Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15th, and this 30-day celebration honors the rich and diverse contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.
The festive month, which goes to October 15th, was first founded in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson but was expanded to an entire month in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan. September 15th marks the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Some U.S. cities celebrate with parades and festivals filled with Hispanic music, food, and culture.
This year, we’re spotlighting Afro-Latinos, individuals of African and Latino descent who have profoundly influenced music, sports, entertainment, and more. These individuals often showcase their roots and educate the public on what it truly means to be of African and Latin American descent.
Zoe Saldana
Born to a Dominican father and Puerto Rican mother, Saldana has long proudly embraced her Afro-Latina identity.
Zoe Saldana is a black women. Her parents are Dominican and Puerto Rican so her ethnicity would Hispanic or Latina.
2/ pic.twitter.com/4ktqmkIIOh— ktagoe (@ktagoe2) July 15, 2020
Celia Cruz: The Queen of Salsa
Celia Cruz, known as the “Queen of Salsa,” was born in Havana, Cuba. Her music heavily celebrated Afro-Cuban rhythms and heritage.
Christina Milian
Christina Milian has long used her platform to speak out about her Afro-Cuban-American upbringing.
Yaya DaCosta
Yaya DaCosta is a proud Afro-Brazilian American. She was born to Brazilian and Nigerian parents
LaLa Anthony
Born in Brooklyn, New York, LaLa Anthony has identified as Afro-Puerto Rican.
Cardi B
The rapper has long been open about her father being Dominican while her mother is a Trinidadian.
These adored Afro-Latino entertainers have shaped the cultural landscape, breaking barriers and inspiring millions. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s essential to recognize and honor their unique contributions.
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