As we close out Hispanic Heritage Month this week, we want to focus again on the amazing contributions of our Hispanic and Latino cultures. Latinas and Latinos have always held significant roles throughout our country’s history, dating all the way back to the American Revolution. Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it provides an opportunity to celebrate the integral part the Hispanic/Latino community has had in growing and strengthening our democracy.
Representation matters. Latinos and Latinas continue to shape our nation as business owners, activists, artists, public servants, and more. From serving in the U.S. military to being champions in the fight for civil rights, Latinas and Latinos remain strong leaders and changemakers.
It’s crucial to make sure that the contributions of the Latino community are showcased, and that Latinas and Latinos have a voice. According to 2020 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, one in every four children in the United States is Hispanic/Latino. the country continues to increase in diversity, it’s necessary for all citizens to learn more about American Latino experiences to recognize and value the many contributions Latinas and Latinos have made.
Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the unique voices and experiences of Hispanic/Latino Americans and recognize their history, journeys, and achievements. From entertainment and sports to business and science, Latinas and Latinos enrich our society.
As athletes, Latinas and Latinos have been game changers. For example, over the years, Latinas have also shaped baseball history, serving as players, broadcasters, and team owners. In the 1990s, Linda Alvarado purchased the Colorado Rockies and made history as the first woman to ever win a bid to buy a team. This purchase also resulted in her becoming the first Hispanic MLB team owner. The contributions of Latinas like Alvarado and others, such as baseball player Margaret “Marge” Villa and sportscaster Jessica Mendoza, have forever transformed the game of baseball. As of opening day in 2023, about 30 percent of Major League Baseball players are Hispanic/Latino. With the accomplishments of past players like Roberto Clemente and present ones such as Francisco Lindor and Javier Báez leading the way, the sport will continue to evolve.
As you celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, try cooking some traditional dishes to learn more about Hispanic cuisine and culture. Invite family and friends to join you as you explore the diverse flavors of Latino food with these recipes:
Latino food has had a strong presence and influence in the United States throughout our country’s history. From special events like Día de Muertos/Day of the Dead to quinceañera celebrations, Latino food traditions have long inspired American cuisine. With a rich blend of core ingredients like corn, meat, beans, and rice, the diverse flavors of traditional Latino food continue to be popular across the world.
These traditional foods include:
Tequeños – These Venezuelan fried cheese sticks make tasty appetizers or snacks.
Suspiro a la limeña – This caramel meringue pudding is a popular Peruvian dessert.
Hallaca – A popular holiday dish that consists of cornmeal dough stuffed with stewed meat and other ingredients, such as olives, raisins, and capers.
Arroz con pollo – This dish consists of variations that include seasoned chicken and rice.
Empanadas – These pastries can be stuffed with a variety of ingredients, including beef, chicken, cheese, and vegetables.
Pozole – Made from hominy with meat and seasonings, Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew.
Tostones – Tostones are sliced, unripe plantains that have been fried.
Milanesa – A thin meat cutlet that is breaded and fried.
Brigadeiros – This traditional Brazilian dessert consists of sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, chocolate, and butter.
Dulce de leche – Popular in desserts, dulce de leche is a caramel-like sauce made from milk and sugar.
Pabellón criollo – Recognized as the national dish of Venezuela, pabellón criollo is traditionally made with shredded beef, rice, beans, and “tajadas” – fried plantains.
Salvadoran Pupusas – This traditional dish is made of thick corn tortillas and stuffed with savory foods like cheese, pork, and beans.
Venezuelan Arepas – Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a staple in Venezuelan cuisine. Arepas are grilled corn cakes that are often stuffed with different fillings, such as cheese, meat, eggs, or beans. This versatile food is a great dish for any meal.
Argentinean Chimichurri – Add some authentic chimichurri to your next meal! Traditionally used on grilled meat, chimichurri is a versatile sauce consisting of ingredients like parsley, oregano, garlic, vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
We are fortunate to live in a city rich in Hispanic/Latinx culture. This month we showcased many people, places, and events surrounding Hispanic Heritage. However, we are so lucky we can embrace Hispanic/Latinx culture year round in Chicago. We hope that you take advantage of cultural diversity our Hispanic/Latinx community members and businesses have to offer!