California Latino Heritage Month

Latino Heritage Month 2023 - Header Image 

The California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) and its supporting departments, invite you to celebrate California Latino Heritage Month – Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger California. Through virtual and in-person events, CNRA departments, commissions, and conservancies will be honoring Latino leaders in the environmental field who work to protect the environment for current and future generations and encourage others to become environmental stewards.

Fishing in the City LA Event

  • Description: Come and join the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Los Angeles County Parks for a full day of fishing, food and fun! Enjoy a great day of fishing with prizes, breakfast and giveaways. Limited fishing poles available, no license required.
  • Time: 7 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
  • For more information: (562) 902-5645

 

Fiestas Patrias Celebration

  • Description: While each community commemorates Fiestas Patrias differently, here in Old Town we’re celebrating by inviting the public to join us in our tradition of making Cascarones and Paper Flowers while listening to live music. 
  • Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
  • Where: Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
  • This event is free and open to the public.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Latino Heritage Month Panel Discussion 

  • Description: Join CDFW in celebrating Latino Heritage Month with a dynamic discussion with Latino Outoors Regional Program Coordinator and biologist Liz Lopez and CDFW Community Outreach Specialist Richard Munoz. They will share what it means to embody Latinidad, foster an inclusive culture, and uplift shared differences in Latino/a/e expression in the outdoors.
  • When: 3 p.m.-4 p.m.

Elkhorn Slough Open House 

  • Description: Join the fun at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve's annual Open House! A fun filled, family friendly community event.
  • When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Where: Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve 1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville (95076)  
  • Register: Please register here

Documentary Film: The Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, the California Natural Resources Agency and California State Parks hosts a screening and panel discussion of the documentary film “La Recua: Mule Pack Train. Free admission.

  • Description: In celebration of Latino Heritage Month, please join us for a California Natural Resources Agency screening and panel discussion of the documentary “La Recua: Mule Pack Train.” This captivating film follows Darío Higuera Meza, a traditional saddle maker in Baja California Sur, Mexico, as he travels 200 miles by mule pack train along Old Camino Real. The documentary thoughtfully explores the rich history of mule pack trains and their role in developing the ranching culture that has supported the Lower California peninsula for centuries. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by Secretary Wade Crowfoot.

Two hikes available in LA and the Salton Sea!

Let's walk to celebrate Latino Heritage Month at the Salton Sea! 

  • Description: This community-oriented get together invites Californians to walk the shoreline of the Salton Sea while engaging in conversations about its history, wildlife, and enjoy baked pan dulce and freshly brewed cafesito from local vendors. 
  • When: 7 a.m.-11 a.m. 

 

Caminata en Elysian Park

  • Description: Join us to celebrate Latino Heritage Month at Elysian park. We will hike Portola Trial and to learn about the Chavez Ravine community. We will start at Solano Canyon Dr. parking lot, off Academy Rd. and hike two miles, stopping at a lookout to talk about the history of Chavez Ravine, the multi-cultural aspect of Latinidad, then the Chavez Ravine Arboretum, and back to the lot. 
  • When: 10 a.m.
  • Where: Elysian Park 929 Academy Road, Los Angeles (90012)
  • RSVP: Stay tuned for details.

Secretary Speaker Series--Nurturing Heritage, Cultivating Empowerment and Conservation - Embracing Latino Roots for a Stronger Future

  • Description: Join us for an inspiring webinar as we celebrate Latino Heritage Month by delving into the rich tapestry of stories, experiences, and triumphs that shape the Latino community. Through powerful narratives and shared journeys, we will explore the essence of heritage, resilience, and growth, while also highlighting the deep connection between Latino heritage and the environment. We will also discuss how embracing your roots can empower you to navigate life's challenges and inspire positive change within your community. Don't miss this opportunity to hear personal stories and insights for embracing heritage while actively participating in conservation efforts and enjoying the beauty of outdoor spaces.
  • Time: Noon -1 p.m.

Career Pathways

  • Description: Panelists representing departments from across the California Natural Resources Agency will provide insight on how they got their start, overcoming barriers and what they envision for the future for Latinos in careers in resources. Join us to learn first-hand the kinds of meaningful careers that are impactful available in natural resources! You will also learn about resources available to you to help you get started. 
  • Time: 11 a.m.-Noon

Castro Adobe Open House: Vaqueros, Bulls, and Bearrs! Oh my!

  • Description: State Parks invites you to tour Castro Adobe. This 90-minute tour is led by docents who will share the history of the Castro family, and the two-story adobe hacienda built over 170 years ago. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon touring Rancho San Andres Castro State Historic Property and learn about the Vaquero culture and living during the Mexican Rancho Period of California history. 
  • Time: 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
  • Where: Rancho San Andrés Castro Adobe State Park Property Watsonville

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. This year’s theme is Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger California, is meant to inspire and celebrate the concept of unity and strength in representation. 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.