10/13/2026
What does Latine Heritage Month mean to you?
To me, Latine Heritage Month is not only a time to honor our roots, but also to learn about our homelands and their histories. It is a time to be prideful and curious. Latinos/as/es are an incredibly diverse group of people and this month celebrates that diversity, while also uplifting the connection we all share through our Latinidad. This time can be a great opportunity to continue learning about the experiences and contributions of Latinas/os/es from all different parts of the world and intentionally uplift groups of Latines that are often marginalized, such as AfroLatines and Indigenous Latines. Being curious about others' experiences is how we build connection and understanding of one another, and develop greater appreciation for people who are different from ourselves. Along with learning, Latine Heritage Month reminds me of the joy that my identity as a Latina woman brings me, and how it has shaped me to be who I am today.
Why are you proud to be Latina/o/e?
I am proud to be Latina, specifically Mexicana, because I come from a community that is incredibly joyous, dedicated, and hardworking. I feel proud to have ties to another country outside of the U.S, and I feel empowered in that connection each and every day. My heritage and my family are where I come from and are a core part of who I am. Holding this identity has brought me so much joy and community throughout my lifetime. I feel proud to continue learning and honoring my Mexican heritage through building connections with other Latinas/es/os in my community, cooking foods that remind me of my homeland, laughing a lot, honoring multilingualism, and doing what I can to give back to my Latine community. -Gaby Stark-Torrentera
