by Josue Sanchez, co-Editor-in-Chief

Hispanic Heritage Month, which began last month on the 15th, reflects centuries of history in South and Central America—history that continues to be told through the experiences of St. John Bosco students in the present day.

The celebration started in September to commemorate the independence of various Central and South American countries. The first day, September 15th, remembers the signing of the Act of Independence of Central America in 1821, which led to the declaration of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica as independent countries.

The following day remembers Mexican independence leader Miguel Hidalgo, who on September 16, 1810 launched the Mexican independence movement.

Other significant events take place throughout the month as well, like the Chilean celebrations of independence that start on September 18th, or perhaps most recognizable to most Americans, Columbus Day, known as “The Day of the Race” to Hispanics.

While this historical significance is important to acknowledge, it is also very important to see how these historical events and celebrations have changed local communities.

This has been seen in a variety of ways at Bosco. Mr. Eduardo “Lalo” Díaz, a current social studies instructor for Bosco juniors, joined the school last year. Coming from Mexico City, his background has made him see the impact that Hispanic culture and contributions have made to the United States.

“The U.S. educational system hasn’t recognized us or given us our place in the history or development of our country,” said Mr. Díaz. “Celebrating our contributions to the development of our country, our city and the state of California is important so that we broaden the love that our people have for México.”

Mr. Díaz believes that Hispanic-American students—not just at Bosco, but elsewhere—live within two juxtaposed environments. At home, they might exclusively speak Spanish, which is something they might not do while at school. In his view, we should all be proud of our backgrounds—and should maintain and keep these cultures in mind, lest they be forgotten.

“We want to keep these traditions,” said Mr. Díaz.

As a teacher of US history, he also believes in the importance of recognizing Hispanic contributions to this nation.

“By teaching [students] United States history, I must include events that show us [Latinos] as people who have contributed to American development,” said Mr. Díaz. “The United States didn’t get to where it has without the help of many cultures.”

He believes that it is important for everyone to know about the influence of cultures present within the United States, as it is important to keep these cultures alive.

Ms. Cindy Rayas has also seen the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month at Bosco. As the World Languages Department Chair, the Moderator of the Spanish Honors Society and a Spanish teacher for sophomores and juniors, she interacts with a large portion of Bosco’s Hispanic students.

She notes the ways that Hispanic culture has made many proud here at Bosco. Many of the other cultures, she believes, are diverse, with their own selection of cultures and traditions.

“[Hispanic] culture is rich in many aspects. It makes me feel proud, as well as the language. Each country has its own traditions,” Ms. Rayas said.

She also recognizes the connection that Hispanic cultures have with religion—something central to students’ educations at Bosco. Oftentimes, these ideas are completely intertwined with each other.

As a Spanish teacher, she has also noticed specific trends amongst each of her classes. She emphasizes the importance of learning Spanish culture alongside the Spanish language.

“The students who speak Spanish at home have a more ingrained culture,” said Ms. Rayas. “I tell them: everything is connected, especially when it comes to language.”

She notes that it is very important for Hispanic students to respect their own culture and to not feel like they cannot embrace their Hispanic heritage because they don’t speak Spanish as much as they would hope.

“If they don’t respect their culture or language, others won’t respect us,” said Ms. Rayas. “Therefore, it is important to tell them to respect their culture and to respect who they are.”

In future years, Ms. Rayas plans to help with special events relating to the celebration of Hispanic culture, including a potential celebration for Our Lady of Guadalupe, as well as various potlucks. These, she hopes, will lead to the promotion of Hispanic culture on campus, encouraging students to be proud of their cultures.

“[I want them] to feel proud of who they are and of where their parents came from. We were born here in the United States, but we must remember that our beginnings come from Latin America,” said Ms. Rayas. “We must always carry that with pride.”