As a proud Puerto Rican American, Hispanic Heritage Month means honoring the past, present and future. It is paying homage to those who’ve paved the way for me and to the current generation. It is feeling confident and proud of my culture. And it is instilling that confidence and love of culture into my boys, as well as being a good role model for the future generations.   

My family doesn’t celebrate our culture only during Hispanic Heritage Month — we celebrate it every day even though we are a mixed culture family (my husband is of mainly European descent). It is common for us to have morning salsa or reggaeton dance parties; to eat Hispanic foods; and to hear Spanish on TV, when family is over or speak Spanglish at home. As my children get older, we’ll also be discussing more about our cultural and familial histories. 

My favorite part of Hispanic Heritage Month is the opportunity it provides to showcase our beautiful culture and people. For so long, Hispanic s/heroes were in the shadows — this month helps to shine the light on our culture and amazing contributions to society.

The biggest element of my heritage that empowers me is resiliency — the resiliency of my ancestors, of my elders, of the current generation todavía luchando (still fighting) for equality and for the future generations to follow who I know will make me just as proud.

As a Latina blogger and creative, representation of fellow Hispanic and Latina creatives is important

to me. I truly believe we bring an authentic, unique, much-needed viewpoint and voice to this space.

I encourage you all to increase your exposure of Hispanic creatives, activists and leaders, as well as

to support Hispanic-owned brands.