ANSWERS TO GO with Pamela Carlile

San Marcos Public Library

625 E. Hopkins St.

512-393-8200

Q. What is Latinx Heritage Month?

I’ve always heard the term Hispanic Heritage Month. What is the difference?

A. Latinx Heritage Month and Hispanic Heritage Month are two different names for the same event. In 1968, Congress passed Public Law 90-498, which authorized and requested President Lyndon Johnson to issue an annual proclamation designating the week including Sept. 15 and 16 as National Hispanic Heritage Week.

In 1988, Congress passed Public Law 100-402, which amended Public Law 90-498 and established National Hispanic Heritage Month. The President was again authorized and requested to issue an annual proclamation designating the 31-day period beginning Sept. 15 and ending on Oct. 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month. President George H. W. Bush issued the first proclamation for National Hispanic Heritage Month on Sept. 14, 1989.

The month-long observation of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. 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.

While Latinx Heritage Month and Hispanic Heritage Month are both correct terms for the same event, many people have shifted away from using the word “Hispanic,” and instead are using the word “Latinx” to be more inclusive. The term “Hispanic” is defined as “relating to Spain or to Spanish-speaking countries, especially those of Latin America.” By definition, this term excludes indigenous, Brazilian, and other non-Spanish-speaking groups.

The term “Latino” is more inclusive because it refers to the geographic location of Latin America, rather than the Spanish language. However, the terms “Latino” and “Latina” are also exclusive in regards to gender. “Latinx” (pronounced luh-TEE-neks) is a gender-neutral term that has recently gained popularity, and is inclusive of gender-expansive and gender non-conforming individuals.

Language is challenging and constantly evolving. Unfortunately, there is not one perfect umbrella term to describe the many unique cultures and histories celebrated during Latinx Heritage Month. In terms of personal identification, keep using whatever term feels most authentic to you. As a Mexican-American, I personally identify with the term “Chicana” (Chicano, Chicana, and Chicanx are chosen identities for people of Mexican descent born in the United States), but often use “Latinx” when speaking in more general terms.