Here's a Look Back at How Hispanic Heritage Month Came to Be

"We want the American people to learn and appreciate our heritage."

35 years ago, Congress voted by voice vote to expand National Hispanic Heritage Week to a month-long observance.

The push to expand the observance to a month was led by then-CA Rep. Esteban Torres, who first submitted a bill in 1987.

Torres's bill built on the work of Rep. George Brown, who designated National Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. (House.gov)

Torres: "We want the public to know that we share a legacy with the rest of the country." (House.gov)

Torres's bill died in committee, but was revived in 1988 after Illinois Sen. Paul Simon amended and reintroduced the bill.

Simon's amended bill passed both chambers by voice vote, and was signed into law on Aug. 17, 1988. (House.gov)

Torres and several legislators celebrated the passage of the bill on the House floor, including NM Rep. Bill Richardson.

Richardson: "During this one month...our entire nation will join [us] to recognize the many contributions [we have] made."

Richardson: "A nation emerging...with tremendous potential...We are part of the American mainstream."

That's All!