A Journey Through Hispanic Heritage

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated in the U.S. from September 15th to October 15th this year. As I walk around town, I’m already seeing signs and posters announcing various events. It was on one of these walks today that I found myself thinking about a simple question: “What does being Hispanic mean to me?”

This question took me on a journey through my memories—family, friends, travel, accents, food, music, and career. It was a journey also filled with appreciation and gratitude.

I was born and raised in Peru to an American father and a Peruvian mother. My family is a blend of languages and cultures: half speak Spanish and not English, while the other half speak English and not Spanish. My father, an American immigrant, spent over 50 years in Peru. Growing up, accents were a natural part of life—an American accent in Spanish and a Spanish accent in English. In fact, I only realized the concept of an accent for the first time, at around age 8, when a friend pointed out that my father had one.

Navigating this duality of languages and cultures often meant filling in some blanks or providing additional context, as my families were raised in different cultural backgrounds. The interesting point about this setting is that it sparked curiosity and a desire to understand, and in turn, brought openness and space for sharing.

In Peru, I never used the term “Hispanic” to describe myself or those around me. We used “Peruvian” or broader terms like “Latinos” or “Latin Americans.” It was only when I moved to the U.S. for graduate school that I encountered the term “Hispanic.” Initially, it was confusing, and I’m still exploring its full meaning.

Who is included? Do people need to speak Spanish to be Hispanic? Do they have to be born and raised in the U.S., or be second generation? Does one need to speak English? Are people from Spain considered Hispanic?

To me, the answer encompasses all of the above. Each person’s journey is unique, but together we form a mosaic of shared stories—family, upbringing, music, dance, friendships, history, grit, and more.

Last year, I attended a concert by a Dominican singer whose music I grew up enjoying. There, at Madison Square Garden, surrounded by thousands of people, I got a small glimpse of the size and impact of the Hispanic community—19.5% of the U.S. population. I realized also, that despite our diverse backgrounds, we share a culture that extends beyond language.

I’m passing this cultural heritage on to my daughter. She’s bilingual now and feels happy to be able to connect with more people because of it. Her awareness and appreciation for Latin culture grows each year as she hears stories and expressions from family and friends and picks up on similarities and nuances. I’m curious about her future experience as a Hispanic woman—how it will differ from mine but still carry a common thread. As always, fun discussions about accents and pronunciation continue at home, in both directions, Spanish and English.

The personal journey goes hand in hand with the professional one. Reflecting on my professional journey over the past 20 years in the U.S., I’ve asked myself how being Hispanic has influenced me at work. I believe it has fueled my curiosity and empathy, enhancing my interactions with people from all walks of life. My background helps me relate to various experiences and challenges, not just within the Hispanic community but across different minority groups, immigrants, and those at work for whom English is a second language.

It has also driven my desire to help, learn, provide opportunities, and challenge stereotypes. According to the latest LEAN IN report, The State of Latinas in Corporate America “Latinas face the steepest climb up the corporate ladder—or the biggest drop in representation from entry level to the C-suite. As a result, they end up the least represented at the top: only 1 percent of C-suite executives are Latina”

This highlights a significant area of opportunity and action for all of us.  If we don’t see it, we can’t be it—or at least it becomes much harder than it needs to be. Let’s change that and work together to ensure there is a seat at the table for someone who doesn’t look, speak, or think exactly like us. Let’s source, mentor, and sponsor talent to accelerate the jump over the two hurdles mentioned in the report (initial steps to management and into the C-suite). More importantly, let’s continue to foster a workplace where everyone feels safe to bring forward their unique and authentic selves.

We can all start somewhere this month. Perhaps the starting point can be embracing our curiosity about Hispanic culture. Research facts, read a book by a Hispanic or Latin author, watch a film by Latino directors, try one of the many fantastic cuisines from Latin American, and engage in conversations with your Hispanic colleagues and celebrate this month.

Remember, Hispanic Heritage exists all year round. The opportunity to learn and celebrate doesn’t expire on Oct 15th. Enjoy the experience and conversations.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!