By, Ruel Nolledo | Freelance Writer
Septemeber 15, 2025
September 15 marks the beginning of Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month, a monthlong celebration of the vibrant histories, cultures and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities indelibly woven into the American tapestry. It’s also a time to move beyond reflection and intently contemplate the obstacles, challenges and deferred dreams — both past and present — experienced by many Hispanic and Latino families today.
It’s impossible to imagine the United States today without the ineradicable influence of Hispanic and Latino communities hailing from more than 20 countries — Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and more — and their diverse traditions and cultures, both unique and shared. Today, we sway to the rhythm of the cumbia, move to the infectious beat of reggaeton, and sing along to a wistful, heartbreaking ranchera. At mealtime, we can enjoy ceviche, empanadas, tres leches, and a host of other fare. And come Día de los Muertos in the fall, we nibble on colorful sugar skull confections and marvel at ofrendas — altars of marigolds, papel picado, candles, and photos of lost ones.
Just as important to the U.S., Latino and Hispanic Americans represent the fastest-growing contributor to the nation’s economy today. According to a 2025 brief, the total economic output of Latinos in the U.S. — what they produce, sell, buy and contribute to the workforce and the economy — was a staggering $4.1 trillion in 2023. That’s a substantial 15% of the U.S. GDP. And with an annual growth rate of 7.2%, the Latino economy is expanding far faster than the national average, making Latinos a crucial driver of our economy.
Despite their importance to our shared future, Hispanic and Latino communities have become the prime target of immigration enforcement in 2025Large scale raids in Los Angeles are taking place in predominantly Latino neighborhoods. Detainments, deportations by ICE officials — regardless of citizenship status — are taking place based on the location, job and physical appearance of individuals.
“Fear has no place in early childhood,” said First 5 LA President & CEO Karla Pleitéz Howell in a statement made earlier this year. “Deportation is not a child welfare strategy. And no parent should fear that dropping their toddler off at child care or accessing food assistance and other essential services could make them a target.”
First 5 LA remains committed to ensuring all children are born healthy and thrive in a nurturing, safe and loving community. We join in community to honor Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month and as we work to ensure the safety and well-being of Los Angeles County’s Hispanic and Latino families — a vital part of our past, present and future.
Juntos somos más fuertes. Together, we are stronger.
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- Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month: Sept. 13, 10 a.m. – Noon
- Hispanic Heritage Month: Axtec Codex: Sept. 13, 2 – 3 p.m.
- Alebrejies: Mexican Folk Art: Sept. 18, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
- DIY Piñata: Sept. 18
- Baila Baila Bilingual Concert: Sept. 18, 4:30 – 5:15 p.m.
- Family ¡Lotería! and Craft: Sept. 25, 4 – 5 p.m.
- Paper Flowers: Sept. 17, 4 – 5 p.m.
- Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: “Baila Baila” Bilingual Show: Sept. 30, 4 – 4:45pm
- Fiestas Patrias Family Day: Sept. 14, Noon
- Discovering El Salvador Through Arts & Culture: Sept. 15, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
- 5th Annual Oaxaca by the Sea: Sept. 28, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- East Los Angeles Mexican Independence Day Parade & Festival: Sept. 14/25, 10 a.m.
- El Grito Festival: Sept. 14, Noon – 6 p.m.
