Hispanic Heritage Month in Santa Monica kicks off from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, and the Santa Monica Public Library is joining in the celebration with a lineup of events and initiatives. According to the City of Santa Monica, the library aims to spotlight Hispanic and Latino/Latinx culture, history, and contributions within the community.
The term "Hispanic" applies to individuals with roots in Spanish-speaking nations, being a label that the U.S. government introduced in the 1970s, as detailed by the City of Santa Monica. Despite being an identity not chosen by these communities, the term has contributed to mobilizing for civil rights and cultural recognition efforts. Santa Monica has embraced its diversity, with nearly 40 percent of city staff identifying as Hispanic or Latino/Latinx.
Oreste's blog post also highlights the proclamation of Hispanic Heritage Month, which will occur at the City Council's regular meeting on Sept. 30. Santa Monica High School's Club Legado Latino and local partner Familias Latinas Unidas will participate in the proclamation, affirming Santa Monica's message of inclusion and equity. As part of the celebrations, events at the library include a travelin' storytime, a book reading with author and illustrator Mirelle Ortega, and a performance by the Santa Monica Ballet Folklórico, as per the City of Santa Monica. In light of contributing to Hispanic Heritage Month, the city's Recreation and Arts Department is hosting 'Vamos Al Parque' on Oct. 12, offering an immersive cultural experience with lounge areas, artmaking, live performances, and vendors, as written by Oreste.
Additional events include a screening of Carlos, a documentary on guitarist Carlos Santana, and the Mexican Presence in Santa Monica Project, which highlights the history and influence of Mexican American families in the city. Remembering: Songs of Home, Stories of the Heart will explore immigration and identity through music and storytelling, offering residents a chance to engage with Santa Monica’s Latino heritage.
