Every October, Latin American Heritage Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of Latin American communities and recognize the diverse experiences, cultures and histories that continue to shape Canada.
Officially designated by Parliament in 2018, the month recognizes the important contribution of Latin American Canadians to out country’s social, cultural, economic, and political life.
At the Society of United Professionals, we are proud to recognize our members of Latin American and Hispanic heritage and the knowledge, experiences and perspectives they bring to our workplaces, our union and our communities.
Latin American communities represent a wide range of identities, languages and cultural traditions, shaped by generations of Indigenous, African, European, Asian and migrant experiences. Recognizing this diversity means appreciating the distinct histories and perspectives within these communities, while acknowledging the contributions they continue to make across Canada.
As a union of professionals, we also recognize that inclusion extends beyond representation. It means ensuring that people have equitable opportunities to succeed, that their contributions are valued and that their voices are heard. For many racialized professionals in Canada, barriers related to discrimination, career advancement and the recognition of qualifications remain important workplace issues. Addressing these challenges and building more equitable workplaces are part of our ongoing commitment to fairness and dignity at work.
Our Black and Racialized Professionals Committee help advance this work by creating opportunities for members to share experiences, discuss issues affecting racialized professionals and strengthen connections across our union.
Latin American Heritage Month is an opportunity to build on these conversations, recognize the contributions of our members and encourage greater understanding throughout our membership.
LEARN, CONNECT AND CELEBRATE
We encourage members to explore the following resources and opportunities to learn more about Latin American heritage, recognize professional achievements and connect with communities across Canada.
Professional development and community connections
- Hispanotech: supports Latin American professionals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through mentoring, networking and professionals’ development opportunities in Canada.
- Latin Project Management Network: connects professionals through mentorship, learning and networking, helping individuals strengthen their careers and build professional relationships.
- Canadian Hispanic Business Alliance: promotes the achievements and leadership of Hispanic and Latin American Canadians, including through its annual "10 Most Influential Hispanic Canadians" recognition program.
- Latino Canadian Cultural Association (LatCan): Saskatoon-based nonprofit bringing together artists, professionals and community members through cultural events, programs and opportunities to connect.
- LATAM.ca: Connects Latin American communities in Saskatoon through cultural initiatives, professional networking, entrepreneurship and community events.
- AFL-CIO: Hispanic Heritage Month Profile — Francisco “Frankie” Preciado: The AFL-CIO recognizes Francisco “Frankie” Preciado, Executive Director of ESC/IFPTE Local 20, for his leadership in the labour movement. His work in organizing and collective bargaining highlights the contributions of Hispanic leaders to strengthening unions and advancing the interests of working people.
Explore culture, history and lived experiences
- Toronto Latin American Film Festival showcases Latin American filmmaking and storytelling, offering opportunities to explore a range of perspectives and experiences.
- More Than Tequila explores Latin American identity, immigration, culture and the experiences of Latin American communities in Canada
- Latin American Heritage Month is a community-led organization promoting Latin American culture, history and achievements through events and initiatives.
Learn more about equity in Canadian workplaces
- Statistics Canada: Portrait of the Latin American Populations in Canada offers insights into the diversity, educational attainment and employment experiences of Latin American communities in Canada
Stay connected to your union
The Society’s Black and Racialized Professionals Committee provides a space for members to connect, share perspectives and help advance equity within our union and workplaces. Members interested in contributing to these conversations are encouraged to learn more about the committee and opportunities to get involved.
Learn more about the Black and Racialized Professionals Committee
As we recognize Latin American Heritage month, we celebrate the contributions of Latin American and Hispanic communities and the role our members play in strengthening our workplaces and our unions.
By listening, learning and staying connected, we can continue working toward workplaces and communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
