Colorful, vibrant posters lined the library in neat rows. The fragrant aroma of cultural dishes filled the air.

On Oct. 8, 2025, the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration was held in the WPHS library—and it was truly a night to remember. Several dozen beautifully detailed posters were on display and student experts shared insights on their respective topics.

This year, students were tasked with researching an important person, artifact or cultural aspect of a Hispanic country. Of all the countries, Spain was the most researched and presented.

“There were so many things to enjoy,” one student said. “But above all, the sense of community felt really special.”

Hispanic Heritage Month exists for that very reason: to celebrate the diversity within our society—something especially visible in White Plains.

The celebration of Hispanic heritage began in 1968, under President Lyndon B. Johnson, as a weeklong observance starting on Oct. 15, the date on which several Hispanic countries commemorate their independence.

Twenty years later, President Ronald Reagan extended the celebration to a full month, aiming to further recognize Hispanic heritage in the United States.

It remains important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month to honor the diversity that shapes our country. When we have representation, we gain perspective—and that leads to a more equitable, empathetic world.