Que Onda Magazine joins the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Since its founding in 1993, it proudly became Houston’s first Spanish-language newspaper, created by two Mexican immigrants: Lilia Esparza and the late Jose G. Esparza. After 32 years, it has evolved into a successful bilingual magazine backed by sponsors and media partners such as ABC13, reaching the community through print, digital, and social platforms.
Hispanic Heritage Month began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to a full month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. It is observed from September 15 to October 15 to coincide with the independence days of Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
The celebration honors the culture, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. Today, it includes festivals, performances, educational programs, and community events that recognize the enduring influence of Latinos on the nation’s history, identity, and progress.
Que Onda Magazine remains committed to highlighting stories of success and perseverance that reflect the heart of the community. This Hispanic Heritage Month, the magazine reaffirms its mission to give voice to Latinos in Houston and to keep roots, traditions, and cultural pride alive for future generations.
Prominent Latino Figures in Houston
Houston—one of the most diverse cities in the country—has a Hispanic population that makes up nearly 45% of residents, shaping the city’s culture, politics, and economy.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo made history as the first woman and Latina to hold the post at age 27. Sheriff Ed González is a respected law-enforcement voice, while Commissioners Lesley Briones and Adrian García strengthen Hispanic representation in county government. Elizabeth Brock González, chair of METRO’s board, oversees one of the nation’s largest transit systems as the first Hispanic woman in that role, and Dr. Laura Murillo, president of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, continues to elevate Latino business leadership.
On the city council, Mario Castillo, Julián Ramírez, and Joaquín Martínez help shape municipal policy. Latino athletes also fuel Houston’s championship pride: Astros stars José Altuve (Venezuela), Carlos Correa (Puerto Rico), Yordan Álvarez (Cuba), and Mauricio Dubón (Honduras—the first MLB player born and raised there) have all contributed to World Series titles and inspire future generations.
Global Latino Stars
Latino artists continue to influence world culture, carrying their roots onto the global stage:
- Lin-Manuel Miranda – Puerto Rican–American playwright who redefined Broadway with Hamilton and In the Heights.
- Shakira – Colombian superstar blending Latin rhythms with pop, performing at the World Cup and Super Bowl.
- Daddy Yankee – Puerto Rican “King of Reggaeton,” bringing the genre worldwide.
- Bad Bunny – Puerto Rican record-breaker proving Spanish-language music can dominate global charts.
- Karol G – Colombian icon empowering women in urban music and expanding reggaeton’s reach.
- Zoe Saldaña – Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage, star of Avatar and Guardians of the Galaxy.
- Anya Taylor-Joy – Miami-born to Argentine parents, bringing Latin identity to acclaimed Hollywood roles.
- John Leguizamo – Colombian-American actor using comedy and film to spotlight Latino stories and demand representation.
Hispanic Heritage Month Events in Houston
Que Onda Magazine’s Fiesta Mexicana
Sept. 17, 2025 – 6–10 p.m.
Celebrating 32 years of community engagement, Que Onda hosts a Fiesta Mexicana with authentic Mexican food, mariachi performances, folkloric dance, and El Grito Mexicano to honor both Mexico’s Independence Day and Houston’s first Spanish-language publication.
Panel Discussion: Roots and Resilience – Elevating Latino Voices
Sept. 20, 2025 – 5:30 p.m.
An inspiring conversation with three Afro-Latino artists exploring how their heritage enriches music, dance, literature, and visual arts with powerful stories and rhythms.
Discovery Green: Ballet Folklórico and Mariachis
Sept. 20, 2025 – 7–10 p.m.
Experience traditional Mexican dances, mariachi music, and indigenous traditions with more than 70 international performers, plus a Latin market of food and crafts.
The Salsa Festival
Sept. 21, 2025 – 1–10 p.m.
A full day of live Latin music, folkloric performances, and international cuisine that celebrates cultural unity and preserves vibrant traditions. Tickets start at $12.
Stay informed with the latest cultural events in Houston with Que Onda Magazine.