Source: Jorge Rodriguez
Department: Hispanic American Council
Phone: (269) 385-6279
Email: contactHAC@kzoo.org

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Hispanic American Council of Kalamazoo, MI announces the 2007 Hispanic Heritage Festival slated for Saturday September 29th, 2007, at the Kalamazoo County Fairgrounds, from 11 AM to 7 PM.

We will celebrate our rich and unique culture. Hispanic Heritage Month is commemorated throughout the United States and Latin America. During this festival, we share our food, music and folkloric dances, along with other family and children’s activities. This festival, also known as the “Fiesta in the Park” has been part of Kalamazoo’s end-of-the-summer celebration for many years. Many companies and foundations have supported this event throughout the years and hundreds of families and individuals have attended this Festival each year.

This year’s contests like the “Taco Eating Contest”, the “Jalapeño Eating Contest” and the “Best Salsa of Kalamazoo” promise to make this Festival an exhilarating one. Additionally, there will be lots of music and food.

The mission of the Hispanic American Council (HAC) is to advocate for the well being of the Hispanic community of Kalamazoo County. As a liaison between potential clients and service agencies, the Council seeks to meet the needs of a special population, often hindered by language barriers, cultural differences and unfamiliarity with service agencies and institutions. Through our programs and services, our goal as an agency is to assist Hispanics in attending self-sufficiency and a higher level of social and economic well being. The Council strives to nourish and encourage the diverse cultural heritage of the Hispanic population, while empowering individuals through enculturation and acculturation. HAC has been providing services to the Hispanic community in southwest Michigan for more than 25 years.

The City of Kalamazoo is committed to advancing the public's health, safety and economic welfare by providing leadership, services, information, and support for the citizens, businesses, and visitors of Kalamazoo.