Minnesota Hispanic Heritage Month unites the state in celebrating Latino culture and contributions. The annual observance runs from September 15 to October 15, but many leaders say the community’s accomplishments deserve recognition every day. Hispanic Heritage Month was established in 1988 to honor the independence of Latin American countries. Hispanic refers to people from Spanish-speaking nations, while Latino describes those born in or descended from Latin America. This year, the second annual Minneapolis Latino Business Week kicked off with events highlighting Latino arts, food, and businesses. The Center for Performing Arts hosted Latinidad en Acción: Arts & Business, offering free public access to performances and exhibits. Addy Gonzalez, executive director of the Minneapolis Arts and Cultural Affairs Department, said these events amplify and uplift Latino communities. She stressed the economic power of Latinos, estimating their collective output at $4 trillion. “If we invest and collaborate, we can accomplish a lot,” Gonzalez said. Gonzalez immigrated to the U.S. at age 10 from southeast Los Angeles. She said she found a welcoming and artistic Latino community after moving to Minnesota. The events at CFPA aim to help people connect, learn, and support each other. A networking mixer and community forum will conclude the week, featuring keynote speakers nominated by the Latino community. Among them is Laura (Pacha) Galaviz, a Xicana cyclist and entrepreneur from South Minneapolis. Galaviz founded Bici Xicas in 2016, creating a safe space for femmes, queer people, and people of color to cycle and learn bike mechanics. She grew up biking near Latino-owned businesses and admired the community’s creativity and resilience. “We’re a community of crafting,” Galaviz said. “That includes food, textiles, clothes, bikes, and more.” Today, Bici Xicas serves as both a Latino hub and a bridge to other cultures, offering bilingual, pay-what-you-can repair services and classes. Galaviz said Hispanic Heritage Month enhances opportunities to explore these cultural spaces. “It’s a chance to connect with people and see what the community is working on,” she added. Mexican Independence Day parades also took place, featuring live music, street food, and soccer matches. The CINE LATINO Film Festival from October 8–12 showcased Spanish- and Portuguese-language films. Rodolfo Gutierrez, executive director of HACER, a Latino research and advocacy organization, immigrated from Mexico City 35 years ago. He attends events throughout the month and describes the celebrations as powerful and pride-filled. “Latinos are shaping Minnesota’s cultural and economic landscape,” Gutierrez said. He noted how Latino food and businesses have grown since his arrival, with the state now home to nearly 400,000 Hispanic residents. Latino presence in Minnesota dates back to 1886, when musician Luis Garzón became the state’s first permanent Latino resident. He later opened a Mexican grocery store and formed the state’s first Mexican-American orchestra. Since then, Minnesota’s Latino community has flourished and diversified. Gutierrez emphasized correcting common misconceptions, including the ideas that all Latinos are from Mexico or undocumented. According to the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, about four in five Hispanic Minnesotans are U.S. citizens. Many non-citizens hold valid work visas. “Approach the Latino community without prejudice,” Gutierrez said. “You can learn more and support these communities.” Gonzalez said Hispanic Heritage Month is also about celebrating the community’s spirit. “I love our joy, our food, our music, and our heritage,” she said. “We bring so much color and happiness to the world.” Throughout Minnesota, Hispanic Heritage Month is marked by cultural events, community gatherings, and celebrations of Latino contributions to the state’s economy and culture.