Video: Hispanic Heritage Month – Sept 15th to Oct 15th

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – They’re some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Mark Anthony. Hispanic Americans have helped shape our culture. Today marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month.

From government service, to sports, film and television and music. The influence of Hispanic Americans is everywhere. Hispanic Heritage Month begins September 15th each year. The term Hispanic or Latino, refers to Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish cultures, regardless of race. Twenty-three year old Felipe Hernandez was raised in Starkville. Now he works in Columbus at the family owned restaurant Mi Hacienda.

“We’re just hard working people, you know, like everybody else. There’s really no difference,” says Hernandez.

According to the 2010 Census, Hispanic Americans represent 16% of the US population and are now the largest ethnic group in the nation. One of the most unique aspects of Hispanic culture is the food. From salsa, to enchiladas and quesadillas, Mexican cuisine has become an American favorite.

“Cheese dip is very famous too. I know a lot of people love that. The parties and a lot people know the music. Cinco de Mayo is very famous. People like margaritas, they’re very famous. I think everybody just enjoys it,” says Hernandez.

“We come here on Mondays because it’s Mi Hacienda Mondays. We try to get away from our work for just a little while to kind of make sure we have time to come and enjoy a good meal. The folks have always treated us with kindness and respect,” says Customer Steve Brown.

Mi Hacienda has been in business for 12 years. The owners hope their customers get a taste of Hispanic culture and hospitality. So just what does Mi Hacienda mean?

“It’s just like a luxurious ranch,” says Hernandez.

Hispanic Heritage Week was first recognized in 1968. It was later expanded to a month-long recognition of contributions made by Hispanic Americans.

Hispanic Heritage Month was enacted into law in 1988 by President Ronald Regan.