Every year, from September 15th to October 15th, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the rich history and culture of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Starting as a week-long celebration in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month has been recognized within the United States for 57 years. At South Windsor High School, this celebration holds significance as it is a time for students and teachers to come together and recognize the diverse culture in the school community.
“In and out of school, Hispanic culture is represented and respected,” senior Logan Luna told The Prowl.
During the month, South Windsor students observe various changes that appear within the SWHS building. In an effort to promote inclusion, faculty members hang up flags and flyers representing Hispanic/Latino heritage and promoting events related to the month’s celebrations. These events such as the Hispanic Heritage Fair are now traditions that showcase rich culture integrated within the student body.
The Hispanic Heritage Fair has been a source of community for many years, giving students and faculty the opportunity to connect through trying new foods, reading book excerpts, viewing culturally significant art pieces and conversing with members of the Hispanic and Latino community. In addition, performances and informational sessions are offered, allowing the Hispanic community to come together and commemorate their shared history.
Along with inclusion of Hispanic and Latino students, non-Hispanic community members are given the chance to attend the fair and learn about different cultures that make up their town. This creates an awareness and acceptance of differences amongst students.
Within the classroom, high school Spanish teachers have integrated Hispanic Heritage Month into students’ learning. By highlighting authors, music and prominent members of the Hispanic community, awareness of the impact Hispanic and Latino Americans have had on America is raised.
“I implement a lot of culture in my lessons, not just highlighting obviously my own culture which I think is important but others around, because there are twenty-one Spanish speaking countries that are very diverse,” Spanish teacher, Senora Tobon commented.
Expanding beyond the school walls, this month is a pillar in the South Windsor community, as much of South Windsor identifies as Hispanic or Latino. By celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, South Windsor High School continues to not only celebrate and honor the past, but builds a community where everyone is valued and respected, setting future generations up to promote inclusion and acceptance.
