California Latino Heritage Month

Latino Heritage Month 2023 - Header Image

The California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), and its departments, conservancies and partners, invite you to celebrate this year’s Latino Heritage Month by participating in the many events being held virtually and in-person throughout the state from September 15 through October 15 (see list below).   

Latinos are California’s largest ethnic group, with diverse roots throughout the Americas, indigenous communities of Latin America and Africa, and beyond. Generations of Latinos have helped shape our society, economy, culture and values since our state’s beginning. The leadership, service, and vision of Latinos continues to enrich all facets of American life.  

CNRA’s theme for this year, “Esperanza en Acción: Honoring Roots, Defending Nature,” celebrates the deep connections between cultural heritage, community resilience and environmental stewardship. It recognizes the strength and hope rooted in Latino traditions and honors the ongoing efforts to protect California’s natural and cultural resources. 

Engage with us. Be inspired. Spend time outdoors. Commemorate Latino Heritage Month.  


Secretary Speaker Series: Honoring Latino Heritage Through Nature, Outdoor Recreation, and Community Engagement 

  • Description: Join us for a powerful webinar celebrating the leadership, stories, and contributions of Latino trailblazers and visionaries who are shaping meaningful connections to nature and the outdoors. At a time when federal immigration actions have left many Latinos feeling fearful and uncertain about enjoying outdoor spaces, this conversation offers hope, resilience, and inspiration. We will uplift leaders who are honoring heritage, breaking down barriers, and creating new opportunities for nature, recreation, and community connection. Together, we will explore how Latino heritage is deeply and beautifully tied to land, and how these traditions continue to guide us toward a healthier, more inclusive future outdoors. 
  • Time: Noon to 1 p.m. 
  • Location:Virtual Event
  • Registration:  https://ca-water-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AKGvILvkSa6xigaI3sVXkA

Vamos al Salton Sea! Celebrando Cultura y Naturaleza

  • Description: The California Salton Sea Management Program team is excited to invite you to explore an active restoration project at the Salton Sea. Join us to tour the Species Conservation Habitat (SCH) Project, at the south end of the Sea, to learn more details about the project, view the wildlife and habitat features, get more insight about the project infrastructure, and hear more about the future project expansion.
  • Time: 8:30 am to 11:00 am 
  • Location: Salton Sea. Species Conservation Habitat (SCH) Project, 6098 Poe Rd., Brawley, CA, 92227  
  • Registration: Will be updated  

Art Moving Forward: Heritage, Hues, and Heart

  • Description:  The Salton Sea Management Program is partnering with Imperial Valley Equity and Justice Coalition to host a family‑friendly arts gathering. Immerse yourself in colorful exhibits by talented local artists from the Imperial Valley. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and celebrate this region’s artistry!  
  • Time: 6:00 to 8:00 pm
  • Location: 230 Blair St, Calexico, CA 

Thursday, October 9:Movie Night featuring Coco

  • Description: Join us under the stars for a magical outdoor screening of the Academy Award winning animated feature Coco about the celebration of family, music and memory. Downtown Sacramento Partnership organizes Movies Under the Stars series at Old Sacramento State Historic Park.
  • Time: Check in at 6:00 p.m. and movie starts at 7:00 p.m.
  • Location: Old Sacramento State Historic Park 1000 Front Street, Sacramento CA 95814
  • Cost:  General seating is $10, preferred seating is $25 and luxury seating is $35.
  • For Tickets and More Information: https://www.downtownsac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/MUTS-FAQS.pdf

 

Salsa Smackdown: A Flavorful Fiesta at Work!

  • Description: This is a salsa competition and potluck open to state staff across CNRA. Get ready to turn up the heat and stir up some friendly competition at our first-ever Salsa Smackdown — a flavorful celebration of creativity, community, and culinary flair! Whether you're a master of mild or a champion of the chili pepper, we want YOU to bring your best homemade dip to the table.  In addition to salsa, you may also contribute a potluck item to share. Participants can compete in one (or more!) of the following four delicious salsa categories :
      1. Crema-Based Salsa – Smooth, tangy, and rich 
      2. Fruit-Based Salsa – Sweet meets heat in these refreshing blends 
      3. Tomato-Based Pico de Gallo – The classic, chunky, and fresh favorite 
      4. Green Salsa Verde – Bright, zesty, and full of verde flavor 
  • Time: Noon to 1:00 pm 
  • Location: 715 P Street, 20th Floor Cafe, Sacramento
  • Registration: https://forms.office.com/g/9KXH0kRM4A

     

    Please RSVP by Friday, October 10.

California Latino Heritage Month Logo Image

       

ABOUT LATINO HERITAGE MONTH

September 15 to October 15 is Latino Heritage Month, which honors, remembers and celebrates the contributions of Latinos in California. At 15.6 million, Latino Californians are the state’s largest ethnic group with roots that can be traced across the Americas, Indigenous communities of Latin American and Africa, and beyond.

Latino Heritage Month began 55 years ago in 1968. September 15 is a significant date because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days on September 16 and 18, and Dia de la Raza is on October 12.

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