Diocese commemorates Hispanic Heritage Month

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on Sept.15 and ending on Oct. 15. It was enacted into law on Aug. 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

The day of Sept. 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 Sept. 16 and Sept.18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is Oct. 12, falls within this 30 day period.

Bishop Walker Nickless discusses Hispanic Heritage Month in his column this week:

“From our diocesan Mass counts in 2023, over 13% of our parishioners attended a Spanish language Mass. Cathedral Parish in Sioux City has nearly 85% of parishioners attending Spanish language Masses while Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, based in Sioux Center, had 76% of parishioners attending a Spanish or bilingual Mass. 
“Spanish Masses are also offered in Denison, Estherville, Fort Dodge, Le Mars, Sheldon and Storm Lake. Celebrations such as Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass and fiesta, Las Posadas, cultural fairs and Day of the Dead are now commonplace in our diocesan parishes and schools. We are so grateful for the rich diversity in the diocese due in part to our Hispanic faithful and to those of other ethnic communities.”

If your parish or school has an event for Hispanic Heritage Month, send your information and/or photos HERE.