Friend,

I’m writing to you this Latine Heritage Month to celebrate the rich heritage and
contributions of Latine communities across the country.

Latinidad , for me, represents a tapestry of communities and cultures woven from diverse
threads — from the borderlands of Mexico to the islands of the Caribbean. The
Latine community is a dynamic, multicultural mosaic, defined not by geographical
borders but by our multifaceted identities and shared tenacity. We don't fit
neatly into predefined boxes; instead, we are a vibrant community of diverse
experiences, languages, and traditions.

I’m a proud Afro-Boricua from Puerto Rico. I came to the United States when I
was 21, where I was fortunate to have certain rights that many immigrants lack,
such as U.S. citizenship. But my journey to this country also entailed
navigating the challenges of being "othered," confronting racism and xenophobia,
and grappling with the constant feeling that I am perceived as less than fully
American.

As I reflect on all of this, I can’t help but also think about last week’s DACA
ruling, and the uncertainty thousands of immigrants and our loved ones are
feeling in this moment. This ruling is a stark reminder of the shared struggles
that shape our immigrant experience, and it resonates with the fears many of us
have carried throughout our journey. It's also a reminder that our fight for
justice and equality is ongoing and that our collective efforts can make a
difference.

So, this Latine Heritage Month, we are devoting our time and resources to
supporting a few of these organizations that directly work alongside Latine
communities, and we hope you’ll join us. Click on the links below to donate.

National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice:
[[link removed]] This organization centers and amplifies Latine voices so our communities can
transform the systems and narratives that influence our ability to reclaim our
bodies and our lives.

No Us Without You LA:
[[link removed]] An organization that provides food security for the undocumented community
(back of house, hospitality, street vendors, mariachis, and marginalized
neighborhood residents) throughout Los Angeles County. As of June 2023, this
organization is serving over 700 families (2,800 people) bi-weekly at no cost to
them.

Dolores Huerta Foundation:
[[link removed]] This organization organizes communities to build volunteer organizations
empowered to take action for social justice. They work with directly impacted
communities to drive solutions with tools, training, and resources.

AfroResistance:
[[link removed]] A Black Latina women-led organization providing services and activities
promoting education and empowerment, respect for human rights, and justice for
Black Latine communities.

Thank you for coming together to recognize, support, and celebrate Latine
Heritage Month.

Hasta pronto,

Kica Matos
President
National Immigration Law Center

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