September 15 to October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage month. During this time, we celebrate the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the United States, while also recognizing the rich and wonderful Hispanic heritage in our country.

Today, I recognize and celebrate the contribution that Hispanics have made to the recovery of our cities and communities in the Greater New Orleans Area. Specifically, I refer to those who arrived in our area after Hurricane Katrina. As someone who calls New Orleans home, and has lived in this area for over 30 years, I salute the Hispanic new comers to our area.

Our region has enjoyed the presence of a stable Hispanic community for many decades. I estimate the current Hispanic population in the metro area to be between 100,000 – 150,000, compared to 80,000 – 100,000 pre-Katrina. No one really knows the exact figures. However, it is evident this segment of our general population has increased tremendously. They are contributing by rebuilding our homes and buildings, teaching in our schools, and taking on leadership roles in non-profit groups. They are also working in the hospitality industry, healthcare systems, law enforcement agencies, and financial institutions. I believe our communities have benefitted greatly from this.

As move into the next phase of our recovery, let’s express our gratitude to those who came to help clean up and rebuild our communities. Yes, they came looking for opportunities that would allow them to earn a living but, at the same time, they provided, and continue to provide, a greatly needed service. We still have a long way to go in this journey. I hope many Hispanics set roots in our area and make it their home. We will all benefit from this and it will make our gumbo of cultures even better.

A grant from the Fomento Social BANAMEX Fund to the Hispanic Apostolate, administered through the Greater New Orleans Foundation, provides money for a wide range of programs from job assistance to health access. Read More.