Hispanic Heritage Month by YSC Trainees Rachel and Lorena

Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September to October 15.

It is a month-long celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture.  It provides an additional opportunity to explore the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States for generations. Latinos continue to help fuel our economy and enrich our nation as entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, entertainers, scientists, public workers, and in many other ways. 

The American Girl doll Josefina Montoya symbolizes the significance of Hispanic heritage in American history, as her story introduces readers to Mexican-American life in 1820s New Mexico, a period of cultural change after Mexican independence from Spain. Released in 1997, Josefina was their first Latina doll and remains the only Latina or Mexican doll in their Historical Line. There are a few other dolls that are not historical, that are of Hispanic descent. They are Marisol, Lea, Luciana, and Maritza. Josefina is Mexican, Latin American, and Lea is ⅛ Brazilian. 

The goal of Hispanic Heritage Month is to honor the Hispanic and Latino communities and their achievements. The Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations align with the Independence Day celebrations of many Latin American countries. Some of the ways we observe Hispanic Heritage Month are by going to fiestas, having traditional dishes like Enchiladas or Mangu, and celebrating with family and friends. 

You can shop Josefina and the other characters’ collections at Girl AGain Boutique, both in-store and online.