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Welcome to this Special Exhibition on
the Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC)!
We are honoured to present the Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC) in our Community in Action Gallery. Since 1983, the CHC has been a pillar of support, advocacy, and empowerment for the Hispanic community in Canada. This exhibition highlights the CHC's significant contributions to promoting cultural heritage, fostering integration, and advocating for the rights and recognition of Hispanic Canadians. Join us in celebrating the CHC's enduring legacy and pivotal role in enriching Canada's multicultural tapestry. Thank you for visiting, and we hope you find inspiration in the remarkable journey of the CHC.
Canadian Hispanic Congress:
A Legacy of Unity and Progress
Introduction
The Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC), established on August 15, 1983, is a national organization representing the interests of over 1.6 million Spanish-speaking Canadians from more than 20 countries. The CHC strives to ensure the full participation of Hispanic Canadians in Canada's economic, political, social, and cultural life.
The name “Canadian Hispanic Congress” was chosen to emphasize the Spanish language as the unifying element among organizations and individuals from more than 20 different countries. The CHC has been instrumental in promoting the cultural heritage and contributions of the Hispanic-Latin American community in Canada.
Presidents of the Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC)
Elvira Sánchez de Malicki
(Ecuador/Ontario) (1983-1987)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Elvira Sánchez de Malicki holds an Executive MBA from Queen’s University. She has been a prominent figure in the Hispanic community in Canada, having worked with Malicki Sanchez Law since 1969. She has served on numerous boards, including the Canadian Ethnocultural Council, the National Association of Immigrant and Visible Minority Women of Canada, Telefilm Canada, Harbourfront Centre, and the Ontario Health Professions Appeal and Review Board. Elvira is also the founder and Artistic Director of Open Experience Theatre and has had a significant career in television as the anchor of "Ultima Hora" and host/producer of "Hispanos en Canada."
Contributions as CHC President: Elvira founded the CHC and was its first president, laying the foundation for the organization, which at one point had close to 300 member organizations constituted into Provincial Chapters in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec and affiliated organizations in the Maritimes. She also founded the Canadian Hispanic-Latin American Virtual Museum to showcase the contributions of Hispanic-Latin Americans to Canada. Her leadership focused on promoting Hispanic culture and ensuring the community's full participation in Canadian society. She played a critical role in establishing the CHC as a vital platform for cultural exchange and community support.
Victor Velasquez
(Chile/Quebec) (1987-1990s)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Victor Velasquez worked with the Municipality of Montreal, focusing on community integration and support for Hispanic immigrants.
Contributions as CHC President: During his presidency, Victor worked on fostering community integration and promoting the interests of the Hispanic community within the municipal framework. His efforts helped strengthen the ties between the Hispanic community and local government, enhancing visibility and support for Hispanic Canadians.
Felix Mora
(Chile/Alberta)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Felix Mora co-produced the acclaimed "Hispanos en Canada" television program with Elvira Sánchez de Malicki. He also served on the Immigration Appeal and Review Board and the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board and later became a Justice of the Peace.
Contributions as CHC President: Felix emphasized political participation and civic engagement among Hispanic Canadians. His leadership in public service and media significantly contributed to advocating for the Hispanic community's rights and representation in various government processes.
Dr. Bernardo Berdichewsky
(Chile/British Columbia)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Dr. Bernardo Berdichewsky was a professor of anthropology and the author of several books. His academic work focused on the cultural and social dynamics of natives in BC and the Hispanic communities.
Contributions as CHC President: Dr. Berdichewsky focused on academic and cultural initiatives promoting the understanding and integration of Hispanic cultures within Canadian society. His contributions to the CHC included enhancing its educational mission and fostering anthropological knowledge and appreciation.
Deyanira Benavides
(El Salvador/Ontario)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Deyanira Benavides has been a paralegal in various law offices since 1988 and a prominent advocate for immigrants and refugees. She is a former refugee from El Salvador and has served on the Boards of several organizations, including the Ontario Council on Multiculturalism and Citizenship.
Contributions as CHC President: Deyanira focused on women's issues and the integration of Hispanic immigrants into Canadian society. Her leadership was marked by initiatives to empower women and support immigrants through legal and community services.
Vilma Filici
(Argentina/Ontario)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Vilma Filici is a renowned immigration consultant and educator with over thirty years of experience. She has shaped the profession in Canada and has been a key resource for complex immigration cases.
Contributions as CHC President: Vilma led initiatives fostering educational opportunities for Hispanic Canadians. She advocated extensively on immigration policy changes and their impacts on the Hispanic community, ensuring their rights and interests were represented.
Elias Morales
(El Salvador/Ontario)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Elias Morales is a minister and has worked extensively with refugees, focusing on immigration and refugee support services.
Contributions as CHC President: Elias played a crucial role in advocating for refugees and immigrants. His leadership helped shape the CHC’s efforts in providing essential support and resources to newcomers, fostering their integration into Canadian society.
Nuria Lissette Rajo
(El Salvador/Ontario) (Dates of Tenure)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Nuria Lissette Rajo is Canada's dedicated mental health professional and community leader. She serves as the Mental Health Coordinator at North Park Community Centre. She has held various roles in mental health support and advocacy, including positions at the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Catholic Children's Aid Society of Toronto. Nuria has extensive experience facilitating support groups for Spanish-speaking women and working with youth in settlement services. Nuria is also a registered psychotherapist with the CRPO and runs her practice focusing on supporting women. Additionally, she is an immigration case manager with AAT Immigration & Citizenship Consultancy.
Contributions as CHC President: As President of the Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC), Nuria Lissette Rajo played a crucial role in promoting the mental health and well-being of the Hispanic community in Canada. She leveraged her expertise to enhance community support initiatives and fostered strong connections between the CHC and mental health organizations. Her leadership focused on integrating mental health advocacy with cultural preservation, ensuring the Hispanic community had access to necessary resources and support. Nuria's tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the CHC’s outreach through digital platforms, emphasizing the importance of mental health and community engagement.
Eldy Ampuero
(Bolivia/Ontario) (2007-2011)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Eldy Ampuero is an insurance professional and founder of the Canadian Bolivian Chamber of Commerce. She is a cultural ambassador supporting folkloric and other cultural groups and a Canadian Hispanic-Latin American Virtual Museum director.
Contributions as CHC President: Eldy's presidency focused on business development, community advocacy, and cultural promotion. She was pivotal in the CHC's involvement in the Pan American Games, significantly organizing and supporting Hispanic cultural representation during the event.
Monique Forster
(Ecuador/Ontario) (2015-present)
Career and Personal Accomplishments: Monique Forster is a distinguished university professor and community leader in Canada. She serves as the Durham Catholic District School Board Chair and has been a Trustee since 2014. Monique is also a corporate trainer with a demonstrated commitment to educational excellence and inclusion. Her leadership extends to various roles, including Director of the Canadian Hispanic Latin American Virtual Museum (CHLAVM) and Board Member of Catholic Family Services of Durham, where she supports women victims of violence.
Contributions as CHC President: As the President of the Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC), Monique Forster has been instrumental in advocating for the interests of the Hispanic community in Canada. She has modernized the CHC’s approach by leveraging digital platforms and enhancing community engagement through virtual initiatives. Monique has focused on promoting women's empowerment and the interests and rights of Hispanic Canadians at various government levels and within broader society. Her efforts have strengthened the community’s presence and influence within Canadian society, continuing the legacy of her predecessors and advancing the organization’s mission.
The Founding Members of the Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC)
Elvira Sánchez de Malicki (Ecuador)
Elvira holds an Executive MBA from Queen’s University and has been a pivotal figure in the Hispanic community in Canada. She founded the Canadian Hispanic Congress and the Canadian Hispanic-Latin American Virtual Museum. Elvira has served on numerous boards, including the Canadian Ethnocultural Council, the National Association of Immigrant and Visible Minority Women of Canada, Telefilm Canada, Harbourfront Centre, and the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board. In television, she was the anchor of the nightly newscast “Ultima Hora,” host and producer of “Hispanos en Canada,” and the Artistic Director of Open Experience Theatre. She has been involved with Malicki Sanchez Law since 1969, contributing significantly to the advocacy and cultural landscape of the Hispanic community in Canada.
Mari Carmen Espinal (Spain)
Mari Carmen Espinal was a key figure in the Spanish community in Toronto, significantly contributing through her involvement with Club Hispano. She supported numerous cultural events and was known for her activities in the kitchen, on the dance floor, in the choir, and in creating costumes for various events. Her efforts helped foster a vibrant community and preserved Spanish cultural traditions in Canada.
José Fernandez (Spain)
José Fernandez was one of the signatories and founding members of the CHC. He played a significant role in the organization's initial establishment and development, although specific details about his later contributions are less documented.
Estrella Mendez (Uruguay)
Estrella Mendez was an active member and President of Club Uruguay in Toronto. She contributed significantly to the development of the CHC and was involved in various community events that promoted Uruguayan culture and supported the Hispanic community in Toronto.
Diego Marin (Spain)
Professor Diego Marin, a contemporary of Federico Garcia Lorca, taught at the University of Toronto and founded the Alianza Cultural Hispano Canadiense. He significantly contributed to Hispanic literature in Canada and played a crucial role in establishing the CHC. His academic work and cultural initiatives helped promote Hispanic heritage and literature in Canada.
Francisco B. Espinoza (Ecuador)
Francisco B. Espinoza was involved in soccer leagues, particularly Liga Ecuatoriana de Futbol Amateur (LEFA). He was key in promoting sports among Hispanic boys and girls in Toronto. Additionally, he worked with the City of Toronto, contributing to the community’s development through sports and recreation programs.
José Cristobal Gomez (Spain)
José Cristobal Gomez was an active member of Club Hispano and was very involved in Hispanic soccer leagues during the 1980s. His contributions to the founding of the CHC and his involvement in sports helped strengthen community ties and provided opportunities for youth engagement in physical activities.
Carlos Marulanda (Colombia)
Carlos Marulanda was very involved with the Colombian community and played a significant role in the early development of the CHC. He participated in various community initiatives and supported cultural events celebrating Colombian heritage and the Hispanic-Latin American diaspora.
Jorge E. Romero (Ecuador)
Jorge E. Romero was an influential figure in the Hispanic community in Canada, mainly known for his work with L.E.F.A. (Liga Ecuatoriana de Fútbol Amateur). His dedication to promoting sports within the Hispanic community has had a lasting impact, providing numerous youth engagement and development opportunities through soccer.
Richard Hugh Baker (Argentina)
Richard Hugh Baker was a lawyer and founding member of the CHC. He was involved in various multicultural and immigrant support initiatives in Canada, providing legal and community support to Hispanic-Latin American immigrants. His work helped many Hispanic Canadians navigate legal and social systems in their new country.
Manuel Gonzalez (Peru)
Manuel Gonzalez was an active member and one of the founders of the Asociación Peruano Canadiense. He also founded and served as president of “La Casa de los Abuelos de Mississauga.” His efforts were focused on improving the conditions for Hispanic Canadians and organizing the Los Hispanos Pavilions of Caravan in Toronto, showcasing Hispanic-Latin American culture and traditions.
David Moreno (Mexico)
David Moreno, a travel agent, was very involved with the Mexican community in Toronto and the broader Hispanic diaspora. As a founding member of the CHC, he was instrumental in cultural and educational initiatives that promoted Hispanic heritage in Canada. His work in the travel industry also helped strengthen connections between Hispanic Canadians and their countries of origin.
Blanca Jansuzian (Argentina)
Blanca Jansuzian was an active member of the Open Experience Theatre and founder of the Latin Talent Agency, which opened doors for many Hispanic-Latin American actors in Toronto. She was a driving force behind developing arts and culture in the Hispanic community and participated in developing the Hispanic Pavilions of Caravan. Her contributions significantly enriched the cultural landscape of the Hispanic community in Canada.
Marek Stefan Malicki, (Canada)
Marek Malicki, a Barrister and Solicitor, drafted the Charter documents of the Canadian Hispanic Congress, witnessed the signing of the Application for the Letters Patent, and submitted them for approval by the Ministry. Mr. Malicki has remained and continues to be pro bono counsel for the CHC.
Objectives of the CHC
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Representation and Advocacy: The CHC represents Hispanic Canadians, advocating for their well-being and ensuring their voices are heard at all government levels.
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Community Coordination: It coordinates the efforts of various Hispanic organizations across Canada, promoting unity and collaborative initiatives.
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Cultural Promotion: The CHC nurtures and strengthens Hispanic cultures, preserving traditions and beliefs while fostering cultural exchange.
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Support for New Immigrants: The organization provides essential support and resources to assist new Hispanic immigrants in adjusting to life in Canada.
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Youth Engagement: It supports youth organizations, emphasizing Hispanic history, culture, and national traditions.
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Awareness and Education: The CHC educates Canadian society about Hispanic people's diverse cultures and contributions, promoting multiculturalism.
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Human Rights Advocacy: The organization defends the rights of Hispanic nations, advocating for their independence and freedom within the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights framework.
The CDC's mission is to enhance the well-being of Hispanic Canadians through active involvement in all aspects of Canadian society and to foster a vibrant and inclusive community.
Detailed Objectives (From the Letters Patent)
- Defend the well-being of Hispanic Canadians: Representing their interests and advocating for their needs.
- Coordinate Hispanic organizations: Ensuring collaborative efforts across Canada.
- Promote full participation In political, economic, social, and cultural life.
- Support cultural preservation: Nurturing Hispanic traditions and beliefs.
- Assist new immigrants: Providing support to adjust to Canadian life.
- Encourage youth involvement: Supporting organizations and associations for Hispanic youth.
- Increase societal awareness: Educating about the diversity and contributions of Hispanic cultures.
- Advocate for autonomy: Persuading the government to recognize the independence of Hispanic communities.
- Promote multiculturalism: Strengthening bonds within the Hispanic community and with other Canadians.
- Defend historical truth: Propagating the historical facts of Hispanic nations.
- Support human rights: Advocating for the independence and freedom of Hispanic nations within the UN framework.
- Maintain independence: Operating free from political influence while maintaining contact with Hispanic nations.
- Fundraising: Receiving donations to support the CHC’s objectives.
The True Size of Canada's Hispanic Community:
A Journey of Discovery and Recognition
Since its inception in 1983, the Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC) has tirelessly advocated for accurate representation and recognition of Canada's Hispanic/Spanish-speaking population. One significant aspect of this advocacy has been the pursuit of accurate census data to reflect the actual size of the Hispanic community.
Historically, Statistics Canada's numbers did not fully capture the diversity and breadth of the Hispanic population. This discrepancy often arose from how individuals of Hispanic descent self-identify, including terms like Hispanics, Latinos, Latin Americans, Ibero-Americans, South Americans, LatinX, and more. Such diversity in self-identification led to an undercounting of the Hispanic population, prompting the CHC to take action.
Census Data Overview
The CHC, recognizing the importance of accurate demographic data, persuaded Statistics Canada to re-tabulate the census numbers using a broader and more inclusive definition of "Hispanic." According to the CHC, "Hispanic" encompasses anyone whose origin or that of their ancestors is from a country where Spanish is one of the official or majority languages. This inclusive definition has revealed a more accurate picture of the Hispanic population in Canada.
Original vs. Re-Tabulated Numbers
Let's explore the original and re-tabulated numbers of Hispanics in Canada from the census years 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021:
2001 Census
Original: 244,000
Re-tabulated: 520,260
2006 Census
Original: 304,245
Re-tabulated: 741,760
2011 Census
Original: 464,000
Re-tabulated: 901,540
2016 Census
Original: 597,000
Re-tabulated: 1,054,670
2021 Census
Original: 743,000
Re-tabulated: 1,193,880
These re-tabulated numbers show that the Hispanic community in Canada is significantly larger than previously reported, with the re-tabulated figures being approximately double the original counts (New Canadian Media) (Canadian Hispanic Congress) (Statistics Canada) (Canadian Hispanic Congress).
Moving Forward
Publishing these accurate numbers in the Canadian Hispanic-Latin American Virtual Museum is a crucial step in ensuring that the contributions and presence of the Hispanic community are recognized and valued. By making these figures accessible, we aim to:
Inform and Educate: Provide a clearer understanding of the Hispanic community's size and influence in Canada.
Promote Inclusion: Encourage organizations, government departments, agencies, corporations, educators, and the media to use these accurate numbers to improve representation and support.
Celebrate Diversity: Highlight the Hispanic community's rich cultural heritage and dynamic contributions to Canada's social, economic, and cultural fabric.
The CHC continues to advocate for the Hispanic community, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions acknowledged. We invite you to explore our virtual museum, learn more about the vibrant Hispanic community, and join us in celebrating the diversity that makes Canada strong.
For more information and to explore detailed census data, visit the Canadian Hispanic Congress and Statistics Canada.
Milestones in Hispanic Heritage Recognition
The Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC) was crucial in establishing Hispanic Heritage Month in Toronto. On April 8, 2013, the City of Toronto officially proclaimed October as Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the significant contributions of the Hispanic community. Hispanic Toronto Councillor Cesar Palacio, on behalf of the city, presented a certificate to Vilma Filici, then President of the CHC, commemorating this first official recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month in Canada by any level of government.
Following this, in 2014, Toronto extended the celebration by officially declaring October as Hispanic Heritage Month. This movement was further endorsed by the Province of Ontario on October 31, 2015, solidifying October as a month to celebrate Hispanic heritage throughout Ontario.
In addition to these efforts, MP Judy Sgro was instrumental in advocating for the recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month at the federal level. On October 26, 2016, she introduced Bill C-317 in the House of Commons, proposing the designation of October as Hispanic Heritage Month across Canada. This bill highlights the contributions of over 900,000 Hispanic Canadians to the country's cultural vibrancy and aims to promote social unity and cultural exchange (Open Parliament Canada) (Parl Canada) (Judy Sgro).
The CHC continues to work to ensure that Hispanic heritage and contributions are acknowledged nationwide. This ongoing effort underscores the CHC's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where the Hispanic community's cultural, economic, and social contributions are celebrated and integrated into the broader Canadian society.
Cultural Contributions
From 1990 to 1995, the CHC's Arts and Culture National Committee, chaired by founding member Blanca Jansuzian, played a pivotal role in promoting Hispanic culture in Canada. During this period, numerous theatre productions, festivals, conferences, and cultural events were organized that highlighted the Hispanic community's rich traditions and artistic expressions.
Among the most notable initiatives was the annual "Los Hispanos Pavilion" for Caravan, a multicultural festival showcasing the best of Hispanic art, culture, and gastronomy. This pavilion drew hundreds of performers and thousands of visitors each year, featuring vibrant performances, traditional dances, and a dedicated art gallery where renowned Hispanic artists displayed their works.
From 1993 to 2004, the CHC sponsored the TV program "Hispanos en Canada," which was broadcast nationally on TLN. The program's main focus was to promote Hispanics and their work across various fields and activities and present information relevant to their lives in Canada (Canadian Hispanic Congress) (Wikipedia).
The CHC also paid tribute to Hispanic Nobel laureates in literature, celebrating their contributions to global culture and recognizing their achievements. Additionally, the CHC provincial chapters in Manitoba and Saskatchewan actively encouraged and organized Hispanic arts and cultural organizations to participate in various multicultural festivals within their provinces, further enriching Canada's cultural mosaic.
The CHC continues to foster and promote the arts in Canada, serving as a vital link in showcasing Hispanic-Latin American culture. It also played a foundational role in creating the Canadian Hispanic-Latin American Virtual Museum, an independent non-profit organization dedicated to showcasing the contributions of Hispanic-Latin Americans to Canada, which continues to grow strong (YouTube).
Educational Initiatives
The Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC) has significantly contributed to educational initiatives, fostering the growth of Spanish-language education and supporting educators in the Hispanic community.
In 1984, Prof. Pastor Valle-Garay, an outspoken participant in the CHC Constitutional Assembly, played a critical role in highlighting educational disparities. He alerted the CHC and its members about the school system's tendency to stream Hispanic high school students toward technical schools instead of universities. The CHC took this issue seriously, working to inform parents about the importance of university education and encouraging them to support their children's academic aspirations.
In the mid-’80s, Patricia Martin, from British Columbia and the CHC’s Director of Youth and Education, organized a dynamic National Youth Conference in Montreal. She was also the author of books aimed at helping people learn Spanish. Her contributions have been instrumental in promoting Spanish literacy and language education across Canada.
One notable milestone was achieved by CHC member organizations of the Saskatchewan chapter, which established a Spanish language school recognized as part of the provincial education system. This school received accreditation from the Department of Education, ensuring that the Spanish language was treated on par with English and French in the province's education system. This accomplishment was a significant step forward for the Hispanic community in Canada.
In the 1990s, Dr. Bernardo Berdichewsky, an anthropologist and professor at Simon Fraser University in BC, served as the president of the CHC. He was an accomplished author who wrote numerous books focusing on the native and Latin American populations in British Columbia. His academic work and leadership within the CHC helped elevate the organization's educational initiatives and advocacy efforts.
Monique Forster, a dedicated researcher and educator, currently (2024) serves as the president of the CHC. She is also a school trustee at the Durham District School Board and the Chair of the Board of Trustees. Her leadership has been pivotal in promoting education within the Hispanic community (DDSB) (Education News Canada).
Dr. Rosario Gomez, a professor of linguistics at the University of Guelph and an author and translator, has also served as the Director of Education within the CHC. Her academic contributions and leadership have been instrumental in advancing the CHC's educational mission.
Throughout the years, educators from various fields have actively participated within the CHC, contributing to its mission of promoting educational opportunities and supporting the academic success of Hispanic students in Canada.
The CHC continues to foster and promote educational initiatives, ensuring that the Hispanic community has access to quality education and opportunities for academic advancement.
PanAm/ParaPan Games Games Participation
The Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC) played a significant role in the 2015 Pan-American Games held in Toronto. The CHC worked closely with TO2015's Directors and Executives and the Hispanic community to facilitate and ensure Hispanics' participation in all areas of the PanAm/ParaPan Games. This involvement included employment, volunteering, procurement, and access to grants and initiatives, showcasing the vibrant engagement of the Hispanic community.
Victor Garcia, then a member of the CHC Board, held a key position as the Director of Community Outreach for the Pan Am Games. His efforts were crucial in integrating and representing the Hispanic community, ensuring their active participation in various aspects of the games (Wikipedia) (Sportsnet.ca).
Eldy Ampuero, who served as the President of the CHC during the games, played a pivotal role in mobilizing the Hispanic community's participation. Her leadership was instrumental in promoting volunteerism and cultural representation, ensuring that the Hispanic community's contributions were recognized and celebrated during the event (Wikipedia).
The CHC's involvement in the Pan American Games exemplified its commitment to fostering inclusion and promoting the talents and capabilities of the Hispanic community within broader Canadian society. The successful participation of Hispanics in the games highlighted the CHC's ongoing efforts to integrate and elevate the community in significant national and international events (Canadian Hispanic Congress).
Initiatives and Efforts to Strengthen and Empower the Community
Since its inception in 1983, the Canadian Hispanic Congress (CHC) has been a cornerstone in promoting the integration and empowerment of Hispanic Canadians. The CHC ensures Hispanics' full participation in Canada's economic, political, social, and cultural life. It supports youth organizations, nurtures Hispanic cultures based on traditions and beliefs, and fosters growth across arts, culture, sports, business, and education.
From 1993 to 2004, the CHC sponsored the national TV program "Hispanos en Canada," which provided content relevant to Hispanic Canadians' lives. The program promoted Hispanic organizations and initiatives, showcased artists, professionals, educators, and entrepreneurs, and informed the community about Canadian policies impacting their lives. This platform often successfully influenced positive changes in government policies.
For 40 years, the CHC has been dedicated to community development and empowerment. Its initiatives have fostered engagement, growth, and development across multiple sectors. The CHC remains committed to enhancing the quality of life for Hispanic Canadians, promoting integration, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic community in Canada.
Key Focus Areas:
- Arts and Culture:
- Organized numerous cultural events, festivals, and conferences celebrating Hispanic heritage and promoting cultural exchange.
- Established key cultural showcases, including annual pavilions and arts festivals.
- Promoted Hispanic arts, culture, and gastronomy through various platforms and events.
- Education:
- Supported Spanish-language education and professional accreditation for degrees obtained abroad.
- Member organizations in Saskatchewan established Spanish language schools that are recognized by provincial education systems.
- Conducted workshops, seminars, and conferences to promote educational opportunities.
- Sports:
- Promoted health and wellness through organized sports events and collaborations with local sports organizations.
- Included several soccer leagues and their member clubs as active participants in promoting physical activity and community engagement.
- Business and Entrepreneurship:
- Supported Hispanic entrepreneurs with workshops, seminars, and networking events.
- Fostered economic development by providing valuable resources for business growth and sustainability.
- Community Services:
- Promoted various support services, including assistance for new immigrants, mental health initiatives, and senior programs.
- Developed programs addressing the diverse needs of the Hispanic community to ensure their well-being.
- Women’s Empowerment:
- Organized conferences and programs focused on the empowerment of women.
- Addressed gender equality and supported women's initiatives through various platforms.
- Civic Engagement:
- Promoted civic participation among Hispanic Canadians, encouraging engagement in the political process at municipal, provincial, and federal levels.
- Conducted voter education campaigns and advocacy efforts to address community issues.
- Supported Hispanic politicians, including Argentina-born Sergio Marchi, who had a distinguished political and diplomatic career. He served as a Federal Member of Parliament for 15 years and held key Cabinet positions: Citizenship and Immigration, Environment, and International Trade. He was also appointed Canadian Ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the UN Agencies in Geneva, serving for five years. He was elected Chairman of the WTO General Council.
- Advocated for community representation in important positions. For instance, when Sergio Marchi became Minister of Immigration, the CHC recommended Felix Mora, a former CHC president and Chilean-born political refugee, to the Immigration and Refugee Board, where he could utilize his expertise.
- Supported all Hispanic politicians serving in various government levels.
- Demographic Representation:
- Advocated for re-tabulating Statistics Canada data to more accurately reflect the demographic reality of the Hispanic community in Canada.
- Ensured census data accurately represents the Hispanic population, influencing policy and resource allocation.
- Immigration:
- Informed the community about policies affecting their lives through the "Hispanos en Canada" TV program, where for ten years, Past CHC President Vilma Filici provided updates on current immigration issues impacting the Hispanic community.
- Submitted briefs to the government, advocating for policies that consider the unique needs of the Hispanic community and suggesting improvements for better service delivery.
- Recognized the contributions of Rev. Elias Morales, a past CHC President, who has been renowned and respected for decades of work assisting Latin American refugees in Canada.
Notable Contributions:
- Program Development:
- Designed and assisted in the development of programs for provincial chapters and organizations.
- Ensured effective service delivery to meet community needs.
- Organizational Growth:
- Achieved the affiliation of over 300 organizations across Canada, strengthening the network of Hispanic community groups.
- Campaigns and Activities:
- Spearheaded initiatives to ensure the full participation of Hispanics in Canada's economic, political, social, and cultural life.
- Conducted workshops, seminars, conferences, and festivals in various cities to support community development and leisure.
- Policy Contributions:
- Contributed to the development and implementation of policies favoring the Hispanic community.
- Focused on supporting vulnerable groups like youth, women, and seniors, along with advocacy in immigration and social policies.
- Community Events:
- Hosted and supported various events aimed at enhancing community engagement and cultural celebration.
- Provided platforms for the Hispanic community to showcase their heritage and contributions.
Through these comprehensive initiatives, the CHC has played and will continue to play a vital role in promoting the development and integration of the Hispanic community in Canada, ensuring a vibrant and dynamic future for Hispanic Canadians.