The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) proudly recognizes National Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This is a time which celebrates the contributions, heritage and culture of Hispanic and Latino Americans as well as the anniversary of independence for several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico and Chile.

The theme for 2023 is Prosperity, Power and Progress, honoring the significant strides of Hispanics in the economic, political and social growth of the U.S.

Hispanic/Latino leaders statewide are important role models in many sectors, serving as volunteers, Veterans, nonprofit workers, business owners and government employees who have worked in unity to support vibrant communities. They have also fought discriminatory practices in favor of a more inclusive Minnesota, where everyone feels welcome personally and professionally.

Hispanics and the military

• While “Latino” and “Hispanic” are more modern terms, soldiers of Spanish or Latin American heritage have fought in every U.S. conflict since the Revolutionary War.
• The first Hispanic recipient of the Medal of Honor, the armed forces’ highest award, was Joseph H. De Castro, who served in the Civil War as the Massachusetts Infantry’s color-bearer. To date, 61 men of Hispanic heritage have been awarded the Medal of Honor.
• Latinos comprise about 19% of the U.S. population and. according to Department of Defense statistics, make up 17% of active-duty service members. The Marine Corps has the highest percentage (23%) of Latino active-duty members.
• According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, there are nearly 1.3 million Latino Veterans, or about 8% of the Veteran population. By 2045, this figure is projected to reach 12%.

Enjoy a variety of events and places to visit throughout the month

• Heritage Month, Sept. 15, 1-7 p.m., Lake George Memorial Park, St. Cloud
• Latinx History Month – Corn Tortillas and More, Sept. 21, 6 p.m., Seward Community Co-op, Minneapolis
• Latin Music and Food Fest, Sept. 22, 5-11 p.m., Firemen’s Park, Chaska
• Feeding Our Souls: The Essence of Latino Joy, Oct. 5, 6-8 p.m., Minnesota Humanities Center, St. Paul
• Mercado Central, Midtown Global Market, Lake Plaza, Marissa’s Supermarket are local Twin Cities businesses offering dozens of restaurant and shopping options.