Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Kansas City Embraces Culture and Community

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Kansas City

As we bask in the second week of Hispanic Heritage Month, Kansas City is buzzing with excitement and celebration! This year, the KC Fiesta Hispana delighted attendees with its 43rd annual celebration, honoring the vibrant and diverse Latino community through a delightful blend of food, music, games, and local vendors.

Throughout the city, various organizations are highlighting the incredible contributions of the Latino community. For instance, the Kansas City Royals chose to honor Octavio “Chato” Villalobos by dedicating the Buck O’Neal Legacy Seat to him in recognition of his outstanding service as a police officer. Similarly, the Kansas City Chiefs marked the occasion by featuring Cinthia Yepez and Elizabeth “Liz” Torok as their first pass honorees during the recent game against the Bengals.

Understanding the Significance of the Month

You might be wondering why we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. This special window aligns with Independence Day festivities in many Latin American nations. As someone born in Honduras and raised in the Kansas City area, this time holds immense significance for me. It provides a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the rich culture and history of our Latinx community, fostering a sense of belonging and pride, especially for those of us who are far from our native lands.

The Pew Research Center has shared some compelling statistics that reflect our growing importance in the broader American society. By November 2024, it is estimated that Latinos will make up a remarkable 14.7% of eligible voters. This increase not only highlights our expanding influence but also helps combat the stereotypes that have often overshadowed our community.

Recent Milestones

Last year’s local elections were historic, with the election of two Latinos, Crispin Rea and Jonathan Duncan, to Kansas City’s city council, breaking a 30-year gap of Latino representation. I was also honored to be elected as a write-in candidate for the Kansas City Public School Board, where I strive to be a voice for both the Latinx and LGBTQIA+ communities.

The advancement of our community heavily relies on access to quality K-12 and postsecondary education. Organizations like the Hispanic Development Fund (HDF) play a crucial role in providing support for academic and professional growth. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, HDF focuses on improving the quality of life for underserved Latino families in Greater Kansas City, delivering scholarships, grants, and invaluable college guidance.

Making a Difference Together

One initiative making waves this month is the Cambio Para Cambio (Change for Change) campaign. As the Community Impact Officer for HDF, I am thrilled to support this fundraising initiative aimed at enhancing our community’s philanthropic potential. Every contribution received this month is matched by private donors committed to our cause.

The community’s efforts to raise funds are exciting, ranging from tamale and aguas frescas sales to various activities put forth by both students and local professionals. If you’re interested in seeing the fundraising activities we’ve organized, I encourage you to check out our social media platforms: X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook, or Instagram at @hdfkc.

Honoring Our Roots

Hispanic Heritage Month is more than just celebrations; it’s a time to uplift and embrace our identities, our stories, and our impactful roles in various sectors including government, philanthropy, and arts. Figures such as Sylvia Mendez, who fought for educational equality, and Dr. Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina in space, inspire us all. Let’s also pay homage to activists like Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez, whose efforts in social justice continue to motivate movements today.

Kansas City is alive with the spirit of the Latinx community this month. Let’s celebrate together, embrace our stories, and uplift one another as we continue to build a better future for our community!