Las Jefas - Celebrating Our Ancestral Strength
By Marisa Rivera
Every year, I look forward to September 15 to October 15, when we observe Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to showcase the beauty, richness, traditions, legacy, and accomplishments of our Hispanic community. While I personally celebrate my Latinidad year-round, this time offers a dedicated pause to honor the profound contributions of Hispanic Americans to this nation.
It is disheartening to witness efforts to erase some of our American history—a history that is fundamentally interwoven with our existence. For me, my very presence is defined by the struggles and triumphs of my ancestors: African, Spanish, Taíno, American, and Puerto Rican bloodlines that flow within me.
The truth is, Hispanic Americans predate the founding of the United States in 1776. Our roots trace back to the indigenous cultures of the Americas—including the Arawaks, Aztecs, Incas, Mayans, and Taínos—as well as the Spanish conquistadores and Africans brought as slaves to the New World. Each thread carries a history, culture, and struggle inextricably tied to this country. We are the resilient tapestry woven from the seeds of valiant natives, bold aggressors, and unwilling slaves—a history that connects us all.
Hispanic Americans have forged and enriched the national character of the U.S. through a strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. We have shaped this country with centuries-old traditions, reflecting a history that binds us together.
Honoring the Legacy That Cannot Be Erased
During this month, I want to pay special tribute to our ancestors. We honor their sacrifices, their labor, their sweat, tears, and challenging journeys. But more importantly, we thank them for the wisdom, faith, light, courage, and strength they transmitted.
This ancestral wisdom lives within us and can never be erased. For example, as a Puerto Rican, visiting a family member or friend often involves asking for a “Bendición” (a blessing). The response—“Que Dios te Bendiga” (God Bless you)—is how our ancestors taught us to answer. It translates to profound respect: "I see you," - "Your safety matters to me." It taught us that protection is not solely derived from government or documents, but from our community bonds—a powerful way to transform strangers into family and build strong, protective communities.
Hispanics' Indisputable Contributions and Influence
Despite facing numerous disparities and discrimination for decades, Latinos consistently demonstrate loyalty and commitment to this country. We have fought in every American war since World War I and are often the first responders during natural disasters or times of need, such as 9/11. Economically, we infuse over $4.1 trillion into the U.S. economy annually (Latino Donor Collaborative), and we are the fastest-growing segment of small business owners in America. Furthermore, our influence has shaped U.S. culture in countless, vibrant ways.
Let us never forget that Latino history is American history—a story full of resilience, creativity, and transformation, all thanks to the legacy of our ancestors. Their energy, wisdom, faith, light, courage, and culture live within us, ensuring that their legacy will NEVER be erased.
Marisa Rivera is president of Mpowerment Works, a motivational speaker, executive coach and leadership and empowerment consultant. Marisa@ MpowermentWorks.com.