Orange County Hispanic Heritage Month | A Celebration Showcasing a Vibrant Hispanic Community
National Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration of the history and culture of U.S. Hispanic communities. The event, which runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, recognizes the contributions, achievements and influence of all those who trace their heritage to Mexico, South America, Central America and the Caribbean. Orange County is marking these achievements locally with a month full of special events and festivities themed around “Riqueza Latina,” which means Latin Richness.
On Sept. 12, Mayor Demings, along with the Orange County Board of County Commissioners, issued a proclamation that recognized the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture and economy of Orange County and the United States. During a breakfast event, heartfelt thanks went out to Duke Energy, the 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month main sponsor, for its generous contribution and commitment to diversity and cultural awareness.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich and diverse Hispanic culture,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings. “I encourage everyone to join us at one of the many events held throughout September and October, as they offer an excellent opportunity to learn about Hispanic culture and celebrate our community’s diversity.”
An Artist Meet Up and Mingle reception was hosted by Mathers Social Gathering on Sept. 20 to celebrate visual and literary artists who will showcase their work inside the Orange County Administration Center from Oct. 2 through 31. The exhibit, which is free and open to the public, also showcases traditional clothing from different countries.
Rollins College will host the Hispanic Youth Leadership Awards – Latino Youth: Driving Prosperity Power, and Progress in America Ceremony at the Rice Family Pavilion on Oct. 3. The ceremony recognizes high-achieving Hispanic youth who excel in academia, sports, social advocacy and have made contributions to the community.
The Hispanic Heritage Month celebration will conclude with the presentation of Riqueza Latina: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Prosperity on Oct. 11. The reception, hosted by the Winter Park Health Foundation at the Center for Health and Wellbeing, will feature live music, dance performances and traditional food and clothing from various Hispanic countries.
“We have a large Hispanic community in Central Florida, so it’s important to celebrate its many contributions,” said Yetzenia Negron, Orange County Events and Special Programs Manager. “This month highlights our culture and traditions, and it helps keep them alive for the entire community to benefit and enjoy.”
For more information on Hispanic Heritage Month events, go to Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County Facebook Page.