My story very well may be the same as yours. 

My parents came to the United States because they thought I’d have a better chance at securing a good life here than where they grew up. And I’m so grateful for their sacrifices. 

But even though they left Mexico decades ago, our cultural heritage is still an important part of our lives, as I’m sure you can relate. 

That’s the beauty of our country—our differences. 

No matter where we come from, we are united by our interrelated histories, our struggle for a better life, and our untiring desire to keep reaching for more. 

The sun on our skin, the gusts of wind against our body, the dust that catches in our breath—these are reminders that we are still here. We exist. We endure. And we dream of better tomorrows, not just for ourselves, but for the generations who will follow. 

Despite any obstacle, we keep moving forward, aware and proud of where we came from, but always moving forward. 

Our pride in our heritage, our family, and ourselves is stronger than any sunburn or thorn that may sting us along the way. 

Because we don’t give up easily. 

We know the sun is far away, but that doesn’t mean we’ll stop reaching towards it. 

From the root, we move forward, 

arms outstretched towards the sky, 

reaching up up  up  Hacia el Sol 

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! 

Con cariño, 
Alicia Nuñez