In 1976, Otto Merida and 50 forward-thinking business owners did something radical. They gathered to build a future that did not yet exist for Nevada’s Hispanic community. They weren't just forming an organization; they were demanding a seat at the table.
Today, that organization, the Latin Chamber of Commerce of Nevada, Inc., has grown into a powerhouse, representing more than 1,500 members and standing as one of the most influential business organizations in Southern Nevada. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary during Hispanic Heritage Month, we aren't simply acknowledging an organization—we are honoring a legacy of persistence.
For Peter Guzman, the Chamber’s current president, this milestone is far more than an organizational achievement. It is a deeply personal tribute. "None of us stand where we are today by accident," Peter reflects. He speaks with reverence about Otto Merida, a man who spent decades knocking on locked doors and dismantling barriers. "Because he was willing to open those doors, I have had the privilege of walking through them."
Peter understands that a 50-year milestone offers a rare vantage point. It’s a place where you can appreciate the foundation built by those who came before you while looking toward the horizon of what lies ahead. Rather than focusing solely on the past, he is using this anniversary as a launchpad for the future.
The Chamber recently introduced LCC UN, Unified Nevada, an ambitious initiative designed to connect local entrepreneurs directly into the global marketplace. The goal is to move beyond the traditional role of business advocacy, positioning Nevada not only as a great place to start a company but also as a premier gateway for international commerce.
"The 50th anniversary is the perfect time to look beyond celebrating our history and focus on shaping our future," Peter says. "Today's economy is global. Small businesses now have the capacity to reach international markets, attract foreign investment, and build partnerships that span borders."
For our readers here in Summerlin, the Chamber’s impact is visible throughout our community. Peter points to the Las Vegas Ballpark as one example of that impact and a source of pride. "That stadium was a major priority for us," he notes. "We made sure we were heard before the first shovel ever hit the ground."
Looking toward the next 50 years, Peter’s vision is clear: the Chamber must lead the charge rather than react to it. He is committed to expanding access to capital, championing workforce development, and helping local businesses integrate modern technology and AI.
It’s a mission rooted in responsibility. "If Otto Merida’s generation built the foundation, our generation has the responsibility to build the future," Peter explains. "My hope is that 50 years from now, the next president will look back and say we had the vision and courage to prepare Nevada’s business community for a new era of prosperity."
For Hispanic-owned small businesses in our area that have not yet connected with the Chamber, Peter’s message is clear: Membership is not an exclusive club reserved for large enterprises. It’s an open invitation to anyone ready to grow. "The Latin Chamber is here for you, no matter where you are in your business journey," he says. "Come to one event. Meet our members. Experience the energy firsthand."
Fifty years after those first 50 businesses joined forces, the Latin Chamber of Commerce is proving that it is just getting started. The next chapter isn’t simply about growth; it’s about setting a global standard for what a community can achieve when it moves forward together.