Hispanic, Latino Don't Mean Mexican Marangeli Lopez - The Shorthorn
go to original September 24, 2014

Actor Michael Peña - not "Pena" - wants you to know you might be "missing out on a life of romance, excitement, sensuality, love, naturing [sic]" by failing to use the "ñ." It's like an "n," but with a mustache, Peña explains. (mun2tv)

There is a common misconception that if you speak Spanish in the United States you are automatically Mexican. However, this ignorance enrages the Latino community.

This misconception has become so deeply rooted that every year when Hispanic Heritage month arrives, I have to roll my eyes. Every place I have been to makes this period of time seem like it’s just a Mexican celebration.

Now, I do not have anything against Mexicans. I am just stating that for the rest of us Latinos — we feel underrepresented during this month.

Hispanic Heritage Month was formerly known as Hispanic Heritage Week, it began as an observation of the Hispanic culture in 1968 by president Lyndon Johnson, then expanded to a 30-day period in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan.

This 30-day period begins Sept. 15 and ends Oct. 15 because most Latin American countries such as Costa Rica, El Salvador and Guatemala have their independence days within this period of time.

Latin America refers to more than Mexico – it is Central America, South America and the Caribbean.

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