Contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the Wealth of the U.S.
Hispanic and Latino Americans contribute profoundly across every sector of American life. Their efforts, talents, and innovations strengthen the nation’s economic, cultural, and social fabric. Key contributions include:
Labor and Workforce: Hispanic workers represent nearly 20% of the U.S. labor force, with major roles in construction, agriculture, service industries, and health care, building infrastructure, harvesting food, and caring for communities.
Entrepreneurship: Over 5 million Hispanic-owned businesses operate in the U.S., generating more than $800 billion annually and creating millions of jobs.
Military Service: Hispanic and Latino Americans have a proud tradition of service, with more than 60 Medal of Honor recipients and strong representation in today’s armed forces.
Politics and Civic Leadership: Leaders like Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, U.S. Cabinet members, and a growing number of elected officials at local, state, and federal levels are shaping public policy.
Science, Medicine, and Technology: Hispanic innovators and scientists have advanced aerospace, medicine, and engineering. For example, Ellen Ochoa became the first Hispanic woman astronaut and later the director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Arts and Entertainment: From Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking theater to Rita Moreno’s Oscar-winning performances, Latino artists have transformed American culture. Latin music like salsa, reggaeton, mariachi, and Tejano have become a major part of the global music industry.
Sports: Athletes like Roberto Clemente, Laurie Hernandez, and Lionel Messi (playing in the U.S.) inspire excellence and represent resilience and pride on the global stage.
Community and Culture: Beyond economics, Hispanic and Latino communities enrich the nation with strong traditions of family, faith, resilience, and joy. Cultural celebrations like Día de los Muertos, Las Posadas, and Carnaval bring color and depth to American life.
As we observe National Hispanic Heritage Month, we are reminded that the story of America is incomplete without the voices, talents, and resilience of Hispanic and Latino communities. Their contributions, past, present, and future, are woven into every aspect of our nation’s progress, from building industries and shaping culture to leading in science, policy, and the arts. By honoring these legacies and supporting today’s leaders, entrepreneurs, and families, we not only celebrate heritage but also strengthen the shared future of our country.