National Hispanic Heritage Month highlights cultural diversity of Spanish-speaking Americans

By TERRY TANG
Associated Press

PHOENIX (AP) — Hispanic history and culture take center stage across the U.S. for National Hispanic Heritage Month. The annual celebration, which spans Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, recognizes contributions made by Hispanic Americans, the fastest-growing racial or ethnic minority, according to the Census. It includes people whose ancestors come from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. From California to Florida, numerous Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations begin Friday. It has been 55 years since Hispanic Heritage Week was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. President Ronald Reagan expanded it to a month in 1988.