The Conference HispanicLatino Ministry

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The Conference Hispanic-Latino Ministry

• Rev. Sonia Ely Ortigoza
• Conference Coordinator to Hispanic-Latino Ministry

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A Great Multitud
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A Diverse Multitude

• There is significant cultural diversity among
  Hispanics
• Country of Origin - from 21 different nations
• Hispanic are not a homogenous group
• The term Hispanic does not designate race rather
  a Spanish-speaking ancestry
• Latino/Latina

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• Hispanics represent all social classes,
  occupations, and levels of acculturation and
  color.
• They are Asian, indigenous, European, African and
  often a mixture of two or more of these groups

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• Hispanics come from a variety of religious
  backgrounds
• Catholic, Pentecostal, African-Caribbean
  religions, indigenous religions, and mainline
  Protestant denominations.

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WHY SOUTH CAROLINA?

• SC military bases
• 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act
• South Carolinas economy (Jobs!)
• Industrial strategies (Recruiting workers)
• Migration networks/channels
• Low cost of living
• Favorable climate
• South Carolinas relative safety/tranquility
• Source USC Study

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The Hispanic Realityin SC

• Two-thirds of the Hispanics trace their ancestry
  in Mexico
• Two-thirds of newcomers are from Vera Cruz region
  of Mexico
• Spanish Conquers
• Africans Slaves

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Characteristics of Mexican Population

• Average Education 7 years
• Industries supported by Mexican workers
• Food
• Construction
• Landscaping
• Agriculture
• Average salary 1,200 per month
• Most pressing problems
• Lack of English language skills
• Lack of transportation
• Discrimination
• Need for better paying jobs
• Affordable health care
• Source USC Study

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Census Estimates, 2002
Source Brenda Vander Mey and Ashley Harris,
Latino Populations in South Carolina 1990-2002
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Support mission initiatives among
Hispanics/Latinos with prayers, volunteers,
and/or financial contributions.
I have came that they may have life, and have it
in all of its fullness. I am the good shepherd.
The good Shepard lays down his life for the
sheep. John 10.10
Sortigoza_at_umcsc.org