Norton Hosts Hispanic Entrepreneurs, Capping Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) hosted leaders of Hispanic-owned businesses in the District of Columbia today, capping several events Norton hosted celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15th to October 15th. According to American University's Latino Immigrant Entrepreneurs study, Latino-owned businesses nationally have more than doubled since 2002, and from 2012 to 2015 increased at 15 times the national rate, although immigrants often face barriers to employment due to language proficiency, education and training, as well as recognized credentials, which often leads to self-employment. Most importantly, the study notes that the success of a small business depends in large part on entrepreneurs' access to financial and social capital, which in many immigrant communities could be lacking. In the meeting, entrepreneurs and small business owners shared their ideas on ways the federal government can support minority-owned businesses. Norton has previously introduced legislation to require that federal agencies report on their advertising spending with small disadvantaged businesses as well as businesses owned by women and minorities. Norton has also successfully added similar language to 11 of 12 House-passed Appropriations bills for FY 2020.

"Hispanic Americans in the District have a thriving small business community that adds to the rich diversity of the District," Norton said. "The District's Hispanic population also continues to grow each year, demonstrating families are moving to the District and contributing everywhere in the nation's capital. It was an honor to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with residents these past few weeks, and I am grateful we could showcase the contributions that make the Hispanic community in the District unique."