WNY Hispanic History
Hispanic’s have been part of the fabric of WNY Community since
the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. When they arrived here humbly looking for the “American Dream,” they were determined
to work hard to improve the lives of their families here and the
loved ones left back home.
They arrived, like many other immigrants, as non-English speak­ers
with the hope to someday become citizens and contribu­tors to
this great area called Western New York. They worked in fields,
factories, rail yards, steel plants, and any place that would offer
meaningful employment and the opportunity for success. Today,
Hispanics in WNY contribute professionally in the private and public sectors, continuing the honorable traditions of their ancestors.
Why Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the contributions of His­
panic Americans to the US and celebrates Hispanic heritage and
culture. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage
Week during President Johnson’s administration and was ex­
panded to cover a 30-day period, September 15 to October 15,
by President Reagan in 1988. The observance became law on
August 17, 1988.
September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebra­
tion because it is the anniversary of independence of Costa
Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. They all
declared their independence in 1821. In addition, Mexico and
Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and
18, respectively.
Resources
www.hispanicheritagewny.org
[email protected]
THE COUNCIL IS DEDICATED
TO PRESERVING THE HISTORY OF
HISPANICS IN WESTERN NEW YORK
FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.
Vision
The Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York, Inc. is
a leading organization that chronicles the past—and creates
opportunities for the future—contributions of the Hispanic community
to Western New York’s rich historical and cultural landscape.
Mission
The mission of the Hispanic Heritage Council of
Western New York, Inc. is to foster and inspire awareness,
understanding, and appreciation of past, present, and future
contributions of the Hispanic community in Western New York.
Three Kings - January 6th
The Hispanic tradition of celebrating the Three King’s Day or El Día De Los
Tres Reyes Magos, dates back as early as the 16th century. It is celebrated
twelve days after Christmas which falls on January 6th and is also referred to
as “The Feast of the Epiphany.” Many Latin American countries and Hispanic communities throughout America still cherish this custom and perpetuate
it by passing it on to their children. This celebration teaches them the history
and the practice of their faith. It is a way to help them stay focused on what
the season is really about.
El Día del Niño - April 30th
El Día del Niño is a celebration that originated in Mexico and dates back to
1925. It is now observed in many Latin American and other countries around
the world. This observance recognizes the importance of children in society.
In 1997, the Day of the Child was linked with language and literacy as a way
of supporting the well being of children.
Cinco de Mayo - May 5th
This holiday commemorates the victory of the Mexican militia over the
French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Cinco de Mayo is primarily a
regional holiday celebrated throughout the Mexican state of Puebla, and
especially in the capital city of this state, also named Puebla. The holiday
has limited recognition in other parts of Mexico, but is celebrated in many
U.S. cities and particularly in those with a significant Mexican population.
Hispanic Heritage Month
Each year between September 15 and October 15 the HHC, in collaboration with the arts and cultural groups of Buffalo and Erie County, will sponsor
the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration This will
include a variety of community activities and events
that celebrate Hispanic heritage, history and culture.
Community Breakfast
The Council will host an annual community breakfast to announce its plans for the coming year and
to reflect on the previous year’s accomplishments.
The event will feature a Hispanic leader as a guest
speaker.
www.hispanicheritagewny.org