Latin American Heritage Month events honouring those who served

September 29, 2022 - Defence Stories

This article was contributed by Captain Rey Garcia-Salas, head of the Latin American Heritage Month planning committee

October marks the start of Latin American Heritage Month, a time to highlight the many contributions of the Latin American community in Canada. For the Defence Team, it’s also a time to honour our Veterans and learn from our comrades and colleagues.

For example, did you know that members of the Latin American community served in the First and Second World Wars? What’s more, some came to Canada in order to be recruited voluntarily. Many spoke Spanish as a first language, which wasn’t widely spoken in Canada at the time. Their ability to share their culture, while adapting to life in Canada’s military, was remarkable.

Who is Latin American in Canada?

Many Canadians of Latin American descent arrived here in the late 20th century. Those who maintain their culture today are considered Latin American, though their ancestors may originate from other continents. There are also Indigenous People who identify as Latin American.

Events, services and ceremonies

Every year, the Latin American Heritage Month planning committee – which includes Department of National Defence employees, Canadian Armed Forces members and others from the community – coordinates and participates in local and national events, to mark the month and honour the memory of our Veterans.

Below are some events you may participate in and attend: 

OTTAWA - Field of Sacrifice, a Photographic exhibition

September 12 to October 2, 2022
Gallery 55, 55 ByWard Market on the second floor

TORONTO - Latin Parade 2022

October 9, 2022, at 10:00 am
From Saint Joseph Street to Yonge Sreet and Dundas Square

Military members will be leading this parade. To participate, send an email to latinsoldierscanada@gmail.com. For more information, please visit the Hispanic Canadian Heritage Council’s website (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).

OTTAWA - Latin American Remembrance Ceremony at Beechwood Cemetery

October 17, 2022, at 10:30 am
Cross of Sacrifice at the Veterans Section, National Military Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Avenue

To attend this ceremony, please register your name on the event page on Beechwood’s website (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).

TORONTO - Mass Service in honour of Private Rafael Rodriguez and Latin American soldiers who served in the First and Second World Wars

October 22, 2022, at 10:00 am
Saint Monica Parish, 44 Broadway Avenue

To attend this service, please register your name on the Eventbrite page (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).  

TORONTO - Latin American Remembrance Ceremony at Mount Hope Cemetery, where Private Rafael Rodriguez is buried

October 22, 2022, at 11:45 am

To attend this ceremony, please register your name on the Eventbrite page (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) .