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The one-of-a-kind touring exhibition features over 100 artifacts.

(Sarasota, FL, October 21, 2004) – The Latino Heritage Museum (LHM) presents “Latino Heritage 101” National Tour 2004, a multimedia tribute to Latinos, Hispanic scientists, inventors and other historical Hispanic pioneers, at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee on Thursday, October 28. The exhibition, in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, will be open from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Westside Student Center and the Jane Bancroft Cook Library on the bayfront campus, 5700 N. Tamiami Trail. The free event is sponsored by the Office of Student Services and Student Affairs. For directions or additional information, call Glory Hernandez, 941-359-4263.

The New York City-based museum is the first of its kind and was founded over nine years ago in Massachusetts. It has been touring nationally for seven years. The Latino Heritage Museum was the vision of Jaime Ince, chief curator, who saw it as a means to develop racial pride, promote racial understanding, and motivate others to learn more about this fast-growing demographic group.

The exhibition features over 100 artifacts that highlight the contributions of Latinos in the fields of science, aerospace, communication, medicine, agriculture, transportation and engineering. It also represents pioneers in politics, education, entertainment, sports, media, cinema, and literature. Video documentaries round out the presentation, highlighting achievements in history not normally taught in school. Many can identify with the role models featured, and Ince believes that utilizing examples of ordinary people making extraordinary contributions to the world benefits many, especially young people.

“This history is very important, not just to glorify people or facts,” said Ince, “but to motivate young people, and to inspire them. This exhibit is for everyone – all age groups and ethnic backgrounds. It graciously complements all science and American and world history curricula, while promoting positive images in those who seek to learn about the discoveries of these great men and women.”

Some significant inventions by Hispanic inventors include the first submarine, the gyroplane (helicopter), the adjustable wrench, a reversible motor and more.

Hispanic refers to Spanish-speaking people in the United States of any race. There are almost 40 million Hispanics nationally, representing 13.7 percent of the total population, not including 3.9 million in Puerto Rico. Population projections indicate that by 2050, the national Hispanic population will have reached 24 percent.