September 15, 2020

by Gerard Roman

In 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month was originally observed as "Hispanic Heritage Week"; it wasn't until 1988 the week-long observance became a month-long celebration. Since then, every year from September 15th to October 15th, American citizens celebrate through festivals, art shows, conferences, and community gatherings to honor the generations of Hispanic and Latino Americans that make this country such an example of freedom and equality.

The Latinx community has positively influenced and enriched our nation and society from our earliest fights for independence to our current search for a solution to COVID-19.

Diversification is an essential component of NIH's mission is to seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and the application of that knowledge to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability. We're reliable, capable, and resilient because of our many races, ethnicities, cultures, faiths, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages, abilities, and backgrounds. During this year's campaign, as we deal with the challenges presented by COVID-19, I invite you to recognize and honor the silent contributions of the Latinx colleagues next to you and the tremendous impact our diverse workforce has on helping to accomplish the mission and goals of the NIH.

Sincerely Yours,

Debra Chew, Esq.
EDI Director

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