Previously known as the Association hispanique et latino-am\u00e9ricaine de Boucherville et de la Rive-Sud, in 2023 the Association hispano-qu\u00e9b\u00e9coise de la Mont\u00e9r\u00e9gie (AHQM) was officially founded by a committee of six individuals of diverse origins: Chile, Peru and Quebec. The catalyst for the creation of the Association was Luis Zuniga, a Boucherville resident of Chilean origin, subsequent to the adoption by Quebec\u2019s National Assembly of Bill 1094, which proclaimed the month of October to be Hispanic Heritage Month. In September of 2022, Mr. Zuniga had already organized an initial event in Boucherville showcasing Latino culture.<\/p>\n
Aiming to \u201ccreate synergies between individuals from Hispanic cultural backgrounds and the host community of Quebec\u201d, Mr. Zuniga and the committee decided to form an association. \u00a0The AHQM seeks to be a \u201cmeeting place where Quebecer, Hispanic and Latin American cultural richness blend, and where, through sharing and exchanges, new ties develop\u201d.\u00a0 To achieve that, the Association works to build awareness of Latin American cultures. It has also contributed to the creation of a friendship and sharing network that brings together individuals from Latin America, Spain and the Mont\u00e9r\u00e9gie, and hopes to integrate elements of Latino culture and history into Quebec\u2019s heritage.<\/p>\n
Every autumn, during Hispanic Heritage Month, the AHMQ puts out the welcome mat for anyone interested in discovering and celebrating Latin American culture and food. Dance, music, food stands and information kiosks highlighting the countries of that region are on offer. As well, various Mont\u00e9r\u00e9gie organizations are on hand to explain the services they provide. On September 30, 2023, the gathering drew more than 260 people. \u00a0Definitely something to build on!<\/p>\n