The theme for Hispanic Heritage Month 2023 is Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America. The Hispanic population in the United States accounts for 19%, or 1 in 5 Americans, according to the 2020 census. Further, the total economic output is estimated to be well over $2 trillion. The political and economic influence of those with Hispanic heritage continues to grow and contribute to the American landscape. While there has been progress in civil rights, education, healthcare and more, support, advocacy and equitable solutions are needed. This month we recognize a few individuals and organizations who make a difference.
Nick Storm is the CEO and founder of Blustorm Marketing Group. The Blustorm Marketing Group offers marketing strategies and consultation helping wine and spirits companies elevate their brand. Storm is an Afro-Latino man of Puerto Rican and African American descent who disrupted the wine and spirits industry when he sold one million cases of Hpnotiq in three years. He also worked with P. Diddy on the vodka brand Ciroc. Known as the Million Case Man, Storm was one of few minorities in the liquor industry. He believed that, “no matter your background - drive and hard work will pay off in success.”
Lizzie Velasquez was once dubbed “the world’s ugliest woman.” A viral video shamed the then 17-year-old for her rare condition, called neonatal progeroid syndrome. She endured cyberbullying which inspired her to become a motivational speaker and an anti-bullying activist. In 2013, Lizzie gave a Ted talk, reaching millions with her uplifting messages about beauty and happiness. Known for optimism and positivity, Lizzie commented that “My mission is always to remind people that no matter how different you are, you are meant to be in this world, and being different makes us unique. Your purpose in life is waiting for you.”
UnidosUS previously known as NCLR (National Council of La Raza) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that serves as the nation’s largest civil rights and advocacy group. Through a unique combination of expert research, advocacy programs and an Affiliate Network of three hundred community-based organizations across the United States and Puerto Rico, Unidos US simultaneously challenges the social, economic, and political barriers that affect Latinos at the national and local levels. UnidosUS has helped over 1.4 million immigrants become citizens, assisted 33,000 families buy their first home, invested over $2 billion in communities and registered one million Latino voters.