Last month, our district recognized Hispanic Heritage Month, which occurs from September 15 until October 15. National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
The observation of Hispanic Heritage Month started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.
To recognize Hispanic Heritage Month, some of our HTHS students participated in a virtual discussion with Dr. Alexandra Diaz Pardo - a radiation oncologist at The James Cancer Center at Ohio State University. Dr. Pardo shared her story of growing up in Columbia and working hard to become an accomplished physician at one of the world’s top cancer research institutions.
During this virtual discussion, students were able to ask specific questions regarding Hispanic heritage, and steps that they should take if they are looking to go into the medical profession in the future.
“I think that students need to see women working in science-related fields, and minorities in positions where they are under-represented,” says Spanish Teacher, Ms. Morgan. “Dr. Pardo is very encouraging of the students, and is a great representation of how hard work can help you achieve your goals.”
Thank you to Mr. McDuffie, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator at HTHS, and Ms. Morgan, HTHS Spanish teacher, for providing our students with this learning opportunity.