Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! As we celebrate the cultures, histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans, we sat down with some members of our community to learn more about their experiences. Here are some of the highlights from those conversations:
Name:
Heritage:
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?:
What are some of the traditions you celebrate during Hispanic Heritage Month?:
What are some of the challenges you face as a Hispanic or Latino American?:
What are some of the things you are proud of about your culture and heritage?:
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us! We hope you all have a happy and safe Hispanic Heritage Month.
Hispanic Heritage Month Interview: Luisa Soaterna
Could you talk a bit about your experience growing up Hispanic in New York City?
It’s a little more difficult for first-generation kids like me and my siblings because we have to figure everything out on our own. Even though they made many sacrifices to bring us here, our parents weren’t born here, so we had to figure everything out on our own. There are a lot of people like you, so it’s important to remember where you came from and to stick together as much as you can. You dont have to figure everything out alone. All of us were learning English as our second language. We had a very difficult upbringing and few resources at our disposal. Having to figure out things that many people have already figured out because they received assistance from their family members made me stronger in a way.
Do you have a favorite memory from your childhood where you most strongly felt a sense of community?
The Dominican parade is always fun because Dominicans come in a variety of shapes and colors. Even if you dont know each other, everyone welcomes you. Nothing compares to dressing in your team’s colors, and New York City has a huge turnout, which is so heartwarming. It’s wonderful to see more people from the Dominican Republic and other Hispanic nations moving to the city, leaving their mark, and bringing a bit of their culture with them. Even though they can’t bring the entire island with them, they can bring that small portion and share it with everyone else.
Q: What do you think is the best and worst part about being Hispanic?
A: The best part about being Hispanic is the culture. As a whole, we are a united group. We truly get to celebrate such a beautiful culture. However, the culture receives a lot of negative perspectives. I believe that is one of the worst things because even though I want to celebrate my culture and who I am, I’ve always felt like I’ve had to hide who I am because of the effects of racial discrimination, which are mostly felt here in the United States.
Deacon Jim Vargas is first-generation Hispanic American. His parents both separately emigrated from Puerto Rico in the early 50’s looking for the American dream and better opportunities. They later met and married in Manhattan to build a life and begin their family. We interviewed Deacon Jim about the importance and influence of Hispanic heritage and why we should all celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
Deacon Jim Vargas discusses the impact of Hispanic heritage in the US during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Although I recognize that is not the case for everyone in a minority situation, I have had many opportunities as a minority and this wonderful country has provided me with many opportunities, including educational opportunities and employment opportunities. When it comes to Father Joe’s Villages, the homeless are also a minority (if you consider both San Diego and our nation as a whole). I believe I can relate to them because I am a minority and have encountered the challenges that minorities occasionally face in establishing themselves. This holds true for homeless individuals as well because they face stigma and negative judgment. It’s about understanding that they, too, are capable of realizing their potential if given the chance to do so and the necessary resources and assistance.
I am very Americanized because I was born here and come from the first generation. I attended school here my entire life and have lived here ever since. However, I strongly identify as a Latino in terms of my culture, ancestry, and awareness of where I came from—especially given that I came from very humble beginnings. Regarding my work at Father Joe’s Villages, I am aware that the individuals [we serve] are people, some of whom are Hispanic and others who are not, who all have homelessness in common. My Catholic faith and Latino heritage help me to understand that “there before the Grace of God go I.” I have a lot of blessings in my life, and I want to use them to make a difference here at Father Joe’s Villages. I want to use my skills and experiences to help our clients and their children live better lives in the future.
I believe it is important to acknowledge the achievements and contributions of those who came before us and those who are still making them in this wonderful country. More importantly, we must ensure that we develop and nurture those brilliant Latino minds so that they can go on to positively impact our country in the future in all spheres of endeavor and in all facets of life.
FAQ
What questions are asked during Hispanic Heritage Month?
Can you describe your experience as a Latinx student in higher education? What are some of the difficulties you have encountered and overcame? Why do you believe it is so important to observe Hispanic Heritage Month?
What are 3 facts about Hispanic Heritage Month?
Facts Students Should Know About Hispanic Heritage Month and Hispanic Heritage Week Expansion to Hispanic Heritage Month. September 15th is Independence Day for 5 Countries. Shared Celebration for Hispanic and Latino/a People. 1 in 5 People Identify as Hispanic. New Theme Every Year.
Why is it important to learn about Hispanic Heritage Month?
Since 1968, even though it was only Hispanic Heritage Week at the time, Hispanic Heritage Month has existed. It aims to highlight the progress that still needs to be made while also paying tribute to the Hispanic heritage and all Hispanic Americans who have contributed to the development of America.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month means to me?
The month emphasizes the enormous diversity of the Hispanic community and serves as a venue for Hispanic communities to celebrate who we are. Hispanic Heritage Month in America also serves as a reminder of the positive impact that Hispanic people have had on the country and its culture.
