Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, 2023, please join the City of Lake Oswego in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month! The 2023 theme for Hispanic Heritage Month is “Prosperity, Power and Progress” which recognizes the achievements of the Hispanic community in the economic and political industries.

Visit United States Census and National Today for more information on Hispanic Heritage Month! Continue reading for some interesting facts on Hispanic and Latin American community,

The Hispanic population of the United States is 63.7 million, making it the largest racial minority.
There are 13 states with one million or more Hispanic residents in 2022, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas and Washington.
14% of Oregon’s population is Hispanic and Latino, which makes it the fastest growing racial demographic in the state of Oregon.

History

Do you know the difference between Hispanic/Latino/e? Learn about various terms and their meaning.

Interested in learning more about Oregon’s history in relation to Latino communities? Check out this essay, "Latinos in Oregon" Oregon Encyclopedia

Celebrations and Activities

Mexico's Aztec Eagles: Heroes of World War II

Lake Oswego Public Library
Saturday, September 16, 2023, 2 to 3 p.m.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, join speaker Sig Unander for this illuminating presentation about the Aztec Eagle fighter pilots of World War II! The legendary Aztec Eagle fighter pilots were the only Mexican military unit to serve in combat outside of Mexico. This elite unit of volunteer aviators and support personnel helped American forces drive the Japanese from the Philippines during World War II, however, the Eagles’ exploits were largely forgotten after the war. Through the research of historians such as Sig Unander, their powerful story is coming to light again.

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's (in SPANISH)

Lake Oswego Public Library
Thursday, September 21, 2023, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Alzheimer’s Association presents a class on how Alzheimer's and other dementias cause memory, thinking, and behavior changes that interfere with daily living. Learn about common warning signs of Alzheimer's and what symptoms to look for in yourself and others, as well as tips to approach someone who is experiencing changes in their memory, the benefit of early detection and diagnosis, and more.

El Grito Community Festival

Hillsboro Shute Park
September 16, 2023, 2 to 7 p.m.
Join the City of Hillsboro and Centro Cultural to commemorate Mexico’s cry for independence and celebrate the rich culture of Latin America. This event will feature mariachi, ballet folklorico, vendors, a car show, Latin American cuisine and much more!

El Grito 2023 - Portland

The Moda Center
September 15 & 16, 2023
Join us for the most important holiday celebrated by the Hispanic community in Oregon! Entry is free for all and the celebration begins on Friday 15th and continues on Saturday 16th. El Grito Portland is a community-centered event where we highlight the traditions passed on from our ancestors and indigenous roots. We celebrate with our neighbors and provide a platform for Latinx-specific resources and Latinx small businesses to provide products and food dishes of the Americas. The entrance is completely free, and this year, we will continue to provide health screenings, vaccine drives, legal workshops, small business consulting resources and more to all who attend.

Fiesta Latina en el Parque

North Clackamas Park
Saturday, September 23, noon to 4 p.m.
Join us for a party in the park to celebrate Latino culture and heritage in North Clackamas! Come learn about cultural traditions through food, music, arts and crafts, and kids activities. This free, family-friendly community festival is open to all.

Nuestra Herencia

Three Weekends celebrating Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month presented by JuntosPDX

“Nuestra Arte” September 16, 3 to 7 p.m., T.E.A.M Center (115 SE 9th Ave. Portland)
“Cuentos de Triunfo” September 30, 3 to 7 p.m., T.E.A.M Center (115 SE 9th Ave. Portland)
“Baile en La Calle” October 14, 3 to 7 p.m.,Nico’s Cantina (4318 NE Cully Blvd. Portland)