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Airmen celebrate diversity through Hispanic heritage
Posted 9/27/2012 Updated 9/27/2012
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by Airman 1st Class R. Alex Durbin
633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs
9/27/2012 - LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. -- Every year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens of Hispanic descent.
The observation started as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson. The week was expanded to a 30-day period and enacted into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.
While most heritage celebrations begin on the first day of their respective months, Sept. 15 is a significant day because it is the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept.16 and 18, respectively.
Hispanic heritage month is one of the many months that celebrate the diversity of the many ethnicities that comprise American culture.
"Diversity is what makes America the greatest country in the world," said Staff Sgt. Kurt Heinz, Hispanic heritage council sergeant-at-arms. "It's paramount to remember the importance of diversity and what each culture brings to this country."
Technical Sgt. Vanessa Goris, Hispanic Heritage Council president, feels that diversity is the cornerstone of any successful organization.
"Every person of every culture brings something new to the table," she said. "Each person's diverse background and experiences provide a different outlook that benefits everyone as a whole."
Heinz, originally from Mexico, moved to Ventura, Calif., in 1997 at the age of 12. Unlike the United States, many countries require mandatory military service. Heinz voluntarily joined the Air Force as a way to give back to a nation he felt gave so much to him.
"I am grateful for the opportunities I was given," Heinz said. "Serving is my way of paying it back."
While Hispanic Heritage Month ends Oct. 15, it is never too late to celebrate the diversity that brings our country together and makes it one of the greatest in the world.
"The American dream is still alive," Heinz said. "I believe I've accomplished it." |
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