COLUMBIA, S.C. — National Hispanic Heritage Month kicked off this week, a time celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 to honor Latino and Hispanic culture across the country.

For many, the month is not only about recognizing culture but also about highlighting contributions to society.

“I'm celebrating mi patria mis sangre, mi isla. I'm celebrating with my family. I'm celebrating my music, my culture, my food, my history,” University of South Carolina student Derek Diaz said.

Diaz said the celebration carries deeper meaning.

“It's very important to highlight the unity in our community and the resilience not only for you know our generation or past generations but also for future generations, that we are together no matter what,” Diaz said.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 370,

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