In honor of Latine Heritage Month, my office organized and hosted a celebration the Minnesota State Capitol. We were honored to be joined by the Tyrone Guzman Center, the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs and many other cultural bearers for this event. The celebration brought together Latine community leaders and elected officials to commemorate our heritage and state representation. We highlighted the achievements of youth scholars and artists, along with Minnesota Latine organizations, elders, educators, nurses, laborers, health practitioners, businesses, and the Consul of Mexico.
Last week marked a deeply significant moment in my legislative journey: a true full-circle moment. I was honored to deliver the keynote address at the Power 4 Puerto Rico Education Boricua Awards in Brooklyn, New York. The rich tapestry of Boricua stories, leadership, history, and education gave me meaningful opportunities as a child growing up here in Minnesota. This foundation allowed me to dream big, unify our diverse Minnesota communities, and develop curricula centered on inspiration and motivation through cultural arts and music programming.
As a member of the Minnesota State House of Representatives and a sitting member of the Education Finance Committee, I emphasized the critical significance of supporting and prioritizing Dual Language Immersion curriculum, cultural studies, and the impact of identity in education. When young students not only see themselves in their education but can hear themselves through their language and music, it empowers them and makes them feel comfortable to fully immerse themselves in their curriculum and learning environment. This connection is paramount to engagement and academic success. It is a beautiful and necessary mission to uplift and inspire. That's why I am dedicated to leveraging the tools our educators and students need to have a thriving education experience.
Throughout Latine Heritage Month and every day, we must proudly affirm the enduring spirit and immeasurable contributions of our Latine peoples. For the Minnesota Latine diaspora, this month is a powerful reminder that our strength lies in our collective story. We honor our rich and complex history not just to remember, but to keep us grounded in the movement for liberation—a struggle that demands our sustained effort and unwavering solidarity, just as our ancestors modeled. By embracing and sharing the brilliance of our culture, we fuel the passion of our youth, ensuring that younger generations are inspired to inherit the legacy of resistance, root firmly in their identity, and continue the march toward collective freedom.
We must never forget the importance of remembering our ancestors, documenting the wisdom of our elders, and leading with rhythm and movimiento. ¡Pa’lante Siempre!
St. Paul Delegation: Critical Conversation on Downtown Business Vitality
As a reminder, as the proud Chair of the Minnesota House St. Paul Delegation, I am hosting a community discussion with downtown business leaders and owners to address pressing concerns regarding the economic vitality, public policy, and local accountability of St. Paul on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 5:30 PM. Downtown business owners will have the opportunity to directly engage with state lawmakers on key legislative needs and to identify specific actions the Delegation can take to better support downtown commerce.
Due to limited seating, this meeting in intended for small business owners while the public can watch the livestream on my elected Facebook page.
Registration will close on Friday, October 10 at 3PM. Small business owners, please register by clicking here. If you are unable to attend but would like to send a staff member, manager, or representative for your business, you are more than welcome to send them.
It is an honor to represent downtown St. Paul and to fight for the countless residents and hardworking small business owners who are the true heart of our community. My office is always open. If you are a small business owner or a resident who feels unheard, I want to hear from you directly.
Please email me or call my office to share your perspective. I look forward to the conversation and continuing build a St. Paul that uplifts all our communities for generations to come.
Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega
Minnesota House of Representatives
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