The inaugural class of inductees into the Iowa Latino Hall of Fame is being introduced. The first three members are long-time activists within the state.
The Iowa Latino Hall of Fame was established earlier this year to honor Latinos who have made significant cultural, social, political and economic contributions to the state.
Sonia Reyes-Snyder is executive officer of the Office of Latino Affairs.
“It is very important for us to acknowledge the contributions Latinos have made to the state and to the Latino community,” she says.
Reyes-Snyder, says the first three members serve as role models for the younger generation
“One of the main things is to encourage our Latino youth to look at different careers or different activism in Iowa, and to encourage them to stay here,” she says.
Due to be inducted October 7during ceremonies at the Iowa Historical Building are Mary Campos of Des Moines, Ila Plasencia of West Des Moines and Henry Vargas of Davenport.