Every year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15
Hispanic Heritage Month has been celebrated every year since 1989, and it celebrates and honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans in the United States of America.
According to the 2019 U.S. Census Bureau population estimate, there are 60.6 million Hispanics living in the United States. Even though the population of Hispanic has slowed down since 1990, the Hispanic population continues growing more than any other population. Maricopa County, in Arizona occupies the 4th largest Hispanic population in the U.S with 1,140,000 which equates to 31% of Arizona’s population.
FACTS ABOUT THE MONTH!
- It started as a National Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson but it was introduced by California Congressman George E. Brown.
- On September 17, 1968, Congress passed Public Law 90-48 authorizing the beginning of the celebration week.
- In 1987 it was proposed in the congress to expanse the observance to a 31 day-period.
- The Hispanic Heritage Month celebration starts in the middle of September to coincides with the National independences of several Latin American Countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua
Celebrating Our People at the Y!
At the Y, we’re proud of the people who make our community strong. Every team member brings a unique background, voice, and passion that helps shape the work we do every day.
This month, we’re excited to highlight two outstanding employees who share Hispanic and Latin heritage: Alicia Bravo and Isaiah Teran.
They each answered four questions about their personal journeys and cultural backgrounds — here’s a little more about who they are:
Isaiah Teran is currently our Program Director of Childcare at Tempe Family YMCA, transitioning to Healthy Living Director at Tempe Family YMCA.
Provide a short introduction about yourself (fun fact)
I have worked for the Y for many years now, out in California before coming to the Valley of the Sun YMCA. A fun fact about me is I love food and will NEVER turn down pizza.
Who do you owe your Hispanic heritage?
My Grandparents but more so my grandmother, is from Chihuahua, Mexico.
What do you appreciate the most about your heritage?
I appreciate how much it has prepared me to work with people from many backgrounds, both in the workplace and in the world. It’s also given me the confidence to advocate for others and help amplify voices that may not always be heard. Hispanic Heritage represents many rich cultures, and being part of that — and sharing it with the community — invites others to learn and connect beyond just heritage.
What is a Hispanic family tradition that you love the most?
My favorite tradition is during Christmas time, we make tamales for dinner, but the process is not a quick process, so our whole family does a little to help out whether it is making the "masa" or wrapping with corn husks. Your hands get messy, but we do it together and it becomes a gathering of hours of work with music and conversation until all are ready to eat and enjoy together.
Alicia Bravo is currently our Program Director of Preschool at Southwest Valley Family YMCA.
Provide a short introduction about yourself (fun fact)
I am a West Valley, Arizona Native. My great grandmother, Lucy Moreno, grew up in Litchfield Park on Camp 52 picking cotton. She is featured in Arizona History books as one of the famous Balloon girls that helped build the Goodyear Blimp. I am also small business owner. I own a dance studio in Litchfield Park.
Who do you owe your Hispanic heritage?
All four of my grandparents are Hispanic.
What do you appreciate the most about your heritage?
The food and strong family values.
What is a Hispanic family tradition that you love the most?
Holiday gatherings.
If you’d like to learn more about our team, our members, and the amazing stories that shape our community, follow us on our social networks: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn.
JOIN OUR TEAM
At the Y, we are always looking to hire passionate people from different from different backgrounds. If you are looking for a career with a cause, join our growing organization and make an impact in the lives of those around you! Learn more about our openings here, and make a lasting difference with a career at the Y!
