September 18, 2023

National Hispanic Heritage Month, held annually September 15 through October 15, honors the deep roots and rich culture of all Latin American countries. And TriHealth is proud to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of the Hispanic/Latinx community within our system and across our community. 

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.

This month and all year long, we hope you will join us in learning about and celebrating the rich heritage, historical contributions and trailblazing achievements of the diverse ethnic cultures that make up our health system and the community we serve.

The TriHealth DEI+B team, in partnership with SOMOS, our Hispanic/Latinx Employee Resource Group, have put together a number of events and activities for our team members and physicians to participate in over the coming weeks. Look out for more details and ways to engage with, better understand, and enjoy the richness of Hispanic culture in our community, starting with these opportunities:

• Hispanic Cuisine: DEI+B has arranged for food trucks featuring Hispanic menu items to visit to campuses of Good Samaritan and Bethesda North Hospitals in early October. Cash and credit cards are accepted at both food trucks.
  • Good Samaritan - Dixmyth Entrance, in front of valet:
    • Wednesday, October 4, 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Taste of Mexico food truck
    • Wednesday, October 11, 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Jorge Tacos food truck
  • Bethesda North - L1 Parking Deck:
    • Wednesday, October 4, 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Jorge Tacos food truck
    • Wednesday, October 11, 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Taste of Mexico food truck
  
  Additionally, cafeterias across TriHealth will be serving delicious Hispanic meals to try throughout the coming weeks!

• Weekly “Spotlight” Features: We’ll be showcasing Hispanic TriHealth team members and physicians along with community partners each week who will share their personal stories about how their heritage shaped their lives and careers, as well as what Hispanic Heritage Month means to them.
  
  Our first week’s feature is Alfonso Cornejo, President of the Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati. Learn more here!

• Salsa On The Square: Attend Salsa On The Square on Thursday, September 21! Salsa On The Square features live local and regional Latin bands specializing in Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia and Latin Jazz. Talented instructors lead two large dance classes, Mazunte serves up some delicious dishes, and more! Salsa On The Square is free and occurs every Thursday through September 28 from 7 – 10 p.m. on Fountain Square (520 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202).

• Fiesta Rojos at the Reds: The Reds will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with their annual Hispanic Community Night, “Fiesta Rojos,” presented by Toyota on Friday, September 22 at 6:40 p.m. The event will feature activities in the community and ceremonies at Great American Ballpark. Learn more here!

• Noche Latina at FC Cincinnati: Noche Latina returns to TQL Stadium as FC Cincinnati celebrates Hispanic Culture during its Saturday, September 23 match. Various activities are scheduled throughout the evening to celebrate Noche Latina, including Spanish public address announcements and an in-stadium Latino playlist. Learn more here!

• Community Clean Up Volunteer Day: In partnership with the Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati, TriHealth team members will come together on Saturday, October 14 to landscape, clean, paint and refresh Roberts Academy in Price Hill. Volunteers will help beautify the school campus and connect with families in the community, demonstrating our values-led commitment to SERVE. Click here to sign up to volunteer and learn more.

Don’t forget to support local Hispanic/Latinx businesses! Cincy Sabroso rounds up 235+ Hispanic/Latinx restaurants in Greater Cincinnati, and even lists them by cuisine! Additionally, the Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati USA has a Member Directory of the many Hispanic/Latinx-owned local businesses.

Check back for more information and how to get involved!