In a vibrant celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Westchester County Executive George Latimer gathered local leaders, residents, and organizations to recognize the significant contributions of the Hispanic community to the cultural, economic, and social landscape of Westchester County.

This event highlighted the county’s dedication to diversity and inclusion, fostering a sense of unity among its diverse populations.

“This annual reception is not just a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, but a reminder of our Hispanic community’s vital role in shaping Westchester’s future,” Latimer emphasized during the event.

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“The Hispanic community here has contributed significantly to the cultural richness, economic vitality, and diversity in our County. My administration has worked tirelessly to ensure that our programs and services reflect the needs and aspirations of our Hispanic residents, and we remain committed to fostering a welcoming environment for all.”

Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins also spoke passionately about the importance of the month, stating, “Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a time to celebrate the cultural richness of the Hispanic community but also to reaffirm our commitment to creating more opportunities for all Westchester residents. The County is proud to work with the Hispanic community to advance inclusivity and equity across the County.”

Martha Lopez, the Director of Minority and Women-Owned Business Development, added her perspective, saying, “This event is a reflection of Westchester County’s deep appreciation for the Hispanic community and all it has contributed to our County’s growth. The County has remained dedicated to celebrating those contributions and continuing to provide opportunities that allow all our communities to flourish.”

Dr. Carmen Martínez-López, Chair of the Hispanic Advisory Board, echoed these sentiments, stating, “This reception is a celebration of our rich heritage, our culture, and the growing impact of our community in Westchester. I’m proud of the County’s ongoing support, from events like these to initiatives like the first comprehensive needs assessment project in over two decades for the Hispanic population in Westchester County, which helps ensure our voices are heard and our needs are addressed.”

Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15, honors the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. In alignment with these celebrations, Westchester County is actively conducting a comprehensive survey in partnership with Pace University. This survey aims to collect vital data to better understand and address the evolving needs of Hispanic and Latino residents in key areas such as education, healthcare, employment, housing, and social services.

Through this initiative and ongoing engagement, Westchester County continues to reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity and support for all its residents, ensuring that the voices and needs of the Hispanic community are recognized and prioritized.