The history behind Hispanic Heritage Month and Independence Days

September 15 kicks off the month-long celebration known as Hispanic Heritage Month. It starts off in the middle of the month because five Hispanic countries gained independence from Spain on September 15, 1821. On that day, select Central American representatives signed the Act of Independence of Central America, asserting independence on the following countries: Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, which collectively share the same Independence Day. Although they all recognize their independence on September 15, some countries like Costa Rica didn’t find out they were free until a month later.
This day is special to the citizens as many show their patriotism. The people in El Salvador, for example, “have a strong sense of identity” (Independence), which was redefined after their liberation from the Spaniards. However, the original roots of the people remains.
In all five countries, their celebrations are vibrant and lovely. People dress in the colors in their flags, they host parades where they honor students and the military. In Honduras, there are three days dedicated to parades.
With NPH-USA (Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos), schools in Nicaragua prepare a couple months prior and perform dances, baton routines, and band marches in their parades. Costa Rica hosts an event the evening before where kids make lanterns for El Desfile De Faroles, a tribute to Dolores Bedoya; the girl activist who spread the message of their independence.
A special tradition that comes with their collective and individual independence is the torch run that is carried from Guatemala to Costa Rica. On September 9, the torch run commences at El Obelisco and is carried to all five countries, ending in Cartago, Costa Rica. This tradition signifies peace, unison, and friendship.
Citizens from these countries find closeness within their community as they are connected as Centro-Americanos. These positive emotions should be felt when celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month.
But these aren’t the only countries celebrating their independence during this month-long celebration. Mexico’s and Chile’s independence days fall on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Both countries also have parades to celebrate. One event that shows a difference is El Grito that gets recreated every September 16, which reenacts Miguel Hidalgo ringing the church bell signalizing the Mexican War of Independence.
Anyone can celebrate these Independence Days and there are lots of ways. Enjoying chocolate, which originated in Guatemala, or appreciating the art movement, Modernismo, which flourished because of Ruben Dario and his poems, are unique ways to recognize freedom and contributions of these countries.