U.S. Latinos Drive Over Half of Population Growth Through 2024, Fastest Growing Group

The Latino population in the United States has nearly doubled from 35.3 million in 2000 to 68 million in 2024, making Latinos the second-largest racial or ethnic group and accounting for more than half of the country's population growth during this period. Celebrations for Hispanic Heritage Month, which spans from September 15 to October 15, have become important community events, though some institutions, such as Marist University, face criticism for insufficient emphasis on cultural recognition, often leaving the responsibility to students themselves. Organizations like La Voz Latina at Trinity College foster Latino culture and community engagement through various events, providing spaces for students to connect over shared heritage and experiences. Latino heritage is also visibly alive in neighborhoods, plazas, and marketplaces across the U.S., where traditions, music, food, and art reflect a vibrant history of resilience and cultural reinvention. These cultural expressions and dedicated spaces highlight the ongoing struggle for inclusion, equal treatment, and representation in American society. Such celebrations and places not only preserve Latino identity and memory but also contribute significantly to shaping the nation's cultural landscape.