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: 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: 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: 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: 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
