Public Relations

NWACC celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with music, program on Oct. 13

            BENTONVILLE (Monday, Oct. 6, 2008) - As part of Hispanic Heritage Month, the NWACC Global Communities Center will sponsor a program Monday, Oct. 13. At 12:15 p.m. live music will be in the Student Center. At 1 p.m. a forum will be held in White Auditorium.

            The term Hispanic is defined as those with hereditary roots to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Central or South America. It is a regional identification rather than one of race.

            Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated at this time of year because of the independence anniversary for five Latin American countries – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico declared its independence September 16, and Chile September 18”

            Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated not only to share in the festivities and culture but also to embrace the influence and impact this unique group of races has had on the United States.

            The influence of Hispanic culture in the U.S. can be seen in the food, music and even vocabulary. The Spanish language has contributed to more than 10,000 words used in the U.S.

            Foods indigenous to Hispanic countries, which are widely used today, include chocolate, peanuts, vanilla, beans, squash, avocados, coconuts, corn and tomatoes.

            Hispanics have also made a positive influence in government, economics, the military and science and technology.

            The population has grown to nearly 45 million, making Hispanics the number one minority in the country. Hispanics have also made a great impact in economics. Nearly two million own businesses which generate more than $200 billion in revenue for our economy.

            The Hispanic presence in the U.S. military has been felt since the Civil War era, with 39 earning the Medal of Honor and 1.1 million serving their country today.

            Hispanics may come from an array of nationalities, but this time of year they are united in recognition of their culture, heritage and pride for their continued positive impact in American society.

For questions/comments on this content, contact Viviana Pagan,
Multicultural Outreach Coordinator, 479-619-4163.

This page was last updated on:  December 21, 2009 @ 8:51 am