SALSA, the Strategic Alliance for Leadership and Social Action, is seeking sponsors to support its celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month at the Depot on Saturday, September 20. The evening celebration will include arts and crafts, music, food, dancing, and games for the entire family.

SALSA President, Giovanna Garcia, said “This year we are celebrating Hispanic contributions to America. Hispanics are driving the American economy, evidenced by its ranking as the 3rd fastest growing GDP in the world, behind only China and India. If U.S. Hispanics were a nation with its $3.2 trillion GDP, Hispanics would be the 8th largest economic power in the world.

Because Hispanics are the youngest ethnic/racial group in America, 70% of America’s future labor force will be Hispanic. Almost half of all homes sold in America are purchased by Hispanics, as are most automobiles. Most businesses in America depend on and thrive because of Hispanic purchasing power.

Two-thirds of all Hispanics in America are of Mexican origin and Mexico in America’s 2nd largest trading partner. Every billion dollars in trade with Mexico accounts for 20,000 American jobs. Mexican Americans are proud of who we are and what we bring to the table and proud of the many contributions we make every day to this city, state and nation.”

Hispanic Heritage Month is not just a celebration by and for Hispanics. Hispanic heritage should be celebrated by all Americans, especially the business community that benefits and is able to survive and thrive because of Hispanic consumers and financial institutions where Hispanics bank.

Every dollar SALSA is able to raise, after expenses, goes for scholarships awarded in May to local Hispanic and non-Hispanic graduates and those in the immediate vicinity. Since 2021, SALSA has awarded $55,000 in scholarships. Local businesses, financial institutions and philanthropists are invited to join in celebrating the Hispanic engine driving America’s economic power in the world.