Annual Reception Honors the Hispanic Community’s Lasting Impact on Westchester County
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and the County’s Hispanic Advisory Board welcomed community members to the County’s annual Hispanic Heritage Month Reception, celebrating the traditions and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities throughout Westchester County.
Held as part of Hispanic Heritage Month, the reception recognized the individuals, families and organizations that help strengthen Westchester every day through their leadership, entrepreneurship, public service, education, arts and civic engagement. The celebration also promoted the County’s promise to fostering a welcoming community where every resident feels valued and respected.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of the Hispanic and Latino community, but it’s also an opportunity to recognize the tremendous impact this community has on Westchester County every day. While the national conversation too often focuses on what divides us, here in Westchester we know our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.”
Deputy County Executive Joan McDonald said: “This celebration is about recognizing the people who contribute so much to the fabric of Westchester County. Hispanic Heritage Month gives us the chance to reflect on the many ways Hispanic and Latino residents strengthen our communities while also promoting our commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”
Director of Minority and Women-Owned Business Development Martha Lopez said: “The Hispanic community has helped shape Westchester through generations of hard work, entrepreneurship and civic leadership. This reception is an opportunity to celebrate those contributions while inspiring future generations to continue building a stronger County.”
Hispanic Advisory Board Chair Dr. Carmen Martínez-López said: “Hispanic Heritage Month reminds us that our stories and traditions are an important part of Westchester’s identity. This celebration honors those who came before us and encourages young people to take pride in their heritage while helping shape the future of our communities.”
The reception featured music and cuisine that reflected the diversity of Hispanic and Latino cultures represented throughout Westchester County. Community members also gathered to recognize local leaders whose service and dedication have strengthened neighborhoods across the County.
Observed each year from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the contributions of Americans whose ancestry traces to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Through celebrations like this reception, Westchester County continues to recognize the communities whose traditions and talent help make the County one of the most diverse places to live, work and raise a family.
