Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Discovery en Español celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month


Discovery en Español announced Tuesday, Sep. 10 that they will broadcast original productions, and community events offering information about self-improvement and employment opportunities, in celebration of NationalHispanic Heritage Month. During National Hispanic Heritage Month, the network will pay homage by showcasing the spirit of achievement and determination shared by Hispanics who immigrate to the United States in search of a better future.

From September 15 to October 15 Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the history, culture and contributions of persons that are of Spanish, Mexican, Caribbean, and Central and South American decent. Enacted by President Johnson in 1968, National Hispanic Heritage Month was expanded by President Regan in 1988, to cover the 30-day period of September 15 to October 15.

This 30-day period holds great significance for many Hispanics. September 15 marks impendence day for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Additionally, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sep. 16 and Sep. 18 respectively. Rounding out the Month is Día de la Raza (Columbus Day – Oct. 14), which is celebrated on its actual date of Oct. 12.

As for Discovery en Español, during this period the network will be presenting special programming related to immigration every Sunday at 10 p.m. and the network will continue its Descubre tu talento campaign, which provides the Hispanic community with resources and information in Spanish about job training and opportunities.

As part of Descubre tu talento, Discovery en Español continues its collaboration with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation and its “Latinos On Fast Track” (LOFT) program, which prepares students to make a successful transition from high school to college. LOFT will hold a series of events this month in cities around the country featuring training sessions, lectures and workshops on such topics as finance, business, entertainment and education, beginning in Texas on Sep. 22.

The network’s on air initiatives will include the premiere of a series of shorts created specifically to highlight the success stories of U.S. Hispanics. Additionally, with an eye toward the current debate on immigration reform in Congress, Discovery en Español will feature original productions focusing on this topic and the determination of the Hispanics who decide to risk everything to seek a better future in the United States. These documentaries, made by Hispanics for Hispanics, will air Sundays at 10 p.m. and a listing of shows can be found on The Daily Dose.