LANSING, Mich. (Sept. 14, 2023) — In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, members of the Michigan Legislative Latino Caucus (MLLC) Senators Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Twp.) and Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), along with State Representative Veronica Paiz (D-Harper Woods), commemorate the rich culture and histories of Latino Americans in Michigan and across the United States.
“Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month in the state of Michigan is about celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture and countless achievements of Michigan’s Hispanic and Latinx communities,” said Sen. Mary Cavanagh, chair of MLLC. “Hispanic Michiganders are a growing community, with 81 of 83 counties seeing a Hispanic population increase across the last decade, and their significance to our communities, economy, fabric and future of this state will only continue to grow as well.”
Observed annually from September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the rich culture and histories of Latino Americans in the United States — and incorporates celebrations of major holidays such as Independence Day celebrations for Mexico on September 16 and Chile on September 18.
“For me, this month is about celebrating the countless men and women who came before us and didn’t have the opportunities or representation we do,” said Sen. Camilleri, vice-chair of the caucus. “Until 1998, we didn’t have any Latino representation in the state legislature at all, and while we’ve made great strides since then, we still have a lot more work to do. I’m excited to keep building power in our community and promoting honest, hardworking representation and empowerment in the Michigan Legislature.
“Michigan thrives thanks to the contributions of residents of all backgrounds, creeds and cultures. While uplifting our vibrant Hispanic and Latino communities is a priority year-round, I’m excited for the spotlight on our histories — especially in Michigan — and cultures and traditions this month,” said Rep. Paiz, Latino Legislative Caucus Secretary and Treasurer. “Our state is stronger when we know more about and can better relate to each other.”
The Michigan Legislative Latino Caucus is a bicameral group of legislators dedicated to promoting legislative initiatives that reflect the betterment of Michigan’s Latino community — including economic development, healthcare, education, civic engagement and civil rights. The MLLC includes Michigan Legislators who identify as Latino and those who represent districts with Latino populations and have shown a commitment to supporting the issues and policies most important to Michigan Latinos.
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