The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District joins communities nationwide in celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 through October 15. This month is dedicated to honoring the history, heritage, traditions, and countless contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
This year’s national theme, Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future, reflects the enduring impact of Hispanic and Latino communities on every aspect of American life: past, present, and future. The theme resonates deeply with MPUSD’s 2025-2026 district theme, Honoring the Past. Shaping the Future., and our commitment to uplifting student, family, and community voice in building a stronger, more inclusive educational community.
A Rich Legacy
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15, a date significant for marking the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The month also includes Mexico’s independence on September 16, Chile’s on September 18, and Día de la Raza/Indigenous Peoples Day in October, events that underscore the cultural richness and shared histories celebrated during this time.
According to 2020 Census data, more than 62 million Hispanics live in the United States, representing nearly 19% of the nation’s population and making them the second-largest racial or ethnic group. In California and here in Monterey County, Hispanic and Latino communities are foundational to our culture, economy, and identity.
Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
Hispanic Heritage Month was first introduced in 1968 by Congressman George E. Brown, Jr., during the civil rights movement to recognize the contributions of the Latin community. Initially a week-long celebration under President Lyndon B. Johnson, it was expanded to a 30-day observance by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.
At MPUSD, Honoring the Past means recognizing the historic achievements and cultural legacies of our community. Shaping the Future means empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers, our students, by ensuring their voices, cultures, and identities are valued in every classroom and throughout our community.
The MPUSD Board of Education formally adopts a resolution every fall recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month, underscoring the district’s dedication to honoring the invaluable contributions of Hispanic Americans to the prosperity, strength, and culture of the United States.
Our Commitment
At MPUSD, we know that students thrive when their cultures, languages, and histories are seen, valued, and celebrated. We proudly acknowledge the many Hispanic pioneers, educators, leaders, artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and advocates, who have shaped our past and continue to inspire future generations.
By working hand-in-hand with our families, staff, and community partners, MPUSD remains committed to creating learning environments where every student feels connected, supported, and empowered to succeed.
This month, and every month, we honor the generations of influence that have built our shared history and celebrate the role our Hispanic and Latino communities will continue to play in shaping the future.
