Hispanic Heritage Month is more than a celebration. It is a call to recognize and uplift the voices of Latinx communities who strengthen every corner of our nation. At UC Davis Health, the Latinx Staff and Faculty Association (LSFA) is proud to provide a welcoming space where our Latinx staff can connect, celebrate their heritage, and find support. We are committed to uplifting our community's voices, stories, and achievements, ensuring that their impact is recognized and appreciated.
The Latinx community's roots in the United States run deep, especially in California, where our history goes back long before statehood. This legacy has left a lasting mark on the state's culture, economy and values. Today, Latinos comprise nearly one-fifth of the U.S. population – more than 62 million people – and 40 percent of Californians (U.S. Census Bureau).
With more than 2.2 million Latinos in health care roles nationwide (American Immigration Council), Latinx providers and support staff are shaping our culture of care. A recent article from UCLA states that theLatino GDP in California has surpassed $1 trillion as of 2023. If we were to remove all Latinx individuals from California tomorrow, you would still see our impact and contributions on this great state – from the architecture of historic missions to the agricultural fields that we cultivate and the very names of our cities. California would not be California without its Latinx population.
Today, your Latinx neighbors, coworkers, and friends are facing troubling times by those who aim to diminish our contributions. Such actions endanger the dignity, safety, and sense of belonging of valued members of our society. When efforts to advance diversity and inclusion are suppressed, the result is a community that is unsafe and unwelcoming to marginalized groups.
In moments like these, other institutions should aspire to the same level of dedication as UC Davis Health, which is steadfastly committed to ourPrinciples of Community. As health care professionals, we hold an ethical responsibility to provide equitable, unbiased, and compassionate care to every patient we serve, regardless of their background or immigration status. This commitment extends beyond clinical care. It includes ensuring our patients feel safe, respected, and valued.
During this Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize and celebrate the extraordinary dedication of our Latinx colleagues, whose skills, compassion, and resilience strengthen our institution every day. From frontline caregivers to researchers and administrators, our cultural heritage is a source of pride that enriches UC Davis Health and the communities we serve.
Today and always, LSFA remains committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all staff feel empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. We invite our community to join us in participating in cultural events, engaging in meaningful dialogue, and standing together in advocacy for equity and respect. Our heritage is one of perseverance and pride, and our collective voice is a powerful force for positive change.
To stay connected and be part of this passionate community, emaillsfa@health.ucdavis.eduto join our mailing list.
Yours in health,
Latinx Staff and Faculty Association Executive Committee
Learn more about all our UC Davis Health Employee Resource Groups. These groups are open to anyone, regardless of background, who wishes to support, participate, or be educated in the many cultures and communities at UC Davis Health. Membership and participation in Employee Resource Group activities are not dependent on race, ethnicity, sex, gender, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any protected category under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
