Hispanic Heritage Month begins Thursday, September 15 and runs through Saturday, October 15. This month serves as a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions and extensive history of the Latino community and a variety of events are set to take place throughout the month citywide. Common Council President José G. Pérez is inviting residents to join the celebration all month long, including a cultural celebration set for Friday, September 16 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at City Hall, 200 E. Wells St.
“The Hispanic community is now the largest minority group in Wisconsin and is the fastest growing demographic in the city according to the 2020 Census,” said President Pérez. “I’m thrilled that the community, businesses and other local groups have come together to ensure that Hispanic Heritage Month will be recognized and celebrated in style, and I urge those across the city to join in for what promises to be a fun-filled month.”
Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa said the heritage event this year is historic, for a few important reasons.
“For the first time in the history of the City of Milwaukee, a Latina or Latine woman serves as an Alderwoman on its Common Council and, just recently, the Common Council elected Alderman José G. Pérez to serve as its President, the very first Latino or Latine person to ever hold this prestigious position in our local government,” she said.
“These are great advancements for our community, but also tremendous responsibilities. It is important to continue to lift up the fastest growing constituency in both our city and state – our Latino/Latine community, which is why cultural celebrations during Hispanic Heritage Month like this one are vitally important,” Alderwoman Zamarripa said.
“I hope all people across Milwaukee will join us this week,” she said.
The event hosted at City Hall entitled Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation 2022 will feature guest speakers, performers, an art display, and food trucks outside City Hall on Market St. A short program will occur at noon in the City Hall rotunda. Media coverage is invited. The program at City Hall coincides with Mexican Independence Day, which is recognized annually on September 16.
