Hispanics make large impact

HISPANIC HERITAGE Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) is the one moment in the year that undeniably belongs to us — Hispanics, Latino/as, Latinx — as a unified community. Hispanics in the U.S. represent approximately 61 million people or 18.1% of the population, one-third of whom are younger than 18 years old. By 2050, one quarter of the population will be Hispanic. New Mexico is the highest Hispanic state in the country, with 47.7% of respondents to the 2020 census identifying as Hispanic.

Hispanic contributions are essential and have been consistent throughout the history of America. After Native Americans, Hispanics are the second oldest ethnic group in the United States, active and contributing to the country’s growth and developments since the 16th century in everything from sports, culture, retail, media, entertainment, agriculture and more.

Despite all this progress and active development, the community has been and continues to be generally misrepresented, misperceived and undervalued. Hispanics are hard workers, job-makers and entrepreneurs of the country, yet these achievements and development drivers are often invisible, not only externally, but also within the community. Seventyseven percent of Hispanics are not aware of their own contributions to the U.S.

Historically, Hispanics have faced enormous challenges including access to health and education, economic disparity, discrimination socially and in the workplace, and much more. During COVID-19, these gaps became wider as the community was disproportionately affected by the impact of the pandemic. How can we recover from these disparities and change the narrative for Hispanics? Unification is key.

It is essential for everyone to step forward and speak up. Not only about the power of Hispanics, but also about the need to unify. Despite challenges, obstacles and stereotypes, Hispanics are rising above. America is made of stars and Hispanics are one of them. Together we shine.

JOSHUA MARTINEZ Albuquerque