How much do you know about the history of Hispanic and Latino culture and community in Rockford?
In recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month, the Rockford Register Star has partnered with La Onda, a newly-formed nonprofit organization, to help share and celebrate the impact of Hispanic and Latino people, businesses and organizations in and around the Rockford area.
National Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized each year from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. Visit rrstar.com or the Rockford Register Star newspaper each day to read about the people and places that make up Rockford’s Latino community.
This week, we share biographies of remarkable Latino leaders who made historical strides in Rockford. It is both an honor and a challenge to encapsulate the contributions of only a few incredible individuals from the community in a single week.
Rudy Valdez, born in Chicago to parents who migrated from Guadalajara, Mexico in the 1950s, has significantly impacted the Rockford community through his dedication and leadership in both his career and community advocacy. His journey is a testament to the values of hard work and community service instilled in him by his family.