From the Chamber
With approximately 25 percent of Great Bend’s population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, accounting for around 3,600 residents, Hispanic residents and Hispanic-owned businesses serve as vital drivers of the community’s economy, influencing commercial vitality and core regional labor markets, said Megan Barfield, president and chief executive officer of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce.
"Hispanic entrepreneurs form a strong presence along main commercial corridors such as 10th Street and Main Street," she said "By occupying real estate along primary corridors, Hispanic business owners help minimize commercial vacancy, contributing directly to downtown revitalization and commercial property values."
Because of this, the chamber takes this time to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month which runs Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 under the theme "Together, We Are More," or Unidos Somos Más. The annual observance offers a dedicated 30-day period to recognize the history, culture and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities across the United States.
Great Bend’s share stands substantially higher than the overall Kansas state average of nearly 14 percent Hispanic, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Local households generate sustained demand for housing, groceries, utilities and retail services, feeding directly into Great Bend’s municipal sales tax base and local property tax revenues.
Barfield said the local commercial footprint includes nine Hispanic businesses that are chamber members include a wide range of food and hospitality venues, including Baja Burrito, Delgado's, Los Cabos Fajita House, Los Compadres, The Handlebar and Grill and MD's Kitchen. The business landscape also extends to retail and practical services, such as Yeraldi's Boutique, GB Auto sales, and custom printing at Identifications Co.
“Beyond business ownership, Hispanic workers provide essential labor for central Kansas's primary economic sectors, including construction, manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare and food service,” Barfield said. “Hispanic entrepreneurs also hire locally, generating new jobs and expanding employment options across the community.
“In line with regional and national trends, Hispanic individuals exhibit high rates of business formation, starting ventures that offer everyday services to sustain community demand through various economic cycles,” she said. Furthermore, these businesses facilitate bilingual trade and services, attracting regional consumers from neighboring rural counties in central Kansas who seek culturally relevant or Spanish-accessible commerce.
What does this celebrate?
The federal recognition began in 1968 when President Lyndon B. Johnson established a week-long celebration. President Ronald Reagan later expanded the observance in 1988 into the current 30-day period ending Oct. 15.
According to the National Museum of the American Latino at the Smithsonian Institution, the month-long recognition gives extra attention to the impact made by Latinas and Latinos over generations, "including important advocacy work, vibrant art, popular and traditional foods, and much more."
The mid-month timing of the observance carries historical significance across Latin America. Sept. 15 marks the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Additionally, Mexico celebrates its independence on Sept. 16, followed by Chile on Sept. 18.
Information from the museum notes Hispanic presence in North America spans centuries, predating Spanish colonization in parts of what is now the United States. Latino involvement in shaping the nation dates back to the Revolutionary War, with subsequent territorial expansion following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and the Treaty of Paris incorporating communities throughout the Southwest and Puerto Rico.
According to the Census Bureau, the Latino population in the United States currently exceeds 60 million people, representing 18.9 percent of the total population and standing as the nation's largest racial or ethnic minority group.
About the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce serves as the leading visionary advocate and voice for the local business community, dedicated to enhancing the economic climate of the Great Bend area. Through a strategic focus on business advocacy, community marketing, and future-forward investment, the Chamber fosters an environment where existing members can reach their goals while new enterprises are welcomed and empowered to grow. By delivering high-value services and cultivating vital partnerships, the Great Bend Chamber remains committed to providing its members with the best possible impact for their investment and ensuring a thriving, connected marketplace for all. Visit greatbend.org.