HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Office here will observe Hispanic Heritage Month through Oct. 15. This year’s theme is “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America.”
The observance is in recognition of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua declaring their independence from Spanish colonization on Sept. 15 in 1821. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.
“This month we come together as one diverse force to celebrate the rich tapestry of Hispanic culture,” said Ray Anderson, DEIA chief.
Col. Taona Enriquez, installation commander, signed a proclamation earlier this month to mark the month-long observance. Chief Master Sgt. Alan Weary and other members of the workforce were on hand to mark the occasion.
The Air Force Materiel Command will host a Cross-Cultural Mentoring Panel in conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 27 at 2 p.m. The virtual event, hosted on ZoomGov, is open to all uniformed and civilian Airmen.
“During this month, we reaffirm that diversity is one of our country’s greatest strengths,” said Enriquez, in a recorded message to the workforce. “We recognize that America cannot succeed unless all families and communities prosper, sharing equally in the benefits of our country’s success.”
Hanscom AFB officials will host a free event to commemorate the month Oct. 11 beginning at 11 a.m. at the Minuteman Commons. The event is open to all those with base access.
The month-long observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to a 30-day observance.
To learn more about Hispanic heritage, visit https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/.
For further information about Hispanic Heritage Month and associated activities, call Anderson at 781-225-1309.