Official Heritage Month Celebrations in Los Angeles date back to 1949, when Mayor Fletcher Bowron issued a proclamation to recognize African American Heritage Month. Over time, the City has elected to celebrate various heritage months consistent with federally designated monthly observances. Many cities celebrate residents’ cultural heritage during these federally designated monthly observances.
The City of Los Angeles has historically celebrated a handful of culturally-specific communities officially for at least one month each per year, and in one case has done so for over 65 years:
African American Heritage Month (AAHM): February
The first African American Heritage Month (AAHM) Celebration in LA began in 1949 when Mayor Fletcher Bowron issued the first proclamation calling for all citizens to celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans. In 1959, the opening ceremony was moved to City Hall. In 1976, the entire month of February was officially declared African American History Month in LA. Every Mayor since then has recognized the month, especially the late Mayor Tom Bradley.
Latino Heritage Month (LHM): Mid-September through Mid-October
In its current form, the first Latino Heritage Month Celebration in LA began in 2002 when DCA produced the first Latino Heritage Month Calendar and Cultural Guide.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBTHM): June
The first Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Heritage Month (LGBT HM) Celebration in LA began in 2011.
Asian Pacific American (APAHM): May
The first Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month (APIAHM) Celebration in LA began when DCA produced the first Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month Calendar in 2004.
American Indian Heritage Month (AIHM): November
The first American Indian Heritage Month (AIHM) Celebration in LA began in 2006 when DCA produced the first American Indian Heritage Month publication.