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National Hispanic Heritage Month 2012
Posted 9/28/2012 Updated 9/28/2012
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55th Wing Equal Employment Opportunity office
9/28/2012 - OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- In 1988, in an effort to recognize people of Hispanic descent, Congress enacted the National Hispanic Heritage Month into law covering a 31-day period from Sept. 15 - Oct. 15.
The theme for this year's observance is "Diversity United, Building America's Future Today," highlighting the vital role Hispanics continuously play in the events that shape the USA.
"Our Nation's story would not be possible without generations of Hispanics who have shaped and strengthened the fabric of our Union," said President Barack Obama in a presidential proclamation honoring this year's Hispanic Heritage Month. "They have enriched every aspect of our national identity with traditions that stretch across centuries and reflect the many ancestries that comprise the Hispanic community."
The proclamation also highlighted the Hispanic communities' contributions in the defense of the nation.
"They have led movements that pushed our country closer to realizing the democratic ideals, closer to realizing the democratic ideals of America's founding documents, and they have served courageously as members of our Armed Forces to defend those ideals at home and abroad," the president said.
By design, Hispanic Heritage Month observances begin on Sept. 15 to coincide with the day several Latin American countries celebrate their Independence Day. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua each celebrate their Independence Day on Sept. 15, Mexico on Sept. 16 and Chile on Sept. 18. People are often surprised to learn Columbus Day, "Día de la Raza," is also celebrated during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Throughout the years, the Air Force has established relationships with Hispanic associations such as the League of United Latin American Citizens and continues to support these types of diverse professional development forums. Through these relationships, the Air Force further increases awareness among cross-cultural audiences for educational and career opportunities available in the Air Force.
Regardless of our background, we share a common belief in the enduring promise of America - the promise that no matter where we come from or what we look like, each of us can contribute towards, Building America's Future Today. |
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