Utah’s Latino Life and Legacy

We’re diving into the story of Latinos in Utah!

From railroad laborers and miners in the early 1900s to thriving entrepreneurs, educators, artists and political leaders today, Latinos are rewriting Utah’s cultural and economic landscape. Explore the challenges and successes that define the Hispanic community in Utah. How does Latino culture shape Utah’s past, present, and future?

Two Latino Utahns join hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald to discuss Utah’s Latino life and legacy.

As Director of the SLC Department of Economic Development, Lorena Riffo-Jensen works to ensure the local economy is supported and retention and expansion of local companies. She also works with educational departments to funnel students into jobs.

Armando Solorzano, Ph.D. of Ethnic Studies at the University of Utah, wants to make sure the history of Mexican Americans in Utah is shared and remembered. In his book, “Recuerdo, Celebración, y Esperanza: Latinos in Utah goes into the history of Mexican Americans in Utah”, Solorzano writes: “Erasure is a form of violence. Recognition is it’s healing. Remembering is an act of justice.”

Join Roots, Race & Culture in remembering, recognizing, and celebrating the history and future of Latinos in Utah.