What does National Hispanic/Latin X Heritage Month mean to you?

National Hispanic /Latin X Heritage Month to me circles around the traditions of the culture, the bond between family, and the challenges and sacrifices my family and ancestors were faced with. My father migrated from Zacatecas when he was in high school. Once he finished high school, he went back to Mexico to bring my mom to the States, where they began their journey in California and raised me and my two younger sisters.

How do you celebrate National Hispanic/Latin X Heritage Month? How can others celebrate it?

I like to live every day by celebrating and experiencing my Hispanic/Latin heritage. For example, I spend time with my family and learn how to cook from my mom. The traditional celebrations that I grew up with, and continue to celebrate, are Dia De Las Muertos, family gatherings to support my cousin by attending their Folklorico dance recitals, and celebrating with the family for Quinceañeras.

How has your heritage shaped the person you are today and has it influenced your career?

My parents have helped shape who I am today through their hard work and sacrifice. My dad always worked hard to support the family, my mom holding down the fort, raising the family, and keeping the household running. Their “no quitting” mindset is how I display my work ethic and has helped me get to where I am in my career.

Who are the role models or mentors that have influenced you or helped guide you?

My mom is my role model as my dad passed when I was 10 years old. She was a single mother who raised two kids on her own. She never had much and worked hard to support my brother and I. My mother taught me to be a strong independent woman.

Does your family have any traditions that are especially important to you?

The first thing that comes to mind isn’t really a family tradition, but our family (Aunts, Uncles, & Cousins) have always congregated together. There is always something or someone’s birthday to celebrate. As the family grows with new generations, our schedules become busier.

Which Hispanic/LatinX change maker/figure inspires you?

There is no one figure that inspires me. I respect those that have made positive changes. Mostly, the figures that have inspired me the most are the older Mexican generations.

What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you?

To me, AAPI heritage month is a time to reflect on my identity and celebrate the traditions of our diverse community.

How has your heritage shaped the person you are today?

I am a 4th generation Japanese American. I have never been to Japan and I don’t speak Japanese. Growing up I learned of my family’s history and experiences through the stories of my grandparents’ and parents’ youth. They often told me of their times assimilating to American culture, maintaining their own culture, and even surviving U.S. concentration camps during World War II. These stories have led me to appreciate my own life and inspired me to maintain my family traditions by participating in cultural events such as Mochi-tsuki, Aki Matsuri, Nikkei Matsuri and dancing in the Japanese Obon festival. Participating in these events have led me to proudly embrace my identity as a Japanese American.

How has your heritage shaped the person you are today?

There’s a heavy matriarchy in Samoan culture. Because of this it has definitely influenced how I run my household and work life. I feel the need to have things, my children, and even my husband in order. I am constantly organizing my work tasks to fit my thinking and don’t hesitate when it comes to providing opinions or feedback.  I have learned that I cannot control all things and therefore allow my husband to make decisions, well at least once in a while.

Does your family have any traditions that are especially important to you?

So my family is very blended and we don’t primarily focus on Samoan traditions.  I have been influenced by a lot of Polynesian cultures. One thing that is common in all of the cultures is the importance of music.  This isn’t your typical tradition, however we strongly feel music guides us.  Musical learning is prominent in every subject taught. It is also common to have performances at any gathering including funerals. Whether it be religion, coping skills, gatherings, or just for fun music helps me through it all.