Celebrating Latin and Hispanic Heritage Month

Latin and Hispanic Heritage Month (LHHM) is observed from September 15 to October 15, and is a time to celebrate the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Latin communities worldwide. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the origins of Latin and Hispanic people, acknowledging the diverse roots that shape our identities, including the cultures, languages, and values passed down through generations. This month allows us to honor our achievements and stories while recognizing the struggles and resilience of those who came before us. Stories that make us stronger and bring us together as a community.

Cisco is dedicated to creating an inclusive future for all. Through Conexión, a Cisco Employee Resource Group, we embrace the diverse cultural backgrounds of our Latin and Hispanic employees, and their allies. Conexión unites individuals to foster personal and professional development, through local networking, inspirational leadership, and numerous opportunities to give back.

Below are two personal accounts from members of our Conexión community about what Latin and Hispanic Heritage Month means to them.

Evelyn Reyes

Amid the busyness of everyday life, LHHM represents a moment in time to celebrate our rich culture, rejoice in community, and unapologetically take up and/or create space. My parents immigrated from Mexico, and growing up Fresno, CA gave me the confidence to embrace my culture. I fondly remember going to flea markets on weekends, listening to bandas play “El Sonidito”, and having a quinceañera filled with extended family. However, when I moved to Michigan for college, I was often one of only a few Latinas in the classroom, and I faced significant culture shock. To ease my transition at the University of Michigan, I joined Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. (ΛΘΑ), the first and largest Latina-based sorority—shifted my perspective. Our organization’s goals were aligned to scholar excellence, empowerment of the universal woman, and political and cultural awareness through activism. Through my experience, I learned the importance of creating opportunities in spaces that often don’t cater to people like me.

I often reflect on my generation’s openness to unlearn the trauma and survival instincts passed down through the years while fostering new, healthy generational patterns. I feel immense pride when I see others embracing the diversity within our community, recognizing that there’s no need to prove one’s Latino/a/e identity but rather to allow everyone to express their culture in a productive and inclusive way. Looking ahead, I envision a united Latino community that supports one another, challenges cultural stigmas around mental health and medical care, and is given the chance to live life to its fullest potential, free from  immigration and financial barriers. This month is a moment to remind ourselves to throw away the teachings of, “Calladita te ves mas bonita” (being quiet you are prettier) and instead channel our inner “chingona” (badass) – standing proud and speaking, “Con la cabeza en alto” (head up high), looking ahead while embracing our past.

Sebastian Gilardi

For me, LHHM is about looking back. It’s also a time to show respect and understanding for our cultures, customs, and ways of living. Personally, having recently moved to the U.S. from Argentina, this celebration feels like something I was looking for, a reminder of the importance of remembering where I come from. Even in a new place, I never forget my roots. This not only makes me proud, but also reinforces my identity. It reminds me that while I’m navigating new experiences, my heritage is always with me. This month encourages me to honor my heritage while embracing and learning from the diverse cultures around me.

While LHHM gives us a special opportunity to celebrate our culture, WE should continually uplift our community, honor our traditions, and show respect for other cultures, ensuring that the values of unity and diversity remain at the forefront of our lives all year long.

How to support

Latin people represent one of the fastest-growing populations in America, particularly among youth. Despite this growth, Latin and Hispanic individuals continue to face racism and discrimination and are underrepresented in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Your allyship can make a significant difference for Latin and Hispanic communities, whether they are friends, family, or colleagues. Here are four ways to start:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about the challenges faced by Latin and Hispanic communities through books, podcasts, or documentaries. Gaining knowledge on these topics can help you better understand the lived experiences of people from different backgrounds.
• Support Organizations: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that promote equity and inclusion for Latin and Hispanic communities.
• Year-Round Support: Show your support beyond Latin and Hispanic Heritage Month. Continuously listen to, celebrate, and uplift voices from Latin and Hispanic communities throughout the year.
• Cisco Employees: Join our Conexión team for our Latin and Hispanic Heritage global event on October 10th, 10AM PT/ 1PM ET on Cisco TV.

As a Latina, I am excited that we get to celebrate our heritage at work. These moments have enabled me to bring my true self to work – a Latina that is proud of her accent, heritage, and values – as Cisco is committed to becoming more inclusive for all.

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