National Hispanic Heritage Month

Observed annually from September 15 to October 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month (NHHM) honors the history and culture of Hispanics and Latin Americans whose origins are from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. NHHM also recognizes the contributions that Latinos and Hispanics have made to the history, society and culture of the United States and honors Mexico, Chile and the Central American countries who gained independence during this month.

The theme for 2022 is “UNIDOS: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation.” During this month, the Donate Life community celebrates and honors the generosity of Hispanic and Latino donors and donor families who gave the gift of life as well as all Latinos who work every day saving lives in the field of ​​Donation and Transplantation. Additionally, we raise awareness of the critical need for the Latino/Hispanic/Latinx community to register as organ, eye and tissue donors.

In 2021, 2,084 Latinos/Hispanics gave the gift of healing to others and 3,185 members of this community received an organ transplant. Sadly, more than 24,000 Latinos/Hispanics remain on the transplant waiting list for their life-saving gift. Both men and women from the LatinX community have a chronic liver disease rate that is twice the rate of non-Hispanic white population as well as other health issues which predisposes members of this community to organ failure.

The DEI Committee invites you to learn more from these local partners:

Ohio Hispanic Coalition

Hispanic Chamber of Columbus

La Mega Radio

OhioHealth Blog

Hispanic Restaurant Week

Content courtesy of AMAT

The DEI Committee is seeking new members. The Committee meets each month to discuss, strategize and implement internal and external projects and ideas. A member typically spends two to four hours per month on DEI work as part of this Committee.

If you are interested, please gain approval from your manager and send Lindsey Werts an e-mail indicating your interest.