WASHINGTON, D.C., September 2, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) enthusiastically celebrates the Smithsonian Board of Regents’ historic vote designating the landmark Arts and Industries Building as the permanent home for the National Museum of the American Latino. This monumental decision bypasses years of legislative delays and secures a prime, prominent space on the National Mall to honor Hispanic contributions to the fabric of America.

Ramiro A. Cavazos, President & CEO of the USHCC, issued the following congratulatory statement:

“Today marks a historic triumph for the more than 70 million Latinos who drive the economic, cultural, and entrepreneurial engine of the United States. For more than five centuries, Hispanics have been part of the history of the land that would become the United States, long before our Nation’s founding. Our story is not separate from the American story; Latino history is American history. By securing the iconic Arts and Industries Building, the Smithsonian is giving our community’s legacy the first-class, permanent stage it has earned.

From an economic standpoint, this choice is both visionary and pragmatic. Retrofitting an existing Smithsonian landmark allows us to move forward toward building a world-class institution while making use of an extraordinary historic asset. U.S. Latino’s contribute $4.4 trillion to the nation’s GDP, underscoring the extraordinary economic power and impact of our community. We are proud that our history will now be anchored in the heart of our nation’s capital.

 The USHCC congratulates the Smithsonian Board of Regents, the museum’s leadership, and the countless advocates who fought for decades to make this dream a reality. We stand ready to mobilize our network of over 260 local Hispanic Chambers of Commerce and millions of business owners to support the fundraising, corporate partnerships, and construction efforts required to open these doors.”

 By converting an existing Smithsonian asset rather than building anew, this decision eliminates decade-long land approval hurdles and slashes massive construction overhead to focus investments directly into world-class design, job creation and a cultural institution that can serve as a powerful tourism and economic driver for Washington, D.C. l. To sustain this economic catalyst and celebrate Hispanic innovation, the USHCC calls upon corporate partners, policymakers, and community leaders to mobilize robust funding to finalize this vital cultural anchor.

 About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC)

The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is America’s largest small business advocacy group, representing over 260 local chambers and business associations nationwide and partners with hundreds of major American corporations. Annually, more than $4.4 trillion GDP is contributed by U.S. Latinos, forming a vital economic force. The USHCC is dedicated to supporting 70 million Latinos nationwide. The USHCC actively promotes the economic growth, development, and interests of more than five million Hispanic-owned businesses.