Month offers time for heritage lessons
by Javier Garcia Jr., NW News Editor

  As we recognize Hispanic Heritage Month, I believe we can learn much more about our culture and the contributions made by Hispanics in our country.
   However, some of us don't take the time to listen and learn when the opportunity is presented.
   Diez y Seis de Septiembre is the focal point of Hispanic Heritage Month and maybe the day most recognized. It marks the day Mexico gained its independence from the colonial rule of Spain in 1810.
   Unfortunately, some Hispanics don't know the difference between Sept. 16 and Cinco de Mayo, another holiday.
   During Hispanic Heritage Month, Hispanic communities schedule parades as well as festivals on the weekends. The festivals are great for friends and families to have a good time.
   In my teenage years, the place to be was Marine Park. I always looked forward to the festivals so I could meet up with friends. The live music was always great; the fajitas were delicious, and the girls in attendance were all so lovely.
   However, at that young age, I failed to recognize the arts and crafts exhibits as well as the colorful paintings displayed to the community at those festivals year after year.
   This personal experience is only one example of how some Hispanics, like me, need to know the purpose of such events and learn more about their culture instead of ignoring it.
   I will be the first to admit that I need to learn more of it.
   I'm not suggesting going out and learning about the history of the Aztecs and Mayas. How about getting to know more about your family and its heritage? See what family members have had to go through to live a better life. Learn what they have contributed to your family as well as to society.
   Talking to parents and grandparents can be helpful and beneficial in this endeavor. Between the two, you can definitely find some history.
   With Hispanics growing at a record rate and soon becoming the majority race in Texas, we should not have that many clueless Hispanics.
   What can be done to improve the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month?
   We can all do more. For instance, we can attend events that are scheduled for the month and view the work of those influencing our community.
   Let's have more special reports on news programs, radio programs and articles in magazines and newspapers throughout the year.
   But first and foremost, let's learn more from our families.