“Nature and water are part of Latino history, ancestry, traditions, and lifestyle,” said Maite Arce, president and CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation. “The Mississippi River is not only a lifeline for the U.S. economy; it's also a lifeline for the livelihoods, wellbeing, and cultural heritage of many thousands of Latinos.”

63% of Latino survey respondents said they frequently or occasionally visit the Mississippi River for walking, biking, or hiking at parks or trails.

In this blog, we uplift the Latino community and their perspectives, concerns, and support relating to the Mississippi River's health, threats, impact on local communities, and conservation initiatives. Hispanic Access Foundation's first-ever was released on August 29, 2024, and shows that Latino's concern and support for the protection of the Mississippi River are overwhelmingly clear, as demonstrated in the project's factsheet below.

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To see full sized factsheet PDF click here  l  Para ver la hoja informativa en español, haga clic aquí.

The poll's results reveal a profound connection between the Latino community and the health of their natural environment, underscoring critical concerns about pollution affecting their beloved rivers, lakes, and streams.

Alarmingly, 74% of respondents view the pollution of these vital waterways as a very or extremely serious problem, highlighting an urgent call for action to combat water pollution, climate change, and air quality issues.

The Hispanic Access Foundation's news release continues, "Considering how ingrained the Mississippi River is in the Latino way of life, it is no surprise that they support river conservation initiatives and further action by elected officials and Congress. 59% of Latinos surveyed feel that taking action to restore the Mississippi River should be a very or extremely high priority for the state."

This poll reflects not just statistical data but a heartfelt plea from the Latino community, which recognizes that the well-being of their families, traditions, and cultural heritage is intrinsically tied to the health of the Mississippi River, inspiring a collective commitment to its preservation for generations to come.

“These poll results are undeniable evidence of the importance of conserving the Mississippi River for Latinos,” said Vanessa Muñoz, Hispanic Access Foundation’s Waterways Manager. “River conservation initiatives would have far better results if they made a greater effort to engage and help remove the barriers that impede Latinos from joining and becoming passionate river advocates.”

The health of the Mississippi River is vital not only to the ecosystem it supports but also to the cultural and economic fabric of local communities, particularly within the Latino population that has historically relied on its resources. Keeping this majestic river clean is essential for preserving the rich traditions and livelihoods of those who call its banks home. Pollution threatens the aquatic life that sustains fishing practices, the recreational opportunities that bring families together, and the natural beauty that inspires generations. By protecting this precious waterway, we ensure that it continues to serve as a source of strength and inspiration, fostering a deep connection between communities and their environment, and paving the way for a sustainable future where both the river and its people thrive in harmony.

Latinos gathered outside a government building during Latino Advocacy Week. Photo via the Latino Voices of Mississippi River Poll 2024 presentation by Hispanic Access Foundation.

Time and time again, the Mississippi River brings people together. Protecting and caring for the River unites us as a people, regardless of race, ethnicity, economic status, or political views. We strongly believe anyone can positively impact the River's people, land, water, and wildlife. We also celebrate the fact that there are many ways in which people and communities connect with and take action for our national treasure, the Mississippi River!

Want to learn more? Visit the Hispanic Access Foundation's Latino Voices of the Mississippi River Poll webpage for many resources provided in English and Spanish, including a presentation, recorded webinar, poll numbers, statistics, and a factsheet.