National Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) takes place from September 15 to October 15 every year as a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Latino community.
Beginning in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month was originally observed as “Hispanic Heritage Week,” but it was later extended to a month in 1988. Since then, HHM has been celebrated nationwide through festivals, art shows, conferences, community gatherings, and more. “The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30-day period.
This National Hispanic Heritage Month, our San Joaquin Valley Veterans, project of WestCare California, celebrated by sharing a quote/photos that resonated with their Hispanic Heritage Pride. Please continue reading below to see what some of our staff had to say!
Brenda Vasquez
“Here are some photos I want to share as celebrations of my heritage!
I’m a first generation from Jalisco, San Juan de los Lagos. I was a big tourist in 2021 because it was the first time I visited the motherland. Highly recommend Andares Centro Comercial if y’all visit and want to shop in a bougie area! ” – Brenda, Journey Veteran Advocate
Joseph Guzman
“A quote that resonates with me this month is from Ernesto de la Cruz. He says ‘No one was going to hand me my future, it was up to me to reach for my dream, grab it tight and make it come true.’ ” – Joseph, Outreach Specialist
Karla Fitzgerald
“In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month & Mexican Independence Day, I’m sharing this picture of my 2-3-year-old self dressed as a Guare. I was born in Michoacan, Mexico. This is a traditional dress worn on December 12 of Dia de la Virgin De Guadalupe. This national holiday in Mexico commemorates the day when the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to an indigenous boy, Juan Diego, in 1513. This picture looks really old, but I’m not that old! 
” – Karla, Lead Data Specialist
Manuel Martinez
“Fun fact: I was born in my beautiful country El Salvador and in the home that my parents, siblings, and I still have. El Salvador has so many active volcanos, and here are some pictures of my country from the recent years I have visited with family scenery and soccer games.” – Manuel, Senior Veteran Advocate
Robert Adams
“A quote that resonates with me this month is from Juana Inés de la Cruz. She says ‘I don’t study to know more, but to ignore less.’ ” – Robert, Shallow Subsidy Advocate
Yadi Renteria
“I am a proud first generation to parents from Jalisco, Mexico! The state is known for Mariachi music, charreadas (Mexican rodeos) and tequila! We love a good time. ” – Yadi, SSVF Program Coordinator
Yvette Morales
“I’m also a first generation! My parents are from Zacatecas (mom) and Oaxaca, Mexico (dad). Growing up and visiting these places, I got to see my family make different types of mole, which is one traditional food that Oaxaca is known for. It’s an ancient dish that goes back to who knows where, but a long time ago. 
” – Yvette, Lead Veteran Advocate
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