I am majoring in Spanish, theatre arts, and media & communications with a minor in musical theatre. I am the president of ARIEL (Latinx club) on Drew’s campus and hold various other leadership positions. I am Mexican-American and my parents are from Mexico, Puebla (specifically, San Juan Huiluco). I am a first-generation college student and the oldest in a family of three (I have two younger sisters).
Hispanic Heritage Month provides even more exposure to our Latinx community to honor, learn, and allows an open space to ask questions. During Hispanic Heritage Month, I am able to spread my “Latinismo” celebrate my ancestors, and acknowledge those who came before me. We should take this month to support Latinx authors, professors, non-profit organizations, students, veterans, and more. Learn how this community has made a difference in our society and how they’ve been driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America. In efforts to learn more about this community, you’ll discover the values, independence, and self-reliance each person holds and uncover unspoken stories/experiences through our curiosity and asking
questions.
I am proud to be a part of the Latinx community and will never forget where I came from. Even through the struggles, I constantly remind myself of something my parents told my sisters and me growing up: “Con paciencia y fe, sí se puede”(with patience and faith, yes you can). In addition, we were taught to value what we have/been given and never take it for granted. I’m grateful to have graduated from high school and further my education in college/university. Seeing my parents go through multiple odd jobs/part-time jobs/full-time jobs, it empowers me to create a life full of opportunities for myself, and my family, and continue the legacy ahead of me.
In closing, this month we want to remember this. “No particular race is the enemy. Ignorance is the enemy” – George Lopez. Allow yourself to be open to learning and listening. ¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana Amigxs!
