September EDI Corner - Hispanic/Latinx Heritage MonthHispanic/Latinx Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, celebrates the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx (pronounced as “LAT-in-EX”) people. It begins September 15 to coincide with the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, with Mexico and Chile celebrating shortly thereafter. The observance recognizes the contributions of Latinxs from diverse backgrounds—Indigenous, Mestizo, Afro-Latinx, and others—who have been integral to the growth and development of the United States. Latinxs trace their origins to various regions, including Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spanish colonies. Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month honors the past and brings attention to current Latinx community issues. According to the US Census Bureau, the Hispanic/Latinx American population reached 63.7 million in 2022. Despite making up 20 percent of the US population (about one in every five people), only 6 percent of dentists are Latinx, highlighting a significant disparity in healthcare representation. The Latinx population faces distinct challenges in accessing dental care, including language barriers, transportation difficulties, low oral health literacy, and high costs. According to research from the Health Policy Institute, while cost-related barriers to dental care for Hispanic children have decreased from 11 percent to 6 percent, these barriers have worsened for Hispanic adults and seniors. Hispanic seniors face the highest financial obstacles to dental care. Additionally, Latinx adults are the least likely of any racial/ethnic group to seek dental services. A combination of factors—including cultural norms, language barriers, restrictive immigration policies, anti-immigrant sentiments, and racism—along with broader social determinants of health, limits Latinx access to oral health care. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive solutions to improve equity in dental care access for the Latinx community. Below are ways to celebrate and honor National Hispanic/Latinx American Heritage Month, along with helpful resources and materials for deeper engagement: Addressing the Oral Health Needs of Hispanics in the U.S: addresses the specific oral health disparities faced by Latinx population. Hispanic Heritage Month Toolkit: promotes and celebrates the month with educational resources, activities, and outreach materials. Hispanic Heritage Month- Toolkit for children: fun and educational ways to introduce young learners to Hispanic/Latinx culture, history, and achievements. "Fronteras" Anthology: examines the forgotten history of state-sanctioned attacks against ethnic Mexicans along the southern border: examines the often-overlooked history of state-sanctioned violence and oppression against ethnic Mexicans along the southern border, and sheds light on a critical chapter of Hispanic-American history, encouraging reflection and dialogue. Pew Research Center: Key facts about U.S. Latinxs for National Hispanic Heritage Month: shows research/statistics, including demographic trends, socioeconomic status, and societal contributions. Books to Explore During Hispanic Heritage Month:
|