On the recordSeptember 29, 2022
as we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, we join together to acknowledge and express our appreciation for Hispanic communities across America and their innumerable gifts to our diverse Nation. Hispanic individuals have been critical in making this country a more inclusive and pluralistic union. In Maryland, Hispanics are the second-largest minority group, comprising more than 12 percent of our population, according to the 2020 Census. Hispanics in every corner of our State continue to engage in and strengthen our economy, educational and cultural institutions, and government. National Hispanic Heritage Month, first established in 1968, recognizes these achievements while encouraging the pursuit of new ones. This year, we particularly recognize the sacrifices made by Hispanic educators, essential workers, and healthcare professionals during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. We also honor those Hispanic veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and honorably protected the values and ideals that we hold so dear. While acknowledging Hispanic contributions to American history, culture, and identity, we also pledge to combat xenophobia and ignorance in all its manifestations. We support Hispanics as they seek fair access to equitable healthcare, affordable education and housing, and equal representation and in the private and public sectors.…





