There is no doubt that the influence of Latinos in every aspect of our economy
and life is powerful. In Idaho, Latinos are rarely at the table to ensure that our voices our
heard. The Idaho Democratic Latino Caucus has made it our goal to make our voices heard, and see
that the best interests of the Latino Community are served.
As Hispanic Heritage month approaches, we want to share important
facts that you might not know about Latinos.
When is Hispanic Heritage Month?
Hispanic Heritage Month is September
15-October 15th. It kicks off on a day when five Latino countries celebrate their
independence days: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Gautemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Three other countries
also celebrate their Independence during Hispanic Heritage Month: Mexico, Chile, and Belize.
When and Why did HH Month start?
Hispanic Heritage Month started
in 1968 as one week of observance, and was expanded to one month of observance in 1988. Its
purpose is to "celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American Citizens whose ancestors
came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America." (hispanicheritagemonth.gov/about)
Latino
Facts
- 21
The number of states in which Hispanics are the largest minority group. These states are
Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts,
Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah, Washington
and Wyoming.
- 8.4%
The percentage of voters in the 2012 presidential election who
were Hispanic. Hispanics comprised 7
percent of voters in 2010.
Source: News Release: Census Bureau Reports Hispanic Voter Turnout
Reaches RecordHigh forCongressional Election
- 2.3 million
- 1.2 million
If you want some more information on Idaho Latinos, the Idaho
Commission on Hispanic Affairs has great information on their website. Take a look at their Snapshot of the Idaho Latino Community.
If
you're interested in more information on the Idaho Democratic Latino Caucus, please feel free
to like our Facebook
Page. We have formed to engage Latino voters in the political process and to encourage Latinos
to run for office. We will work hard to help them win. We are a new organization, but our membership
is growing rapidly. You are welcome to join us as we pursue these important goals. We cannot
succeed without your help. Please learn about us and consider ways that you can help us-like volunteering
to attend or organize events, attending important community functions, writing letters
to the editor, becoming a candidate for office, or donating money to help recruit and elect Latino
candidates.
Together, we will create stronger communities and greater
opportunities for all of Idaho's children.
Until next time,
Idaho Democratic Latino Caucus
Websites with more Info
Like on Facebook
