Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15, recognizing the history, contributions, accomplishments, and influence of Hispanic and Latino cultures. Hispanic Heritage Month does not cover one single month but instead begins in the middle of September and ends in the middle of October. The timeframe of this month is significant because many Central American countries celebrate their independence days within these dates, beginning on September 15 with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. By aligning with these independence dates, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the resilience and determination of the Hispanic community. Your Donation Supports Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund MALDEF (Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund) opened its doors in 1968, founded by Mexican American activists from throughout the southwestern United States to pursue civil rights for the Latino community through the legal system. MALDEF promotes social change through advocacy, communications, community education, and litigation in the areas of education, employment, immigrant rights, and political access. Consciously modeled on the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, MALDEF has earned, through its history, a reputation as the “law firm of the Latino community.” Today, nearly half a century after its founding, MALDEF continues to vigorously pursue a mission of protecting and promoting the civil rights of all Latinos living in the United States. UnidosUS We build a stronger America by creating opportunities for Latinos. Hispanic Scholarship Fund As one of the nations leading nonprofit organizations, HSF has awarded over $756 million in scholarships and provides a broad range of programs and support services for students, parents, HSF Scholars, and HSF Alumni. For more information about HSF, please visit [HSF.net](http://hsf.net).
