President Barack Obama issued a proclamation as the U.S. begins to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month and has asked institutions to commemorate the role of Hispanics in American society.

Authorized in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, National Hispanic Heritage Month was a weeklong occasion, but Congress extended it to a full month in 1988. On Sept. 12, Obama recognized Hispanics as a "vibrant and thriving" population of the U.S.

"Their histories and cultures stretch across centuries, and the contributions of those who come to our shores today in search of their dreams continue to add new chapters in our national story," Obama said. "This month, we honor the rich heritage of the Hispanic community and celebrate its countless achievements."

The president recognized this year's National Hispanic Heritage Month theme as "Hispanics: A legacy of history, a present of action and a future of success," saying he wants Americans to be reminded of Hispanics' efforts that have "enriched" the country and its character. According to Obama, generations of Hispanics have represented the "spirit" of the U.S., which includes hard work for a better life and future.

"My administration is committed to supporting and fighting for policies that help Hispanics succeed. We are investing in programs that better prepare students and workers for today's economy, continuing to address disparities in health care, and pushing initiatives that grow our middle class," Obama said.

Obama's proclamation also addressed immigration. The president stated immigration reform "remains crucial" for the U.S. economy. He said the U.S. is "deprived" of educated immigrant workers who should "stay and innovate" in the country. Obama also acknowledged immigrant families suffer from unfair wages because of labor "in the shadows." He reiterated his call for Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform and said he's determined to address the immigration system with "sustainable and effective" executive action.

The president's proclamation noted Hispanics are advancing the U.S. economy, improving communities and "bettering" the country, adding, "During National Hispanic Heritage Month, let us renew our commitment to ensuring ours remains a society where the talents and potential of all its members can be fully realized."

Obama called for educators, librarians, public officials and "all Americans" to observe the month with appropriate activities, ceremonies and programs.

Coinciding with the first week of National Hispanic Heritage Month, Obama issued a second proclamation announcing Sept. 14-20 as National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week, to recognize colleges and universities that have large Hispanic enrollments and provide financial assistance to Hispanic students. According to Obama, Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) provide "essential education opportunities" to the "rising group" of Hispanic artists, entrepreneurs, innovators and scholars.

"Hispanic Americans represent the largest and one of the fastest growing minority groups in the United States, yet they are continually underrepresented in our colleges and universities. HSIs -- where more than half of America's Hispanic undergraduates attend -- are critical to increasing the college enrollment, retention, and graduation rates of this expanding population," Obama said, noting the federal government invested over $1 billion during the past 10 years to help HSIs expand, renew and reform higher education programs for Hispanics.

The dropout rate has fallen within the Hispanic community, and more Hispanics are enrolling in college than ever before. According to Obama, more can be accomplished by increasing Pell Grants and providing tuition tax credits and better student loan repayment options.

"When we strengthen our HSIs," Obama said, "we help ensure that all our children, no matter who they are or where they come from, have the chance to achieve their dreams."