by Beronica Ramirez, GHA Dining Services Team Leader
Every year, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. The celebration of the Hispanic community and their various accomplishments within the U.S. first commenced in 1968 under President Johnson. Initially a week-long celebration, it was later extended to a full month in 1988 by President Reagan.
What some might not know is that the time frame aligns with various Latin countries rejoicing in their Independence Days. Hispanic Heritage Month is truly a remarkable way to acknowledge the hard work and numerous contributions of the 65.2 million Hispanics in this country. That number, gathered from the 2023 Census, converts to 19.5% of the U.S. population.
What Being Hispanic Represents
As a proud Hispanic, who was born and raised in Alexandria, Va., I have definitely learned a gargantuan amount about my roots, as well as those of my family. My mother migrated from her home country, El Salvador, back in 1983, roughly thirteen years before my birth. When she made the difficult decision to leave behind all she ever knew, El Salvador was experiencing war within the country. The lack of safety, jobs and any chance of advancement, led my mother to go in search of a new life. She understood that in order to have a future, she would have to leave her family behind, venturing into unknown lands without any familiar faces.
Ever since I was a young girl, my mother ensured that my sister and I understood we were privileged Hispanics, born in a place of promise and advancement like the U.S. Subsequently, we were taught to never forget where our family came from, and take pride in our Latin roots, with our fluency in Spanish being non-negotiable. As a mother now myself, I try to instill those same values in my daughter. Just because we are living our American Dream, it does not erase that we are proudly Hispanic!
Closing Thoughts
The United States is a nation made up of various cultures, demonstrating diversity everywhere. With the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Latinos and Hispanics within the U.S. are recognized for their contributions. Whether these Latinos are U.S.-born, Naturalized Citizens, Permanent Residents, or undocumented, it is quite evident that we have shared our culture while embracing what the U.S. has to offer.
To the readers, I challenge you all to imagine a world where Latinos do not exist. Take into account that many Hispanics work in jobs that some might view as less desirable. Nonetheless, the Hispanic community has always been driven to better themselves and to create a better future for their families. Never lose sight of the fact that we are all created equally, with everyone making their own unique contributions to the world.
As you all look around and see how diverse Goodwin Living is, whether it be the team members, residents or external visitors, take a moment to appreciate that uniqueness and cultural differences make the world a better place. Diversity allows us to learn new things from others, be innovative and creative. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let us not just think of our various differences, but how we can all be accepting of one another.
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Goodwin Living DEIB Committee: Statement of Purpose: Educate, Embrace and Empower team members, residents, members* and all served by Goodwin Living to support Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.
Goodwin Living DEIB Committee Desired Outcome: The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Committee (DEIB) will seek open and honest communication and collaboration that will inform and celebrate the age, culture, ethnicity and sexual orientation of team members, residents, members* and all served by Goodwin Living without bias.
*Members include Priority Club members and Goodwin Living At Home.
Questions or comments? Please contact us DEIB@GoodwinLiving.org
