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By FSIS Hispanic Special Emphasis Program Manager Denise I. Lauletta, OFO

All Bolivian coins bear the inscription “la unión es la fuerza,” meaning “union is strength” in Spanish. This principle is also key for our own country as it becomes a more inclusive, diverse and stronger nation. Currently, Hispanics represent a substantial portion of the U.S. population: 18.7 percent. According to the Census projections, the U.S. Hispanic population will continue to grow, reaching more than 111 million people by 2060. President Joe Biden has said that because a quarter of children in the U.S. are Hispanic, the nation’s collective success depends on the success of the Hispanic community.

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed every year from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, recognizes and celebrates the success of the Hispanic community and is a reminder of how much strength can be drawn from immigrant roots and values. Hispanic influence can be seen in our culture such as in some of the foods we enjoy, the rhythm of the music we listen to, the literature we read, television shows and movies that we watch and more. The Hispanic community has also contributed to America’s prosperity, technological advancement and national security. They have served proudly in the U.S. military; they are teachers, elected officials, doctors and more.

FSIS celebrates the Hispanic workforce and recognizes the importance of the representation of qualified Hispanics at all levels within the agency. FSIS is also committed to continue paving pathways to maintain a diverse workforce and removing barriers to hiring and retaining workers. As we further inclusivity and unity, we will be a stronger nation.