Spanish 
National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th to Oct 15th. This holiday is a time to celebrate and honor the history, culture, and contributions of people with Hispanic and Latinx backgrounds in the United States. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to inspiring role models who have made a positive impact on the world!
Join us in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, as we spotlight several inspiring role models for kids whose courage, creativity, and resilience have helped pave the way for future generations.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Children’s Museum
Come celebrate culture, language, and heritage at the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County! Check out our PLAYology Playbook blog for more fun kid’s activities and facts to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. In celebration of the holiday, we’ve also curated a special collection of picture books at our Family Resource Center, so be sure to stop by during your next visit!
Plus, mark your calendars for a variety of family-friendly events happening throughout September:
MOG Van: Fiesta de Independencia
September 15, 2024
Find the Museum-on-the-Go van at the Luther Burbank Center for the 15th annual Fiesta de Independencia.
Celebrando Culturas Juntos
September 21, 2024
Come celebrate the vibrant diversity of our community by honoring Hispanic Heritage Month at CMOSC.
Inspiring Role Models for Kids During Hispanic Heritage Month
Positive role models play an essential role in shaping a child’s development. They can inspire pride and help influence the goals, values, and aspirations of younger generations. Children learn by example and imitation, and having positive figures in their lives can significantly impact their self-esteem, character, and future choices.
These inspiring role models come from diverse backgrounds and professions, but they all share a rich Hispanic heritage that shaped their unique stories. Read on to explore the stories of several extraordinary individuals who have made remarkable contributions to our world and whose achievements can serve as inspiration to us all.
Dr. Ellen Ochoa (NASA Astronaut)
Dr. Ellen Ochoa made history as the first Hispanic woman to journey into space. She served on four NASA space shuttle missions and logged nearly 1,000 hours in space. Her leadership led her to become the first Hispanic and second female director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Dr. Ellen Ochoa is a role model who has broken barriers and opened doors for countless individuals. Her story is a powerful reminder that the sky is truly the limit.
Roberto Clemente (Baseball Player)
Roberto Enrique Clemente Walker was the first Major League Baseball player from Latin America to win a World Series and to receive a World Series MVP Award. Born in Puerto Rico, he was a symbol of pride for his community, celebrated not only for his athletic abilities but also for his humanitarian spirit.
Roberto Clemente was heavily involved in charity work, advocating for Puerto Rican rights and using his platform as a famous athlete to help those in need across the globe. His story continues to inspire children to pursue their passions and strive to have a positive impact on the lives of others.
Selena (Singer)
Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was one of the most celebrated Mexican-American musical and cultural icons of her time, and whose legacy continues to inspire people of all ages. Born and raised in Texas, Selena was known as the “Queen of Tejano Music.” Her music blended traditional Mexican and contemporary styles, captivating audiences all over the world.
Selena was also deeply committed to giving back to her community. She dedicated countless hours to volunteering and hosting charity events that supported education, children’s and women’s causes, and more. Selena is an amazing role model who inspires children to follow their dreams, celebrate their heritage, and give back to their community.
Cesar Chavez (Civil Rights Activist)
Cesar Chavez was a leading labor and civil rights activist who helped establish the first successful workers union for farmers in United States history. Co-founding the United Farm Workers Union, he led nonviolent protests, boycotts, and strikes, to fight for better working conditions and fair wages.
His nonviolent approach and unwavering commitment to social justice improved the lives of countless farm laborers and agricultural workers. To this day, Cesar Chavez is a symbol of hope, courage, and determination for communities and civil rights movements around the world.
Sonia Sotomayor (Supreme Court Justice)
Sonia Sotomayor is the first Hispanic Supreme Court Justice, and the third woman to ever serve on the Supreme Court. Sonia brings a unique perspective and much-needed diversity to the highest court in the United States, especially on issues related to civil rights, immigration, and equality.
Sonia Sotomayor’s intelligence and hard work have paved the way for countless others, and her commitment to fair and just public service makes her an inspiration to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Everyday Heroes
It’s important to remember that positive role models and everyday heroes come in all shapes and sizes. By looking around our own neighborhoods, we can find countless Hispanic and Latinx people making a positive difference in our communities every day. These heroes might be:
These are just a few examples, and there are countless other everyday heroes out there, right now! While they may not be famous, their contributions are invaluable and serve as an inspiration to us all.
Celebrando Culturas Juntos at the Children’s Museum
Celebrando Culturas Juntos at the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County
September 21, 2024 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Join us at the Children’s Museum on September 21, 2024, for Celebrando Culturas Juntos! Created in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the annual event features fun and educational children’s programming, art activities, live performances, and more!
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