Hispanic and Latinx history is an intricate and expansive tapestry that encompasses a diverse array of experiences, cultures, and contributions that have shaped not only the United States but the entire Western Hemisphere. Far more than a singular narrative, this history spans centuries, continents, and countless stories of resilience, creativity, and influence. It includes the indigenous civilizations of the Americas, such as the Maya, Aztec, and Inca, to the waves of immigrants who have enriched American society with their cultures, languages, and traditions, and beyond.
While Hispanic Heritage Month offers a valuable opportunity to highlight Latinx contributions, the richness of Latinx history deserves attention year-round with themes like politics, art, culture, and social justice!
In order to provide students with a richer understanding of the past, ensure that your teaching of Hispanic and Latinx history is inclusive, contextual, and relevant. Consider the following as you start integrating this history into your curriculum.
- Diversity of the Latinx Community
The Latinx community is incredibly diverse, encompassing people from various countries, cultures, and backgrounds. This diversity includes differences in language, race, ethnicity, and history. When teaching Latinx history, it’s essential to move beyond a monolithic portrayal and highlight the varied experiences of people from different regions, including in the terms people use to identify themselves.
- Interconnectedness with Broader U.S. and World History
Latinx history is deeply intertwined with broader U.S. and global history. Integrate Latinx history into the larger historical context, rather than treating it as a separate or supplementary topic. For example, look at the impact of U.S foreign policy in Latin America, or the role that Latinx people play in key historical events like WWII. This encourages students to understand how Latinx history has shaped and been shaped by global forces.
- Contemporary Relevance and Social Justice
Latinx history is not just about the past; it’s also about understanding present-day issues and advocating for social justice. Connect historical events to contemporary topics such as immigration, civil rights, economic inequality, and cultural representation. By exploring the ongoing struggles and successes of the Latinx community, educators can encourage students to think critically about current events and the role they play in shaping the future. This approach also fosters empathy and awareness, empowering students to become informed and active citizens.
Ultimately, teaching Latinx history as an integral part of American history fosters a more inclusive understanding of our shared past.
Lessons to get you started:
- National Hispanic Cultural Center- Mundos de Mestizaje Curriculum (K-12): Use the fresco painted by New Mexico artist Frederico Vigil to explore “thousands of years of Hispanic identity, history and culture in a broad sense.”
- Smithsonian’s Nuestra América: 30 Inspiring Latinas/Latinos Who Have Shaped the United States (Middle & High School): A fully illustrated anthology featuring the stories of thirty Latina/o/xs and their contributions to the US’s cultural, social and political history.
- Facing History & Ourselves- Latinx History Unit & Lesson Plans (High School): Activities focus on topics ranging from human & civil rights, to culture & identity, to migration and immigration.
For even more resources for teaching Hispanic Heritage Month, be sure to check out Part 1 and Part 2 of our Teaching Hispanic Heritage Month blog series.
Blog Image Citation: Frederico Vigil, Mundos de Mestizaje, Buon Fresco, National Hispanic Cultural Center, https://learn.nationalhispaniccenter.org/fresco-lesson-plans/.
