Hispanic Heritage Month 

Hispanic Heritage Month,celebrated from September 15 through October 15,  is a  time to honor the rich history, culture, and civic contributions of Americans of  Mexican, Central and South American, and Caribbean heritage. It celebrates our shared heritage and each culture’s unique contributions to the American tapestry.

Hispanic Heritage Month is purposely celebrated in the middle of these months, coinciding with the many Central American countries celebrating their independence days such as Mexico, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

This year’s theme is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,”  invites us to delve into the voices and experiences of Hispanic Americans. It’s a chance to recognize their history, journeys, and achievements and learn about the tremendous contributions Hispanics have made to this country in areas such as entertainment, sports, business, fashion, military, science, art, and more. Their stories inspire us and enrich our understanding of American history.

As you celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, there are numerous ways to honor Hispanic heritage. Consider cooking some traditional dishes to share with family and friends, visiting a museum, watch Hispanic award shows or movies, attend a concert, a parade, or a festival, and read a book by a Hispanic author. The possibilities are endless, and the key is to celebrate in a way that is meaningful to you.

New York City is hosting events honoring our Hispanic community’s influence on our city with events at the New York Public Library (all month long); the Mexican Independence Day Parade (September 15) in Staten Island; Carnaval de Cultural Latina in Queens; the Hispanic Day Parade, also in Queens (September 29); programming and exhibitions at the Hispanic Society Museum & Library (beginning September 5); a Museum of Broadway exhibit (September 15–October 15); El Museo del Barrio's triennial; and works by Puerto Rican photographers on display at the Bronx County Historical Society (beginning September 12).

We are thrilled to share that you will soon receive an announcement on ALANYC’s Hispanic Heritage Month events. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month to our members of Hispanic heritage!

International Equal Pay Day

On September 18, we commemorate International Equal Pay Day. This day represents the long-standing efforts towards the achievement of equal pay for work of equal value. Globally, the gender pay gap is estimated at 20%. The United Nations has made equal pay a priority in their Sustainable Development Goals for 2030. 

Among the methods to achieve equal pay are pay transparency. In September 2023, New York State passed a law requiring businesses to post salary ranges in their job advertisements. This puts all candidates on equal footing in the pay negotiation process. 

For more information on International Equal Pay Day, please visit United Nation (UN.org).

For an overview and more information on New York State Pay Transparency Law, please visit NYS Department of Labor.