INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — In celebration of Black History Month 2024, WISH-TV Contributor Gloria Jimenez provides a comprehensive outlook on the significant contributions of Afro-Latinos to American culture.

According to Pew Research Center, about 6 million Hispanics in the United States self-identify as Afro-Latinos; the country of Brazil boasts the largest population of those outside of Africa.

“There is no official category on the Census, but these Afro-Latinos have African ancestry along with their Latino heritage and live a different experience and have different contributions,” Jimenez said.

Spanish-speaking Africans were present in North America before the arrival of the English settlers and have since greatly contributed to American history.

“A lot of the rhythms like salsa, bachata and all that…derives popularity from the Afro-Latino community within countries like Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic,” Jimenez said. “Even the food we eat today comes from that community in those countries.”