¡FELIZ MES NACIONAL DE LA HERENCIA HISPANA! (HAPPY NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH). The way we celebrated Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month 2020 was very different from previous celebrations. Virtual events ranging from panel discussions highlighting the vastness of Latino culture and achievements, to salsa and bachata performances and lessons being taught via zoom, have been just incredible. During their recent, 38th annual Statewide Conference (and first virtual event during that time), The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey highlighted another area in which the Latinx population has unfortunately made significant contributions: The problem gambling area.
Problem gambling is very much a public health risk in the Latino/Hispanic communities. During a conference workshop, we provided a platform through which those in attendance learned techniques with which they could bring awareness, resources, and eventually assistance to those families in need of such assistance.
Hispanic Heritage Month’s traditional celebrations include events which focus on Latin food, music, dance, film, costumes, cultural traditions and much more. These social and family events are a perfect time for us to also bring to light some of the issues which plagues this community year-round. Ensuring that individuals, families, and communities are well informed of the resources available to them in their municipalities, schools, churches, etc., can make a world of difference.
We acknowledge, celebrate, and embrace the rich contributions of the Latino/Hispanic individual. The fact is we are everywhere. As the author Jimmy Smits expressed: “The Latino population has become such a presence. We are part of the American tapestry in a very profound way, in every area you can think of, and are very significant in popular culture.” Este año ha sido muy difícil para muchas comunidades latinas en los Estados Unidos. El COVID-19 ha afectado de manera desproporcionada a los hispanos en este país. Por eso es más importante que nunca animar a estas comunidades y reconocer el impacto positive que tienen. Sin olvidar los que sufren en silencio con la adicción por los juegos de azar. (This year has been very difficult for many Latino communities in the United States. COVID-19 has disproportionately affected Hispanics in this country. That’s why it’s more important than ever to encourage these communities and recognize the positive impact they have. Not forgetting those who suffer in silence with gambling addiction.)
We at the Council of Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, are here to support our neighbors and friends of the Latinx community beyond the end of this Hispanic Heritage Month 2020. We are here 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Problem gambling is a treatable disease which no one has struggle through alone…If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call: (Si usted o alguien que conoce tiene un problema con los juegos de azar y quiere ayuda, llame:) 800-GAMBLER today and LET’S START A CONVERSATION! (¡EMPECEMOS UNA CONVERSACIÓN!)
Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER
Visit us on the Web: www.800gambler.org