Hispanic Heritage Month has taken on new meaning for me since sharing my personal journey which includes my struggle with my identity as a Latina for a large part of my childhood years. Growing up black Hispanic I didn't always feel and was made to feel like I wasn't Latina enough but then again I wasn't "black" enough either? What do these things even mean and can you imagine how confusing that can be for a 7 year old?
I am finally finding my voice and am proud to break through my shyness to be able to share and inspire. This Hispanic Heritage Month, I sat on an amazing panel organized and executed by The Latino Bigs of Big Brothers Big Sisters and SOL, the Latino affinity group of SirusXM (Siempre Orgullo Latino).
After mixing and mingling the panel which was moderator by George Nenadich (On-air talent at SiriusXM. Host of salsa radio show "La Vieja Escuala" and Rumbon" and also hosts talk show on ESPN Deportes called "Fusion Deportivo") settled down to discuss the top of the evening which was #UNIDOSWERISE and how we disrupt the disparities, racism, & segregation within our own communities in addition to the importance of coming together during this time of intensified political polarization.
It was truly a heavy conversation which I was honored to be a part of. The intensity of the conversation I must say, was in great part due to well crafted panel which included the below list of impressive individuals. It was truly and honor.
Dr. Juan Rios
Full-time Professor at Seton Hall University, CEO/Clinical Director of Rios & Associates Therapeutic Solutions
Diana Noriega
Chief Program Officer for the Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, Inc.
Jerry Diaz
AKA "Elmo Difoca", Co-founder, writer and director of Room 28
