Celebrating Latinx and Hispanic Heritage Month With History, Art, and Culture on Newsela
¡Vamos a celebrar! Vamos celebrar! Latinx and Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration that begins on September 15 and continues until October 15 to celebrate the culture, history, and people of Latinx and Hispanic heritage. We hope teachers of all grades and subjects are finding unique and creative ways to bring Latinx and Hispanic culture into the classroom and we’d love to help spark some ideas on how best to do that.
Here are a few ways to make the most out of Latinx and Hispanic Heritage Month in your classroom:
1. Introduce why and how we celebrate
Introduce Latinx and Hispanic Heritage month to your students by defining terms and sharing stories like those from America Ferrera, who views her identity as her superpower! You can use this lesson spark to help introduce some of the history and culture that’s celebrated throughout the month.
2. Dive into the stories of Latinx and Hispanic leaders and trailblazers
From Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor to Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina in space, to labor organizer Cesar Chavez, there are countless role models and historical figures who have paved the way for Hispanic and Latinx communities. When students can see their own identities and cultures reflected in what they’re learning, they’re more engaged and motivated to participate.
3. Immerse your students in Latinx and Hispanic culture
One of the best ways to learn is to experience. Have students read about famous musicians like Carlos Santana and listen to his music, or read an article about making holiday tamales and try to make them on their own!
4. Explore the breadth of artistic and scientific accomplishments of the Latinx and Hispanic community
Have students choose a Latinx or Hispanic scientist or artist to read about and create a one-pager to present visuals, facts, and ideas about the person’s life and accomplishments. They can also present how their accomplishments have influenced their fields!
Discuss diverse perspectives with curated resources
Newsela can support your classroom with all of these activities through our content showcasing the rich intersectionality, achievements, and joy of the Latinx and Hispanic communities. This month we hope students are engaged in meaningful conversations, learn more about themselves and their peers, find representation in topics they care about, and are introduced to new perspectives or histories they may not have encountered before. Most of all, we hope to celebrate the diverse perspectives and accomplishments of the Latinx and Hispanic communities. Salud and saúde!