[3 MIN READ] 

In this article:

• Hispanic Heritage Month is from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.

• Learn about some notable Hispanics/Latinx in the health care industry.

• This is a time to celebrate and support the Hispanic/Latinx community and engage in meaningful conversations about the culture.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month 

As we commemorate National Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the rich traditions, history and resilience of the Hispanic/Latinx community. This month-long celebration, from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, signifies a time to reflect on the journey, triumphs and ongoing challenges Hispanic/Latinx individuals face. Let us unite in appreciation and understanding of this vibrant culture. 

The history: How the celebration started

The observance started as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 and was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1988. September signifies the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Nicaragua. Additionally, on Oct. 10, the U.S. Virgin Islands honor Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day.

In honor of Hispanic heritage, here are some honorable mentions of Hispanic/Latinx contributors in health care:

• Antonia Novello, M.D.: The first female Hispanic Surgeon General of the US. She was among the first to focus on women with AIDS and neonatal HIV transmission. She also increased Hispanic/Latinx American participation in health care discussions, addressing issues like domestic violence and underage drinking.
• Serena Auñón-Chancellor, M.D.: The first Hispanic physician in space, working on research related to cancer and Parkinson’s disease on the International Space Station in 2018.
• Severo Ochoa, M.D.: A pioneer in molecular biology. He discovered an enzyme critical for RNA synthesis, advancing our understanding of the human genetic code. He also became the first Hispanic person to win the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine.

Ways to celebrate and support Hispanic Heritage Month

• Do a quick web search to find a local event or visit Eventbrite for virtual and in-person options
• Support local Hispanic/Latinx-owned businesses
• Read about Hispanic/Latinx history milestones

A heartfelt Happy Hispanic Heritage Month to all our Hispanic/Latinx patients, communities and caregivers!

To be inclusive, we are using the terms Hispanic and Latinx to refer to both language and geography. This terminology may be updated as it evolves.

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Related resources

Hispanic Heritage Month caregiver spotlight

Honoring the rich tapestry of Hispanic and Latinx cultures

Food for the soul: Hispanic Heritage Month

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional’s instructions.