By: Ashmar Mandou
Despite the recent challenges and rising pressures affecting the Latino and immigrant communities, leaders across Cook County are coming together to remind everyone of the resilience, pride, and the importance of celebrating one’s heritage especially as we our days away from Mexican Independence Day and Hispanic Heritage Month.
“The Mexican community has made profound and enduring contributions to culture, art, cuisine, labor, and social movements across the Americas. From vibrant traditions like Día de los Muertos to the voices of Mexican artists, like our late music icons, Juan Gabriel, Vicente Fernandez, and many more, activists, and innovators, this community continues to enrich society with resilience, creativity, and a deep sense of heritage.” -Maria A. Punzo-Arias Town Clerk
“Cook County’s connection to the Mexican community only continues to grow. This connection is a celebration of our lives and culture throughout our history. It is a promise to continue to honor the contributions of the Mexican community in our county and county today, and in the future. From the food, music and parades to the countless businesses driving our county forward, the Mexican American community shines brightly for all to see. I am proud to be a member of that community, today and every day.” -Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar
“Americans love our delicious Mexican food because it is affordable and fast. They love their trips to the beautiful beaches of Cancun because it is affordable and convenient. And they love us as workers because we are cheap and hard-working. And so, our nation has been socialized to undervalue Mexicans as a people and all that our culture represents. Today more than ever, it is vital that our nation recognizes the importance and vitality of Mexican culture and the indelible impact we’ve made within this country. Now is the time for our allies to step up and support us like never before. Your voices and presence at our Mexican Independence Day celebrations will send a message that, in fact, we do have immense value, and we are worth celebrating.”- President and CEO of the National Museum of Mexican Art José Ochoa
“I am a proud American and the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. My parents taught me the value of a hard work ethic, love for community and love for family. Many of us know what it’s like to come from humble beginnings and I’ve seen firsthand the amazing contributions immigrants have made to our city and state, both from a cultural and economic perspective. No matter what country our ancestors may have come from, it’s that sense of culture, community, hard work ethic and family commitment that unites us and makes America the best country in the world. We embrace our culture even as we look ahead to the future. Now more than ever we must support one another at work, at home and in our communities.” -Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza
