Each year from September 15 to October 15, the nation comes together to celebrate Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month, a time to honor the history, culture, and countless contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans who continue to shape the story of the United States.
The observance begins in mid-September to align with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American nations. On September 15, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua obtained their independence. Mexico follows on September 16, and Chile on September 18.
What began in 1968 as a weeklong recognition established by President Lyndon B. Johnson was later expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 into a full month of celebration. Today, Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month serves as a vibrant tribute to the resilience, diversity, and achievements of Hispanic communities across the country.
As of 2023, 63.7 million citizens claim to have Hispanic or Latino roots, making up over 19 percent of the United States population, up 3 percent from 2010, making them the fastest-growing group in the country.
Utah is home to over 3.5 million Hispanic and Latinx Utahns, making up 16 percent of the state population. With the state of Utah once being a part of Mexico, the Hispanic connections run deep in our history and our future.
Within the Real Salt Lake and Utah Royals FC organization, ten Hispanic/Latin nationalities are represented through players, coaches, and staff.
Currently, the head coach of Real Salt Lake Pablo Mastroeni is Hispanic, hailing from Argentina.
RSL Players of Hispanic/Latino descent
- Brayan Vera - Colombia
- Diego Luna - Mexico
- Braian Ojeda - Paraguay
- Pablo Ruiz - Argentina
- Jesus Barea - Spain
- Rafael Cabral - Brazil
- Rwan Cruz - Brazil
Utah Royals Players of Hispanic/Latino Descent
- Ana Tejada - Spain
- Claudia Zornoza - Spain
- Nuria Rábano - Spain
- Aisha Solórzano - Guatemala
- Alex Loera - Mexico
Additionally, the front office is similarly representative of the Hispanic/Latin American landscape, with employees who have lineage to Colombia.
Utah Royals' Hispanic and Latino Heritage Night, much like the purpose of the country’s celebratory month, will serve to honor those from the Hispanic and Latino community and recognize their contributions to help create the Club into what it is today.
