Personally, I prefer the archaic definition of “a special or individual possession.” This way of thinking about heritage gives a new and valuable perspective. When I think of Hispanic heritage through this lens, I see a unique and powerful treasure: our strength and unity as a community.

It’s no secret that the influence of the Hispanic population in the United States is growing. According to a recent Pew Research Center study, 65.2 million Hispanics were living in the U.S. as of July 1, 2023. That’s more than 19% of the nation’s population.

With such growth and influence comes the responsibility to be productive citizens who actively work toward the common good. Every day, I see my Hispanic brothers and sisters doing exactly that, despite challenges and setbacks.

We refuse to be discouraged. Like true Americans, we pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and get back to work. Instead of fear and despair, I see testimonies of strength, resilience, and courage. I hear people filled with hope and optimism for the future, eager to take on a key role in shaping it.

One thing I love about the Hispanic community is that we’re not just concerned with our own future. We don’t just look out for our own — we stand up for those who are overlooked. I’ve seen this firsthand since the terrible events of Oct. 7, 2023.

While so many have retreated in the face of rising antisemitism, we have spoken up and stood alongside our Jewish brothers and sisters. We know what it is like to be looked down on, and we will not let others suffer in silence.

All over the country, we have spoken up on their behalf, resisting antisemitism and calling our leaders to do the same. More than anything, we realize that we’re stronger together. It is this belief in the power of unity that fuels our determination to make our voices heard in every arena, including the political process.

As the second-largest population in the U.S., we have a voice. We live in a democracy that honors and celebrates that voice, and that’s why Hispanic Americans are eager to exercise their right to vote.

That will make a difference in this election. Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris should prioritize the Hispanic vote. They should know that we care and are eager to vote for a candidate who cares about us and the things that matter to us.

We know it is a privilege to help shape the future of this great country. And with the rise of political violence and hatred, we refuse to give up ground to the forces of evil that seek to destroy what so many generations before us have fought to preserve.

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Instead, we say that this cycle of hate must end. We call for peace and for a return to the values of freedom and grace that have guided the U.S. for nearly 250 years. People have said evil will triumph when good people do nothing. Well, it will never be said that we did nothing. It will never be said that we turned away because the challenges were too significant.

I know this because I’ve seen it. I’ve seen the strength and unity of the Hispanic community. As we continue to grow, our influence and capacity to do good will only increase. That is a great opportunity. At its core, that is what Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates: the opportunity to reflect on God’s love and justice in our actions as we help shape a brighter future for all.

Samuel Rodriguez is the pastor of New Season Church.