EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Hispanic Heritage Month activities kicked off at an opening event here Sept. 15. This year’s theme is “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power and Progress in America.”
National Hispanic Heritage Month runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. The Department of Defense celebrates the countless contributions of more than 60 million Hispanic Americans, Latinos, Latinas, and Latinx-identifying people to U.S. culture and society. Hispanic Americans are the largest minority group in the United States today, and generations of Hispanic Americans have consistently helped make the U.S. strong and prosperous.
Tech. Sgt. Julio Burgos-Carrascal, 96th Force Support Squadron, delivered opening remarks.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a reminder to embrace diversity year-round,” he said. “Let's appreciate and learn from each other's cultures, which make our society richer and more inclusive.”
Following the speech, the attendees enjoyed Latin cuisine.
The month’s events include bilingual book readings to Child Development Center children, dance classes, a Hispanic-themed movie night and a 1.5-mile run. Anyone with base access can participate.
Col. Tom Tauer, 96th Test Wing deputy commander, encouraged the base community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
“Please join me in celebrating the rich and diverse cultures, contributions, and heritage of our Team Eglin Hispanic community,” he said. “I’m proud to be a part of a team where we can recognize the things that make us culturally unique, while not losing sight of our shared identity as Airmen. Thank you to the planning committee for their work putting these events together.”
For more information, call 882-1272.