In honor of Hispanic Heritage month, I will be bringing recognition to our beloved Hispanic community that lies in Omaha. 

Now I myself am Hispanic and I am only familiar with the Latino community in South Omaha but this comes from a  deep rooted origination. For most of my childhood the majority of my family lived in the South area, including myself. It might seem biased, but South Omaha has the most united Latino community I have seen in Nebraska, and I will be giving in to the benefits and connections it has with Omaha’s Hispanic population.

South Omaha is known as a Hispanic-dominant area. According to Unomaha, roughly 14% of South O’s population is Hispanic, and that is because of the large concentration of Latinos near packing houses and Union Stockyards. 

When driving into the Latino community, native language signs and traditions can be immediately seen. The sensation of driving through a city that recognizes your culture and gives off a sense of home, is the most comforting aspect South Omaha has to offer. 

24th street is located in South O and is what I would call the Latino center. Not only does the street have numerous stores and miscellaneous shops that offer native resources that one might not find at a typical convenience store, but it also offers an endless amount of opportunities. The Latino center of Midlands is located at 24th street and it is a home to many thriving Latinos who search for opportunities. They offer inspiring services such as educational support, workforce development, and leadership opportunities. 

From personal experience, the Latino center of Midlands has helped families overcome the oppression served here in the US. My mother was able to receive her GED thanks to the help of the Midland staff; they encouraged her even when she doubted herself and inspired her to reach further. As a student at PLHS, I find myself looking for opportunities to connect with the Latino community in South O. Because of its significance to not only me, but many Latinos, It serves as a sanctuary for people to go and connect with their culture while having the same sensation of their home country.

A moment that I will never forget is when I went to one of our school’s soccer games. We were going against South Omaha and I had decided to go and take pictures. After the game ended, I walked up onto the concrete platform where the concession stands were located and right as I walked up, I smelt the delicious aroma of tacos. What caught me by surprise was the big sold out sign put out in front of the taco stand. 

I felt a warm sensation. Our PLHS community had contributed to a small Latino business. Although it might seem insignificant, after the event I recognized the connections that are created between communities and how they create a touching relationship.

South O is not only a place for Latinos to come together but it is also a site in which humans can surround themselves in the Latino community and absorb the culture; almost like a cultural learning center. On the weekend of Cinco De Mayo, a grand festival is thrown at 24th street and people all over Nebraska are welcomed to celebrate Hispanic traditions and have an idea of how Latinos interact. 

Having events and centers like the ones I have listed, create a healthy environment for our population and symbolize the importance of embracing culture and connecting with others.