The Hispanic and Latine population in Massachusetts is an incredibly diverse and vibrant community, representing a broad spectrum of cultures, traditions, and histories. From music and food to arts and festivals, the cultural and social landscape of our state is continually enriched with influences from many different countries, including Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Brazil, Venezuela, Mexico, and Colombia, among others. This diversity is not only a source of pride but also a critical asset for the state’s economic progress. The contributions made by Hispanic and Latine communities to the economic life of Massachusetts are evident in their growing impact across industries and civic engagement.
According to the Boston Indicators report Latinos in Greater Boston, the Hispanic and Latine population in Greater Boston has several key strengths that bolster their role in the region’s future. One of the most notable assets is the community’s youthfulness. Over 30% of the Hispanic and Latine population is under 18, compared to 15% of the white population. This younger demographic signifies a growing, energetic workforce that can drive the state’s economy for decades to come.
Another important asset is the entrepreneurial spirit within the Hispanic and Latine community. There are approximately 40,000 Hispanic and Latine-owned businesses in Massachusetts, contributing significantly to local economies. These businesses play a critical role in neighborhood revitalization and job creation.
Bilingualism is another vital strength. The ability to speak multiple languages enhances the Hispanic and Latine population’s value in the workforce and provides cultural bridges within communities. Bilingual workers are highly sought after in industries like healthcare, education, and customer service, where the ability to communicate in multiple languages is a necessity.
The report also highlights the rising civic engagement among the Hispanic and Latine population. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in voter turnout, political representation, and leadership roles taken on by members of this community. This increased participation in civic life demonstrates a growing influence and the potential for shaping policies that benefit not only the Hispanic and Latine population but the state as a whole.
These assets—youth, entrepreneurship, bilingualism, and civic engagement—position the Hispanic and Latine population as a vital force in Massachusetts’ future. As the community continues to grow, the state’s success will increasingly be tied to the opportunities and inclusion available to this dynamic and multifaceted group of people. By continuing to celebrate and support this community, the state can harness these strengths to build a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.
The growing voting power of Hispanic and Latine communities is also evident at the national level, where their influence is increasingly shaping electoral outcomes. According to data analyzed by the U.S. Immigration Policy Center and released by the National Partnership for New Americans, since the last presidential election, an estimated 3.5 million voting-age adults have become newly naturalized citizens nationwide. One of the key demographics of this group is that they are racially and ethnically diverse, with 13.1% of all naturalized citizens originating from Mexico, followed by India (6.8%), the Philippines (5.3%), Cuba (4.3%), and the Dominican Republic (3.8%). Newly naturalized citizens are a powerful voting bloc.
Hispanic and Latine voters specifically are set to play an even more prominent role in national elections. According to the Pew Research Center, Hispanic and Latine eligible voters in the U.S. now make up 15% of the total electorate, a significant increase since the 2020 election. Of the approximately 35 million Hispanic and Latine eligible voters, about 62% are of Mexican origin, while Puerto Ricans, Cubans, Salvadorans, and Dominicans make up other significant portions of the electorate. These voters are particularly concentrated in key battleground states such as Texas, Florida, and Arizona, where their voices can have a decisive impact on electoral outcomes.
This growing voting power underscores the importance of policies that address the concerns of Hispanic and Latine communities, not only in Massachusetts but across the nation. Their increasing civic engagement is a testament to the influence this community will continue to wield in shaping the future of our country.