Future Institute

Alumni Views: National Hispanic Heritage Month

  • "Education is extremely important to the Hispanic community, as well as faith, and certainly working hard" -Luis Fortuno

    Magally Solis
    CMSA, Class of 2016

  • President Lyndon B. Johnson first approved the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Week back in 1968. Years later, President Reagan expanded this observance to an entire 30 days. As a result, each year on September 15th, the United States begins celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. This is a time when our nation, and all of us at CMSA, recognize the many valuable contributions of Hispanic Americans to our U.S. history while exploring the many gifts of our cultures.

    I think it’s safe to say that Latino families celebrate their culture every day. It is who we are at our core. As a Cuban American it is gratifying for me to see our culture acknowledged and celebrated. Latinos are an intricate part of the American fabric and we are very proud of our contributions.
    Hispanic Heritage Month offers the perfect opportunity to learn more about the history of our ancestors. It helps create an understanding of the role that Latinos have played in U.S. history and the affect we’ve had on the culture. Juntos, logramos mucho!

    Irene Bermudez
    Alumni Relations Coordinator
    Community Engagement Coordinator
    Chicago Math and Science Academy (CMSA)

  • It was not until a few years ago that I learned about National Hispanic Heritage Month and realized is to be recognized from Sept 15-Oct 15. I must say that I am pleased to be able to explore and adapt to new things. This month is very important to me because the Latino and Hispanic culture has helped influence us in so many ways. We benefit from diversity and the extra flair the Hispanic community brings to modern society. According to the 2011 census bureau one in every six people in the US are Hispanic. They contribute to our everyday life by blending cultures and traditions. We can benefit from such as important views on humanity, equality, politics, and we can even benefit from the fine Hispanic cuisines that are popular here in America. We must acknowledge and respect the contributions of Hispanics in every aspect of our society. Hispanics are fast becoming the new foundation of our country's economic, political and social-cultural power and, based on their promise, they as an immigrant group stand out in the history of our great nation as being full of potential. So let’s take the time to recognize such an influential month.

    Siobhan Barnett
    HSA Cleveland High School, Class of 2003

  • Cultural diversity in the US is important for the development of our nation and the prosperity of our citizens. The world is full of different kinds of wonderful people, and allowing ourselves to learn about those different cultures not only nurtures the omnipresent tolerance that we must strive towards to achieve a more peaceful tomorrow, but makes life that much more interesting. Being Mexican is one of the most pride-inducing and life-indulging parts of my very being. Born in America but raised by a Mexican household has allowed me to see the world in a way that many are not privileged enough to see. Being Hispanic is a blessing, and this month it is important to not only honor our traditions and rich history, but reflect on our actions and see if we are indeed striving for the sort of tolerance and cultural respect that can only lead to a prosperous future for generations to come. And party too, because being Hispanic is not only about fighting for what is right; it's about celebrating life itself and the ability to live in a world where pride in your heritage is not only supported, but encouraged.
    ¡VIVA MEXICO Y LA HISPANIDAD!

    Michelle Lopez
    CMSA, Class of 2014

  • Happy National Hispanic Month. Here's to celebrating diversity in our great nation!

    Alex Pettis
    HSA Cleveland High School, Class of 2010