Signed into law in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan, National Hispanic Heritage Month honors the cultures, history and contributions of individuals whose heritage includes Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America. This celebration runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, and coincides with the anniversaries of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.
The Irving Connection
According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 American Community Survey, Irving’s Hispanic and Latino population is 109,851, representing 43% of residents.
On Saturday, Sept. 16, the Irving Archives & Museum, 801 W. Irving Blvd., will open two special exhibitions presented in both English and Spanish, that run through Feb. 4:
- “Popol Vuh: The Sacred Book of the Quiché Through Illustration” features a series of illustrations by Jaime Arredondo, a graduate of MacArthur High School and the University of Dallas. Inspired by the Mayan sacred text “Popol Vuh” depicting the creation of the universe and all living things, this exhibit showcases 65 illustrations, and it is the artist’s hope to generate a greater interest and defense of the art and culture of native and indigenous peoples.
- “Vestuarios de Ballet Folklórico/Fashion of Ballet Folklórico: Expressing Mexican Culture through Dance” will feature traditional outfits used for Ballet Folklórico, courtesy of Alegré Ballet Folklórico. Curated by longtime Folklórico dancer Dominique Avila Fleming, the exhibition will highlight several states of Mexico and the regalia used in the dances. Highly varied in style and dress, and based on geographic region, Ballet Folklórico is a tradition that tells stories of each region through dance.
Irving Public Library Celebrates!