In 1988, September 15 through October 15 was officially designated as Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) by the federal government. This proclamation, signed by President Ronald Reagan, came after several decades of advocacy, passion and persistence from community and political leaders. Nationally, HHM encompasses South and Central America, the Caribbean and Spain.
The George Washington University (GW) presented its first annual Latino Heritage Celebration (LHC) in 1996. Promoting the values and traditions of South and Central America, the Caribbean and Spanish cultures, LHC programs include student culture shows, performers, distinguished guest lectures, seminars and educational events.
The Multicultural Student Services Center (MSSC) provides logistical, content and ideological support for Latinx organizations to collaborate and promote cultural awareness throughout LHC. Students, faculty and staff with varying leadership experience and skill sets are encouraged to participate in LHC. All activities related to LHC are facilitated by MSSC senior staff and graduate student coordinators. The minimum requirement for involvement is to have a commitment to and passion for Latinx culture. For more information, call 202-994-MSSC (6772).
