Did You Know...

Hispanics, most of Mexican heritage, are Oregon’s largest minority, making up 8% of the population. In fact, Oregon has the eighth largest Mexican-American population in the United States.

Hispanic girls look forward to being Sweet Fifteen, not Sweet Sixteen. Turning 15 marks a girl’s transition to womanhood. A lavish party, the quinceañera, is thrown in her honor. Many of Portland’s Mexican clothing stores specialize in quinceañera gowns and gifts.

Manuel Izquierdo is one of Portland’s most renowned artists. Look for his bronze sculpture “The Dreamer” at Pettygrove Park, S.W. 3rd Ave. and Market St. The sculpture gallery at the Pacific North-west College of Art (1241 N.W. Johnson St.; 503.226.4391) is named for him.

Teatro Milago, “Miracle Theater,” (425 S.E. 6th Ave.; 503.236.7253) is Oregon’s only Hispanic theater company. Since 1992 it has been performing the works of Spanish-language playwrights in bi-lingual productions. It has two touring companies (one for dance) that travel throughout the Western United States.

Alberto Salazar and Rudy Chapa, former University of Oregon track teammates, are both honored in the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame Museum (321 S.W. Salmon; 503.227.7466). Salazar set one world and six U.S. records and won three straight New York City marathons. Chapa broke Steve Prefontaine’s records in the 3,000 and 5,000 meters.