It's that time of year again, folks. National Hispanic Heritage Month has rolled around, and from now until October 15th, it's all eyes on the vibrant and profound influence that Hispanic Americans have imprinted on this country. According to the Utah Attorney General's Office, we're on a month-long journey to honor "Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together," an appropriate theme given the indelible mark that the Hispanic community has left on America's cultural, economic, and social tapestry.

Here in Utah, where Hispanics represent nearly 16% of the population, the contributions are both visible and impactful. It's a demographic shift that ought not to be understated, Latinos are, after all, Utah’s second-largest racial, and ethnic group. This month is a reminder, and certainly an opportunity for the rest of us to recognize the myriad of ways they foster diversity and inclusion throughout the Beehive State. The culinary scene, arts & culture, small businesses, take your pick, Hispanic Americans are there, enriching it all.

Getting into the festive spirit, a variety of events are set to unfold across the state, each offering a different window into the traditions, stories, and achievements of the Hispanic community. And let's be clear, these celebrations are more than just colorful escapades; they serve as critical platforms for education, understanding, and a shared appreciation for a group that has been influencing and shaping the United States since, well, before it was the United States.