HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

August 31, 2026August 7, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 5 Comments

Beginning on September 15, and continuing through to October 15, we recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. During the four weeks, celebrations honor the heritage and contributions made by members of the Hispanic community. President Lyndon Johnson first declared Hispanic Heritage Week in September of 1968. Years later, in 1988, U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres (D-California) introduced legislation to expand Hispanic Heritage Week into a full month. Festivities begin on September 15, marking the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. With great fanfare, celebrations sweep across Latin America, Central American, and on into Mexico and Chili commemorating each country’s independence from week to week!

CONTRIBUTIONS

As of 2016, the Hispanic population has grown to nearly 57 million people in the United States. Amazingly, Hispanic people contribute to two-thirds of the residents, with that number increasing every day. Furthermore, an estimated 27 million Hispanics were eligible to vote that same year, proving people of Hispanic heritage are a thriving part of society. As the Hispanic population continues to grow in strides, more opportunity presents itself to embrace the rich culture and vast history they provide. From coast to coast, we celebrate Hispanic heritage every day in mainstream society. It’s not only reflecting our cultural differences; it’s adding a different perspective to our lives for us to enjoy.

Hispanic people across the country contribute to society in unprecedented ways. Historically, Alberto Gonzales is credited as being the first Hispanic U.S. Attorney General, while Mel Martinez is considered the first Cuban-American U.S. Senator. Currently, and politically, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, both members of the Hispanic community, are members of the U.S. Senate. Sonia Sotomayor is the first Hispanic to sit as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice. Undeniably, representation from the Hispanic community is found in schools, public office, medical, fashion, as well as every aspect of business.

In addition, pop culture contributions by the Hispanic community flourishes thanks to many talented artists, such as Salma Hayek, George Lopez, Carlos Santana, and Jennifer Lopez. Finally, we need to give credit to the countless tasty Hispanic recipes found across the nation. Hispanic food has increasingly become a part of mainstream Americana. We relish the flavor and spice deeply infused into the traditions. Dishes ranging from tacos and tamales to Cuban sandwiches, nachos, Tres leche cake, family taco night, tequila, and Mojitos, entice us to enjoy the Hispanic heritage, one bite at a time.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH HISTORY

Originally, President Lyndon Johnson declared Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. Through later legislation, submitted by U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres (D-California), the week was expanded to National Hispanic Heritage Month under the direction of President Ronald Reagan in 1988.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #HispanicHeritageMonth

Joining local celebrations during National Hispanic Heritage Month is a fantastic way to meet new people. Additionally, you can learn more about the contributions Hispanics have made in areas of politics, business, the arts, sports, fashion, and cuisine, to name a few. Embracing the history and traditions of another culture not only broadens your knowledge, but it also teaches appreciation of other people and their customs.

Use #HispanicHeritageMonth in social media correspondence.

NATIONAL CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

May 31, 2026May 18, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 5 Comments

National Caribbean-American Heritage Month in June recognizes the contributions of the Caribbean-Americans to the diversity and broader landscape of American culture.

Caribbean American immigrants and residents of Caribbean U.S. territories are a vibrant part of the American melting pot. They have a long tradition of contributing to our communities and serving their country. From the first Secretary of Treasury, Alexander Hamilton to civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois and Jennifer Carroll, Lieutenant Governor of Florida, Caribbean American’s step up to challenges across generations.

The month is an opportunity to celebrate the heritage, history, and cultural diversity and a time to explore the traditions Caribbean-Americans carry with them.

HISTORY

The official campaign for a National Caribbean American Heritage Month began in 2004 when a legislative bill was tabled in Congress by Congresswoman Barbara Lee. Language was provided by ICS Founder and President Dr. Claire Nelson. The Bill was reintroduced and passed the House in June 2005 and the Senate in February 2006. A Proclamation making the resolution official was signed by President George W. Bush on June 5, 2006.

In 2006, actress and singer Sheryl Lee Ralph and basketball great Rick Fox were named official spokespersons for National Caribbean American Heritage Month. Learn more at www.caribbeanamericanheritage.org.

Each year, ICS works with our partners at a number of organizations to present a parade of events for varied palates. Learn more about this year’s events at www.caribbeanamericanheritage.org.

Learn to celebrate more heritages. After all we often have much more in common that unites us.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Share your experiences and knowledge during National Caribbean-American Heritage month. Learn the history of immigration from the Caribbean by visiting museums and exhibits. Visit with friends and family members and learn about their experiences and culture. Use #CaribbeanAmericanHeritageMonth to share on social media.

GATHERING OF NATIONS

April 24, 2026April 3, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 6 Comments

The Gathering of Nations is the largest pow-wow in North America. It is always the fourth weekend in April every year, on the Powwow Grounds at Expo NM, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. More than 565 tribes from around the United States and 220 from Canada travel to Albuquerque to participate.

The Gathering of Nations Pow Wow is a two-day event for all people (Indian and Non-Indian) to come see colorful Native American Pow Wow dancing, to hear the songs and become enlightened with emotional happiness!

With over 3,000+ indigenous/Native American/Indian dancers and Singers representing more than 500+ tribes from Canada and the United States come to the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow annually to participate socially and competitively.

It has been said by many that the Gathering of Nations PowWow is the Mecca of Indian Country; while others have said “There is a magic about the “Gathering.”

Many people from around the world have made the Gathering of Nations Powwow their travel destination. The Gathering of Nations has grown to become more than just a “Powwow“, it’s an experience! While the Miss Indian World Pageant has become the largest and most prestigious Cultural Pageant for young Native/Indigenous women over the years.

HISTORY

The Gathering of Nations began “unofficially” in 1983 at the University of Albuquerque, in ABQ, NM. In 1984, the event took on the name Gathering of Nations Powwow, which was held on the NM Fair Grounds in the small Horse Arena, for two challenging years. After the two years at the Horse Arena, GON knew it had to move to a larger venue.

Explore more heritages… Learning our commonalities help unite us.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Visit the Gathering of Nations website.
Follow on social media with: #GatheringOfNations and #MissIndianWorldPageant
Follow on Facebook
Follow on Twitter

IRISH-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

February 28, 2026February 23, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

Irish-American Heritage Month during March in the United States, Americans recognize the numerous contributions of Irish-Americans to the U.S. throughout the years. From the founding fathers to innovative transportation, arts and culture, Irish immigrants for generations left deep roots in the American landscape.

Criss-crossing the country, Irish-American Heritage holds rich traditions and an unmistakable can-do spirit. Their infectious character and indomitable personalities have brought us 22 presidents including Ulysses S. Grant, John F. Kennedy, Ronald Regan, and Barack Obama to name a few. From inventor and businessman, Henry Ford to journalist Nellie Bly, author F. Scott Fitzgerald and dancer Gene Kelly, their endless talents fill many roles.

IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH HISTORY

Since 1991, presidents of both political parties have designated March as Irish-American Heritage Month with a goal to honor the contribution that Irish immigrants and their descendants have played in the formation of the United States. President Donald Trump declared the Month of March as Irish-American Heritage Month in 2017. Visit www.whitehouse.gov to view the proclamation in its entirety.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #IrishAmericanHeritageMonth

Share stories and Irish-American heritage throughout March. Read about the Irish in America or watch a documentary. We’ve provided a few suggestions below. Explore the archives of your local museum and heritage center to learn their traditions and culture. Discover their language and family bonds. How did they impact the country and what traditions did they bring with them or leave behind?

Out of Ireland: The Story of Irish Emigration to America by Kerby A Miller and Paul Wagner

The Irish Americans: A History by Jay P. Dolan

The Fitzgeralds and the Kennedys by Doris Kearns Goodwin

The Irish in America: Long Journey Home

Celebrate the enduring contributions of the Irish-American and use #IrishAmericanHeritage to share on social media.

KOREAN AMERICAN DAY

January 12, 2026January 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

Korean American Day on January 13 commemorates the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States in 1903. The day also honors the Korean American’s immense contributions to every aspect of society.

In 1882, the United States and Korea signed a treaty establishing a peaceful relationship, friendship, and commerce. While this led to Korean diplomats, students, politicians, and businessmen visiting the United States, few felt compelled to stay.

It wasn’t until December of 1902 on the SS Gaelic that 102 Korean immigrants set sail for Honolulu, Hawaii. These families initiated the first wave of Korean immigration, resulting in over 7,500 immigrants over the next two years.

They served their communities and their country during World Wars I and II and the Korean War. During these times, more Koreans decided to emigrate from their homeland; some, as wives to U.S. servicemen, others were adopted as children.

Honoring a Few

Ahn Chang Ho – also known as Dosan, one of the earlier immigrants, Ho is credited with establishing the Willows Korean Aviation Corps in the United States, which later helped establish the Korean Airforce.

Sammy Lee – Olympic two-time gold medalist in diving (1948 – London) and (1952 – Helsinki).

Wendy Gramm – Served as U.S Commodity Futures Trading Commission chair under Presidents Reagan and Bush I.

Judge Herbert Y.C. Choy – First Asian American appointed to U.S. Federal Court (Court of Appeals Ninth District) in 1974.

David Hyun – Architect charged with revitalizing Little Tokyo in Los Angeles.

Sang Hyun Lee – First tenured Asian American professor at Princeton Theological Seminary

Hines Ward, Jr. – Professional football player for the Pittsburgh Steelers

KOREAN AMERICAN DAY HISTORY

In 2003, President George W. Bush proclaimed a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Korean immigrants. In 2005, the U.S. House and Senate passed simple resolutions in support of Korean American Day. Since then, states across the country have passed bills declaring January 13th as an annual celebration of Korean American Day.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #KoreanAmericanDay

Learn more about Korean Americans then and now. Read books about their experiences or watch documentaries. We’ve provided two books:

You can also visit Korean American Story to hear their stories or document your own. Find out more or share your experience by using #KoreanAmericanDay on social media.

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NATIONAL CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Learn to celebrate more heritages. After all we often have much more in common that unites us.

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