Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the history, culture and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans in the United States. Four Florida cities celebrated the month in September:

• City of Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, Councilman Ken Amaro, the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Rebecca Dominguez-Karimi kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month at City Hall and introduced “Voces de Hispanos,” a project created two years ago to ensure that the legacy of Northeast Florida’s Hispanic community is preserved.

• The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department hosted an event to raise awareness about the healthcare gaps in Hispanic communities. This free event provided opportunities to get moving with salsa, line dancing and aerobics while learning new ways to improve health. Vendors provided information about fitness, health care, insurance and social services. Local health professionals spoke. The event included entertainment and vendors sharing how they support the Hispanic community.

• A Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation was presented at the Ocoee City Commission Motorists saw “Ocoee Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month” pole banners. The City’s government station, Ocoee TV, is airing a series titled “Latino Americans: The 500-Year Legacy that Shaped a Nation.” “Latino Americans” is a six-hour documentary featuring interviews with nearly 100 Latinos and more than 500 years of history. The series is the first major television documentary to chronicle the history and experience of Latinos.

• City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and District 2 City Commissioner Tony Ortiz joined Domino USA for the opening of the Hispanic Heritage Month Art Exhibition at Orlando City Hall. Nine local visual arts showcased custom, handmade domino-inspired art pieces that feature the sport. Dominoes have historically been an important part of Latin American culture and are often associated with shared traditions and values such as family, community and friendship. The game is a colorful cultural touchstone and a highly competitive sport. Attendees participated in a game of dominoes as tables were set up for matches throughout the gallery. The exhibition runs through November 13, 2023.

Also, Dyer and Ortiz hosted the 17th annual City’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration to celebrate the diversity of cultures, traditions, achievements, contributions and rich history of the Hispanic and Latino community. Members of the community enjoyed traditional Hispanic dishes, Latin music and entertainment. To learn more about the Orlando events, visit orlando.gov/Hispanicheritage.