Wind Creek to host Hispanic Heritage Celebration supporting local nonprofit

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — A local nonprofit organization will celebrate Hispanic culture and community resilience with an evening of music, dance and cultural performances on September 27th at the Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, celebrating the growing influence of Latino residents in the Lehigh Valley.

The event falls during National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from September 15 to October 15 to recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic Americans. The observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded to a full month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.

SISU, a cultural organization dedicated to fostering resilience and empowerment, will host its Hispanic Heritage Celebration from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. in the Monocacy Room. The event aims to unite the region’s diverse Hispanic populations while supporting programs for vulnerable community members.

“It’s actually a crucial moment we’re in right now. And as Hispanics, we need to be together and support one another because times are tough right now,” said Isa Sanchez, founder of SISU Empowering Others.

The Lehigh Valley has experienced significant demographic changes, with Hispanics representing a substantial and growing portion of the population. In Allentown, Hispanics comprise approximately 54% of the city’s residents as of the 2020 Census.

The event will feature local Hispanic talent performing beloved traditional songs, including “Boy Subiendo” by Pena Libre, “Bomba Ay Que Rica Es,” “Plena de San Antonio,” and “Preciosa” by Marc Anthony. Attendees can expect a mix of salsa, merengue and reggae music, along with an open dance floor, delicious food, and a photo booth.

SISU offers programming that focuses on mentorship, advocacy, transportation, and housing assistance. The organization’s MATH program addresses critical community needs, particularly for Hispanic residents navigating language barriers and complex social services.

“We want to make sure that we are here to support one another in times of need and difficulty, you have somewhere to go, that you could feel comfortable and not judged,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez, who has worked in community service for over 20 years, established the organization after experiencing firsthand the challenges that Hispanic residents face in accessing resources and navigating government systems.

This marks the organization’s expanded celebration following a “Culture and Community” event held in May of this year at The Ice House. Sanchez said previous events have received positive feedback from community members who praised the attention to detail and cultural authenticity.

“I just have the passion to give to others and empower one another,” said Sanchez.

The celebration will feature several community partners and include raffles and presentations highlighting SISU’s community impact stories. All proceeds from the event will support the organization’s ongoing programs, which serve the Hispanic community and other vulnerable populations.

Tickets are available through the organization’s website at buytickets.at/sisuempoweringothers. Sponsorship and vendor opportunities are still available for local businesses seeking to support Hispanic community initiatives.

For more information about the Hispanic Heritage Celebration or SISU Empowering Others’ programs, contact the organization through their ticketing website or Facebook page.