The Celebration of Our Hispanic Heritage: A Personal Reflection
Today, even though it’s not the customary day of celebration, I want to open my heart and share my thoughts about something that has been a part of my life and our community for years: the Hispanic Heritage Month and its significance.
For the past twenty years, I have watched how this celebration has grown and transformed into a national recognition in the United States. Every September 15th, we begin to celebrate not only our independence in various Latin American countries but also our presence and contribution to this nation, which is now our home.
This celebration, initiated in 1968 and extended to a full month by Ronald Reagan, recognizes not only our roots but also our present and future in the United States. As a Colombian, like many of you, I carry ‘berraquera’ in my blood, that strength that characterizes us and drives us to move forward despite obstacles.
In our rich Hispanic history and culture, there are countless examples of individuals whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the world. These people have not only achieved success in their respective fields but have also paved the way and become sources of inspiration and pride for the Hispanic community and beyond. Today, I want to highlight five extraordinary Hispanics whose stories of perseverance, talent, and dedication fill us with admiration and remind us of the vast potential that resides in our community. From literature to space, from performing arts to the highest courts of justice, these individuals represent the best of our heritage and legacy.
Gabriel García Márquez: The Colombian Nobel Prize winner is one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. His masterpiece, “One Hundred Years of Solitude,” is considered one of the most significant works of universal literature, and his style, known as magical realism, has influenced generations of writers around the world.
Ellen Ochoa: An astronaut and the first woman of Hispanic descent to go to space. Ochoa is a symbol of Hispanic contribution in science and space exploration. With several space flights to her credit, Ochoa has been a source of inspiration for young people, especially girls, interested in science and engineering.
Rita Moreno: One of the few artists to have won the four major American entertainment awards: Oscar, Emmy, Tony, and Grammy. Moreno, of Puerto Rican origin, has been a pioneer in representing Latinos in Hollywood and has paved the way for future generations in the entertainment industry.
Lin-Manuel Miranda: Known for his innovative musical “Hamilton,” Miranda has revolutionized modern theater. Of Puerto Rican descent, he has used his talent and platform to highlight Hispanic stories and voices, in addition to his activism in support of Hispanic communities, especially after Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.
Sonia Sotomayor: The first judge of Latina descent on the Supreme Court of the United States. Her appointment was historic and is seen as a symbol of progress and hope for many Hispanics in the United States. Her career and life are examples of overcoming and dedication to public service.
These individuals have not only achieved impressive accomplishments in their respective fields but have also opened paths and served as inspiration for countless Hispanics and others around the world. Their legacy goes beyond their individual achievements, being beacons of pride and examples of what our community can accomplish.
Likewise, let’s talk about our youth, that generation that is becoming a significant part of our community. Young people born between 1997 and 2012, who are shaping the future of the United States with their energy, culture, and dreams. As Hispanics, we have a responsibility to them: to ensure they grow up in an environment that respects and values their heritage.
But I also want to highlight our workforce. Impressive growth in sectors such as business, science, arts, and technology shows that we are reaching increasingly qualified occupations. Despite facing racism and discrimination, we are advancing, and that is something we should celebrate.
Still, there is much work to be done. We need to continue fighting for recognition of our contributions in all aspects of American society. From the arts to politics, we must ensure that our voice is heard and respected.
Reflecting on Hispanic Heritage Month, I am filled with pride, but also with responsibility. This celebration is a powerful reminder of our collective journey, the struggles and triumphs of the Hispanic community in the United States. It’s a time to recognize not only what we have achieved but also to contemplate the path that still lies ahead.
This Hispanic heritage we celebrate is not just a collection of dates and historical events; it is the vitality of a culture that has been woven into the vast tapestry of this nation. It is the resilience of generations that have faced adversities but have immensely contributed to society. From the fields of science and technology to the arts and politics, our influence is undeniable.
However, celebrating our heritage goes beyond recognition; it’s a call to action. We must use this time not only to reflect on our achievements but also to advocate for positive change in our communities. This involves educating the younger generation about their roots, fighting against stereotypes and discrimination, and tirelessly working for equal opportunities.
The celebration of Hispanic Heritage should also be a moment of unity and solidarity among all the cultures that make up this great nation. Although each group has its own history and struggles, we share a common desire for prosperity, respect, and recognition.
To conclude, I would like to extend an invitation: let’s continue to share our culture, our language, and our traditions. Let’s continue to be ambassadors of our Hispanic heritage, not just this month, but every day. Let’s remember that each one of us plays a crucial role in building a more inclusive and respectful world. Our Hispanic heritage is a treasure that we must care for, nurture, and most importantly, share with pride.
Watch this video, where I talk more about this: