MPR Archive presents a sampling of stories rooted in the Hispanic cultural experience within the state and region. Highlights include the entrepreneurial spirit in South Minneapolis & St. Paul’s West Side, the arts scene of Teatro del Pueblo, the voices of the migrant workers in the Red River Valley, and the music of Mariachi Flor y Canto, amongst other glimpses into Minnesota’s Hispanic past.
Please note: Most content related to this topic that is contemporary or created after 2005 can be found on our main content pages of MPR News, YourClassical MPR, The Current, APM Reports, and Marketplace.
May 23, 2012 - As part of Minnesota Mix series, MPR’s David Cazares reports on Malamanya, a Twin Cities band that plays traditional Cuban songs. Cazares interviews lead singer Adriana Rimpel and band leader Tony Schreiner.
December 27, 2012 - On this Daily Circuit segment, MPR’s Marianne Combs presents a collections of interviews from local Latino artists who share their views and creative experiences in Minnesota. Interviewees are Susana DeLeon, lawyer and director of an Aztec cultural troupe that performs traditional dances connected to the environment; recording artist Maria Isa; author Sandra Benitez; and photographer Xavier Tavera.
November 13, 2018 - MPR’s Riham Feshir reports on Long Prairie, a small central Minnesota town that has seen an influx of immigrants which has given the area new life.
October 21, 2019 - MPR’s Riham Feshir profiles Andrea Duarte-Alonso, who has been documenting the stories of immigrants and their children in southwest Minnesota.
August 27, 2021 - MPR’s Vicki Adame profiles Gustavo Romero, chef and owner of Nixta in northeast Minneapolis. Romero opened the tortilleria in July 2020 because he saw a necessity to bring a better tortilla to Minneapolis and the state. He stays close to tradition to produce authentic flavors.
April 19, 2023 - MPR’s Alex Cipolle reports on “Latin Art in Minnesota: Conversations and What’s Next” a hardcover art tome featuring in-depth interviews with 12 Minnesota artists who have roots in Central and South America, from Mexico to Chile. William “Billy” Gustavo Franklin edited the book, which explores their art, personal journeys, and conversations about identity, aiming to bridge gaps and inspire a wider audience to appreciate Latino art.