October is Latin American Heritage Month!
Dear colleagues and friends,
October marks Latin American Heritage Month, designated by the Parliament of Canada in 2018. It is an opportunity for Canadians to recognize the valuable contribution of members of the Latin American community to Canada’s social, economic, political and cultural fabric. It is also an opportunity to learn about Latin America and connect with our friends and colleagues with roots in Latin America.
Latin America consists of Mexico and Central America, South America, and parts of the Caribbean. The term is used inconsistently among geographers because while some consider South America part of the region, others do not. The main purpose for the naming of Latin America, however, is the influence from Spanish, Portuguese and French exploration and colonialism throughout history. An easy way to think about where Latin America is, would be to identify the Spanish, Portuguese, and French-speaking countries south of the United States.
The region is a melting pot of cultures, with heavy influence from Spanish, Portuguese, and French language and culture. Much of the region's art, music, and cultural influence blends African and European elements. Economically, Latin America has been slower to develop than the countries of Europe or the United States and Canada, but in recent years an economic boom has helped to shape many Latin American nations and bring them into the digital era. South Americans especially are very active with technology and have some of the fastest-growing economies and markets for items such as phones and computers.
The United Nations recognizes 33 Latin American countries. They are: Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Panama, Belize, Haiti, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Bahamas, Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Peru, Venezuela, Chile, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Suriname, and Guyana.
Happy Latin American Heritage Month to all Canadians with connections to Latin America!
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me, or anyone of your PIPSC Stewards, if you have questions, suggestions or comments to share.
Stay safe, stay well!
Respectfully,
Waheed Khan
President, National Consultation Team