twenty-first century . New York: Transaction Publishers.

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IvyPanda. (2019, June 24). Hispanic American Culture and its Impact in America. https://ivypanda.com/essays/hispanic-american-culture-and-its-impact-in-america/

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Florida Students Invited to Participate in 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Contests

August 20, 2024

FDOE Press Office 850-245-0413 [email protected]

Florida Students Invited to Participate in 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Contests

Tallahassee, Fla., August 20, 2024 –  Today, the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida encourage students to participate in the Hispanic Heritage Month student art and essay contests with the theme “ Honoring Hispanic Contributions to Florida’s Success .” Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized and celebrated in the United States from September 15 to October 15.

“Florida’s Hispanic Heritage Month contests provide students with the opportunity to learn about the many Hispanic Floridians who contributed to our state’s success,”  said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr.  “The influence of Hispanic culture is evident throughout Florida and I look forward to seeing the inspiration students gain from the many excellent examples of Hispanic achievement in our state.”

“I am honored to recognize the profound impact Hispanic cultures have on the fabric of our nation," said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo . “As a proud Cuban-American, Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to both celebrate and educate future generations about the importance of community serving others.”

All Florida students are invited to participate in academic and creative contests based on this year's theme. Students in grades K-3 are invited to participate in an art contest, while students in grades 4-12 are invited to participate in an essay contest. Additionally, students, parents, teachers and principals are invited to nominate full-time educators of all student grades for the Hispanic Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award.

About the Student Art Contest 

The Hispanic Heritage Month art contest is open to all Kindergarten through third-grade students in Florida. Each student will submit original, two-dimensional artwork based on this year's theme. Four statewide winners will be selected, and each winner will receive a $100 gift card for school supplies and a 1-year pass to Florida State Parks.

About the Student Essay Contest

The Hispanic Heritage Month essay contest is open to all students attending any Florida school in grades 4-12. Six winners will be selected: two elementary school students (grades 4-5), two middle school students (grades 6-8), and two high school students (grades 9-12). Each winner will receive a 2-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $100 gift card for school supplies.

Contestants must be Florida residents, attend school in Florida in grades 4-12 (including public, charter, private, home or virtual) and able to provide a Social Security Number. Each student may enter only one essay, written in English, no longer than 500 words.

There are many examples throughout our state’s history of Hispanic Americans and their contributions to Florida’s success. Using your own words, write about a Hispanic-American who has had an impactful effect whose story should be shared. The subject of the essay should be a Floridian.

Some examples are:

• Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Florida’s First Hispanic Female Lt. Governor
• Manny Diaz, Jr., Commissioner of Education.
• Juan Ponce De León , first Spanish explorer to reach Florida.
• Madeline Pumariega, first female President of Miami Dade College
• Alex Rizo, Florida State Representative
• Esteban Bovo Jr., Mayor of Hialeah

About the Excellence in Education Award 

Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Hispanic Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award Contest is open to all full-time educators in an elementary, middle, or high school in Florida. Four winners will be selected, and nominations may be submitted by a principal, teacher, parent/guardian, or student. Excellence in Education award winners will receive $2,500 from Volunteer Florida.

Contest Entries and Nominating Forms and Guidelines 

Student contest forms and educator nomination forms must be mailed to Volunteer Florida or submitted online at www.FloridaHispanicHeritage.com .

Volunteer Florida 

Hispanic Heritage Month Committee

1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite 250

Tallahassee, Florida 32308

All entries must be received by 5 p.m. (ET) on Friday, September 13, 2024.  

For more information about the contests, please visit www.FloridaHispanicHeritage.com .

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