Hispanic Heritage Week, as a celebration, began in 1968 under former president Lyndon B. Johnson. It was later expanded on a national level in 1988 to be a full month, and has since covered the 30-day period from September 15th to October 15th.
Fort Hamilton celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month through holding a school-wide Hispanic Culture Celebration on October 10th, 2024. Various clubs and organizations took part in the celebration, including Latinos Unidos, the Chicano Club, and the International Travel Club. The celebration included the selling of desserts as students enjoyed empanadas courtesy of food vendors. Students also danced to Cumbia and Reggaeton both individually and in groups.
Emily Guo, a member of and part of the executive board for Spanish Language and Hispanic Culture Club, noted that this collaboration and the outreach to other students was part of why the event was so enjoyable.
“We are incredibly honored to be able to bring this event to the school and hope that in future years this event will be hosted as well,” she said.
Mr. Torres, the faculty advisor of the Chicano Club and another organizer of the event, said that the event hoped to promote more visibility for Hispanic culture at Fort Hamilton. To that end, a banner was hung near the front of the celebration showcasing the portraits and names of several notable Hispanic cultural figures.
Devin Moore, vice president of Fort Hamilton’s student government, was pleased with the turnout by various clubs, saying, “I think it brings good vibes to the school,” and hoping for similar events to be held in the future.
Other organizers expressed a desire for similar events that highlight diversity at Fort Hamilton to be held in the future. Mr. Torres also made note of the Chicano Club’s future plans to host a Day of the Dead art celebration with a similar aim of boosting community at Fort Hamilton. Mr. Alvear, Activities Coordinator, added that, “As a member of this amazing learning community, it is important that we continue to highlight the diversity that Fort Hamilton is known for and to show our students that their stories matter and that each and every one of them comes from a place that is highly respected.”
