U.S COMMITTEE FOR REFUGEES AND IMMIGRANTS
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National Hispanic Heritage Month 2024

September 19, 2024

National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America and is celebrated each year from September 15 through October 15.

To celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, USCRI asked staff members who identify as Hispanic or Latinx about their heritage, what it means to them, and how they celebrate it.

 

“My Hispanic heritage is at the core of who I am. Though my family was born in different countries, our shared roots have shaped our upbringing and fueled our successes. We celebrate our culture through music, language, and food, with holidays being especially meaningful as they keep our traditions alive. Growing up in South Florida, I embraced the diversity of Hispanic cultures, finding common values that connect us all. Being Hispanic has opened doors for me in both education and my career, and it has taught me strength, perseverance, and resilience—qualities I’m incredibly proud of.”

 

Paula Marchan, Executive Assistant to the Senior Vice President

 

 

 

 

“My family’s culture means the world to me because it is part of who I am as a person. It’s in the fabric of my DNA and made me unique to those around me while I was growing up. I choose to honor it every day by proudly hanging a flag in my office, by fluently speaking Spanish to whoever needs to hear it, by shamelessly listening to the music and eating the food I grew up with, and constantly making Puerto Rico an element of many of my paintings. Puerto Rico may be a colony, but its people and their descendants played a huge role in United States history and will continue to do so.” 

 

Camila Piñero, Paralegal

 

 

“Benito Juárez, the first Indigenous president of Mexico, once said, ‘Respect for the rights of others is peace.’ This quote continues to resonate with me as a powerful reminder of the importance of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among all people.”

 

Luis Fernando Cruz Mejia, Human Resources Assistant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“I am incredibly proud of my Salvadoran heritage. Knowing how hard my parents worked to come to this country and the sacrifices they made to give me a better life fills me with gratitude. Every day, I strive to repay them for their resilience and strength. I celebrate my roots because they are a part of me—something no one can ever take away. My heritage is a reminder of where I come from and the perseverance that runs through my veins.”

 

Karen Duenas, Associate Director of Human Resources

 

 

“For me, celebrating my culture is not just about embracing my heritage—it’s about passing it on to the next generation. As a mother of biracial Latino/Asian children, I take pride in teaching them about the strength and legacy of our ancestors, particularly the brave women of our family, the Mirabal sisters, who fought for justice and change. I must show my daughter the courage of the women who led our family, and our country, the Dominican Republic, through revolution—even in the face of death. The mission is not just about justice for ourselves, but justice for our people. I carry this legacy, and one day, it will empower my daughter to become a changemaker who transforms the world for the better. Our stories remind us that we are connected, not only by blood but by a shared mission to create a brighter future for all.”

 

Carolina Hidalgo-Ahmed, Social Worker – HS/PRS Program

 

 

 

”Being a Chicano to me means creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. And the quickest way to do that is through good Mexican food! There is a saying in Spanish, ‘Donde comen dos, comen tres,’ which translates to, ‘Where two can eat, three can eat.’ In my home, where three can eat, all are invited to the fiesta.”

 

Aaron Nodjomian-Escajeda, Senior Policy Analyst

 

 

 

 

 

“I was born and raised in Medellin, Colombia, and I migrated to the United States about 12 years ago. My culture and Hispanic heritage are a fundamental part of who I am. Celebrating my Hispanic and Colombian heritage is a source of pride and joy. Colombian culture is rich with vibrant traditions, delicious food, energetic music like cumbia and vallenato, and colorful festivals like Feria de las Flores. I feel honored and immensely proud to be part of an organization that cares for and protects immigrants and their families.”

 

– Diana Escobar, Lead Human Resources Generalist

 

 

 

“The essence of being Boricua is intricately woven into every aspect of my identity.
It’s reflected in the vibrant celebrations of culture, through history marked by resilience, and the warmth of our people.
It’s the irresistible urge to dance as the rhythms of Bomba or Plena fill the air.
It’s in the food that nourishes our souls, evoking nostalgia.
It’s the calming sounds of the ocean and the sweet sound of the coqui.
It’s the pride we feel for our flag.
It’s tears when singing ‘En Mi Viejo San Juan’ and ‘Preciosa.’
It’s the unique fusion of Taino, African, and Spanish influences in our traditions, passed down to future generations—our legacy.
It’s a tapestry woven with love, struggle, joy, and an everlasting sense of belonging through community.
It’s in a simple ‘Wepa.’
It means no matter where I go, I carry the spirit and strength of Puerto Rico with me.
It’s in my bones—hasta la Muerte. Te quiero, Puerto Rico!”

 

– Frances Garcia Barna, Clinical Supervisor – HS/PRS Program

 

 

 

“Being Hispanic has given me diversity inside and out. It has given me a different perspective on things; it has given me colors.
It gave me La Fania All-Stars and good food! It taught me that you don’t have to stop being kind in order to be brave.
It also taught me that just like fruit, life tastes better with salt and lemon.”

 

Fernando Mora, Communications Officer – Digital Marketing

 

 

 

 

“My culture means everything to me; it’s the foundation of my identity. Moving to the U.S. from Mexico when I was eight, I grew up in a Mexican household that celebrated all our traditional holidays. These celebrations honor my roots and connect me to my family and ancestors. From creating vibrant altars for Día de los Muertos to honoring those who have passed, to showcasing our flag in September for Mexico’s independence, and enjoying delicious food like pozole and tamales, it’s not just about the meal; it’s about the time spent together, sharing laughs and memories. I take immense pride in the richness of my culture, which has shaped who I am today.”

 

– Areli Munoz Reyes, Family Support Specialist, HS/PRS Program

 

 

 

 

 

USCRI, founded in 1911, is a non-governmental, not-for-profit international organization committed to working on behalf of refugees and immigrants and their transition to a dignified life.

For inquiries, please contact: [email protected]


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