Hispanic Heritage Month kicked off on Sunday and for the next month, we are going to be highlighting the history, culture and contributions of people with Hispanic roots.
On Monday, we spoke with an organization about its ongoing mission to connect youth, stakeholders and residents in Southwest Detroit.
Congress of Communities is a small nonprofit making big changes in a neighborhood that’s also known as Mexicantown for its rich Hispanic culture.
Lisa Gonzalez says her 15-year-old daughter has been able to learn about her Hispanic heritage through the youth program offered at CoC.
“It boosted my self-confidence, like oh wow, I’m actually doing great as a mom getting her into these programs,” Gonzalez said. “This morning, she woke up and said ‘¡Feliz día de la independencía de Mexico, mom!'”
“It’s like happy Independence Day, like you know, we celebrate our Fourth of July here in American. And in Mexico, they celebrate their independence on the 15th of September,” Gonzalez continued.