Hispanic/Latino Lawmakers Talk About Their Life in Advocacy for Hispanic Heritage Month
AARP New York is proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by asking our New York elected officials from around the state to share their stories about why they decided to run for office, why it’s important to celebrate Hispanic/Latino culture and tradition, and what New Yorkers age 50-plus can do to get involved in local and state public policy. Here is what the legislators shared with us:
Congressman
Adriano Espaillat
13th District
1. How can 50 plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact in public policy?
Latino representation is growing exponentially across the nation and reached a record population of over 62 million people in the U.S. Today, Latino communities account for 19% of the overall American population, making them the second largest racial and ethnic group in the nation. With a record number of Americans who live in multigenerational, multiracial and bilingual households that are more inclined to embrace their immigrant roots today more than at any other time in the history of our nation, I encourage everyone, especially those of us who are 50 years and older, to get involved by volunteering in their local community or engaging on an issue important to them and have a say on how the policies directly impacting them are implemented.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
I strongly believe that Latino representation at all levels of government, including at the local city, state and federal levels play a tremendous role in communicating with communities that our government and related policies are inclusive of the needs of all people, and thus helps our nation build support among diverse communities. Latino leaders undoubtedly think of their community when formulating legislation. For example, I have introduced several bills before the U.S. House of Representatives to promote opportunities for Latinos including H.R. 5324 – the Housing Survivors of Major Disasters Act to advance equity in federal disaster aid; H.R. 5105 – Las Americas Energy Security Act to help energy needs in Latin America and the Caribbean; H.R. 3689 – the American Aviation Diversity Act to foster diversity in the aviation industry, and much more. Latino leaders also play an important role in the nomination and appointment process for important White House positions, we have witnessed that recently with the biggest number of Latino Presidential Appointees.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
Latino culture and our traditions are deeply woven into the fabric of America. Staying connected to our roots, native languages, the traditions of our forefathers, and our history while passing these to the next and future generations – will be critical to our future grow. For Latinos living in the U.S. today, over 41 million speak Spanish as their primary language in the home—which is 13.3 percent of the entire U.S. population. Each year, I host several events that uplift the Latino community and celebrate our culture all year round. To name a few, I host Dominicans on the Hill, a leading event held in Washington, DC, at the U.S. Capitol that recognizes the growing civic engagement of the Dominican American community and throughout the diaspora; the Puerto Rican Day Parade Breakfast that honors Puerto Rican leaders and recognizes the tremendous positive Puerto Rican impact in America; and many more. Additionally, as Deputy Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), I aim to maintain the visibility of Latino contributions across sectors and throughout generations, especially our future generation.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
Latino communities have had a prominent influence on the Hip Hop culture with its influence beginning in the late 80s and flourishing in the late 90s. Today, Hip Hop contains undeniable seeds of the Latino culture with infused roots of its vivid and dynamic energy. Artists such as Big Pun, Immortal Technique, Fat Joe, N.O.R.E, Tego Calderon, Daddy Yankee, Residente, and many more have brought this Latin fuse with songs and albums being know all throughout the American Hip Hop culture, which we witnessed on stage in New York City at Yankee Stadium during a huge 50th Anniversary celebration. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop, we recognize the impact of Latino artists in the genre and celebrate Hip Hop and its influence around the world.
Congresswoman
Nydia Velazquez
7th District
1. How can 50 plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact in public policy?
Voting and making your voice heard is one of the best ways to impact the policies that help shape our country. While voting is crucial at impacting public policy, engaging with elected representatives is essential to making change. This means calling their offices, writing to them, and if needed protesting for the issues that you believe are important to you. As an elected official, I serve the people of my district and, to an extent, people living across the country, and my work is guided by hearing from the people. Whether you are 18 or 65, you can significantly impact the issues that affect you and your community by making your voice heard.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
Historically, our government has only worked for White Americans, while Black and Brown communities were misrepresented and oftentimes forgotten about. When I was first elected to Congress, I was the first Puerto Rican woman to ever serve in the House of Representatives and one of just three Latinas in the House. For many of the issues that faced Hispanic communities in New York City, I often had to stand alone to make sure that the voices of the people I served were heard. As the Hispanic community grew in our country, so did the number of Hispanic representatives. During the 118th Congress, we've had a record number of members in the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. This represents real progress toward the goal of ensuring the issues important to Latinos are addressed in government. This representation means the people can know that they have representatives who understand Hispanic culture and the daily issues that working families face. While we have made tremendous progress, there is still more work to be done to ensure proper representation for Hispanic communities across the country.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
Hispanic traditions are unique, important, and have helped to shape the America that we live in today. It is crucial that we pass this rich legacy down to future generations. There are a number of ways that we can keep this vibrant culture alive. I believe one of the most effective ways to pass along Hispanic tradition is by immersing ourselves in this culture. Whether this be by cooking Hispanic food, reading the works of prominent Latino authors, or appreciating Hispanic works of art, soaking in our rich culture can show where we have come from and where our community is going. We are a unique group of people, and it is up to every Hispanic person to showcase everything that makes our culture great. We can also keep our traditions alive through education and teaching our history. We have a rich history of trailblazers who have improved people's lives within and outside the Hispanic community and left an undeniable mark on our world. It's vital that our educational system teach students about the massive impact of Hispanics in our country and abroad.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
You can't tell the American story without telling the story of Hispanics in this country as well. Our culture, especially in New York City, has been shaped by decades of immigrants who came to this country for a better life. One cultural aspect these migrants brought with them is the music of their home country. Music is oftentimes a great connector and a way to share someone's culture, as well a way to collaborate and integrate different sounds with other music genres. Hip-Hop is no different, since the genre started, we have seen the integration of Hispanic culture in Hip-Hop. Hispanic music has affected other genres of music, but Hip-Hop, particularly in New York City, has been influenced tremendously by the sounds and beats from Hispanic countries. This is also not limited to music. From film to fashion to literature, we can see Hispanic influence in every part of American culture.
Senator
Gustavo Rivera
33rd Senate District
1. How can 50-plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact on public policy?
Older Latino New Yorkers should engage with their elected officials and advocate for the changes they want to see in their communities for their generation and those following them. Some of my most significant legislative accomplishments have been the result of policy ideas brought to my team by my constituents. Legislators need to focus on the needs of the working class and families, and Latinos older than 50 have invaluable insight into solutions for our state's most pressing problems.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
Representation matters. It is important for our community to see themselves in positions of power where they can directly use their voice and contribute to decision-making and policy-making processes at any level of government. I am very cognizant of my responsibility as a Latino public servant to develop the next generation of leadership. I'm committed to supporting up-and-coming Latinos with public office aspirations within my team, in the legislature, and across New York and by educating and empowering future generations through civic classes and student leadership programs like the CUNY Model Senate program.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
We must continue to hold space for Latino traditions because our culture is integral to American culture. When I listen to music or cook the dishes I grew up with, I'm honoring the celebrations that made me who I am and make our culture such a vibrant one. Keeping traditions alive and ensuring that our future generations will honor them and make them their own makes New York a beautiful place to live.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
Hip-hop was born in The Bronx. In our streets, Black and Latino kids grew up together and shared many life experiences as well as hardships. Those same kids grew up creating an art form in hip-hop that has extended its reach to a worldwide phenomenon. Latinos made hip hop our own by bringing our countries' rhythms to the genre.
Assembly Member
Juan Ardila
Assembly District 37
1. How can 50 plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact in public policy?
Oftentimes people hear that public policy gets shaped by special interests and lobbyists in Albany. In my experience however, the people who have had the most direct impact on influencing policy have been constituents who meet directly with their elected officials. For example, I have always had an open door policy at my district office in Queens, and the very first constituents who walked through our doors was a Hispanic couple over 50 asking if we could do something about their rents going up because of Major Capital Improvements (MCI's) at their rent-controlled building. For context, when a rent-controlled building undergoes an MCI, it provides a loophole for their landlord to raise rents where otherwise they wouldn't be able to. This process can continue until the increase in rent effectively prices out the very same tenants that these rent-controlled units were designed to protect. Now, it was because of these Hispanic constituents over 50 who walked into my office to bring this issue to my attention, that motivated me to re-introduce legislation in the State Assembly to end rent increases due to MCI's. I am very certain that my story isn't an isolated one, so I encourage all Hispanic New Yorkers over 50 to make appointments to meet with their elected officials whenever they can.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic / Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
It's extremely important because representation matters. It matters to our children, who are searching for role models and heroes in their community to look up to. It matters to young adults, who enter the age when they begin questioning whether or not their leaders are fighting for their futures. It matters to renters and small homeowners, who wonder if their electeds understand what it means to come from a working class household of color. And last but not least, it matters to our growing migrant community, who want to know that their new representatives understand their struggle. Representation matters because where we come from matters.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
One of the things that can happen when a family migrates to this country is that they lose some of their cultures and traditions when trying to assimilate into North American society. While some people believe that assimilation means letting go of the past, it actually means the opposite; to take in new customs and adding it to what you already practice. I am half Colombian and half Honduran, and some of the simple ways I've helped to keep my family's traditions alive was by learning how to cook some of the best foods from both countries. I also speak Spanish at home, and to my constituents if it is their preferred language. I listen to music that is prevalent in Latin America and keep up with news and TV shows from Colombia and Honduras. In the office, we also amplify Independence Day for Latin American countries so constituents can keep informed about history and its significance.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
The LatinX impact on hip hop culture is everywhere today, with some of the world's most well known rappers being of Hispanic or Caribbean descent, such as J Balvin, Feid, Karol G, Bad Bunny or Daddy Yankee. It's also very common to hear English rappers incorporate spanish lyrics into some of their pop songs because of how many fans come from Spanish speaking countries today. However, we can also go back in time to some of hip hop's formative days and find LatinX and Caribbean rappers helping to shape the genre, such as Cypress Hill, Immortal Technique, Big Pun, Fat Joe and Honduran director Hype Williams. Many Hispanics also made up the break dancing teams that used to be seen anywhere hip hop artists performed. While some people might argue about how early or how sizable the Hispanic influence on hip hop was, the impact that our community has made on it can not be denied.
Assembly Member
Catalina Cruz
Assembly District 39
1. How can 50-plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact in public policy?
I am a firm believer in the power of sharing your story. For legislators, it is important to hear from constituents about their needs and how we can better meet them. Hispanic and LatinX New Yorkers can make an impact by engaging with public officials through something as simple as calling our offices, participating in town halls or even becoming part of advisory committees. You bring something key to the table, the real-life perspective that is key to impactful policy-making.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
We can bring firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities that our community faces. This insight enables us to craft policies that are inclusive and responsive to the unique needs of our constituents, whether it's related to education, healthcare, immigration, or economic opportunities. When members of our community see people who look like them in positions of leadership, it inspires hope and fosters a sense of empowerment and trust. It sends the message that anyone, regardless of their background, can aspire to be a leader and make a positive impact.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
Our team works to host and support community events that highlight our culture and traditions, from El Dia de Los Tres Reyes to La Feria del Libro. These events allow our neighbors to celebrate holidays we know, encourage our youth to engage and preserve traditions, and have fun too!
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
Hip-hop has brought us joy, got us through heartbreaks, and even served as the soundtrack to many political movements. Our Hispanic/Latinx artists, musicians, dancers, and creators have been instrumental in shaping the diverse and dynamic tapestry of hip-hop culture. From iconic artists like Big Pun, Fat Joe, Cypress Hill, and N.O.R.E. to more contemporary figures like Cardi B, Snow Tha Product, and Residente - they have all contributed to making the last 50 years of hip-hop memorable. They have often used their lyrics to explore issues of identity, heritage, and the challenges of love and life, fostering a sense of connection and empowerment among Latinx listeners.
Assembly Member
Maritza Davila
Assembly District 43
1. How can 50 plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact in public policy?
50 plus Hispanic and Latino New Yorkers can deeply impact policy by being civically engaged in their local government and staying educated on prominent issues that affect their communities.
They are instrumental in mobilizing their communities and raising awareness about critical issues such as healthcare access, affordable housing, and education. The goal is to help educate, grow and flourish – whether that is to create a better quality of life, to help build the economy or to fight against unjust acts.
50+ Hispanic and Latino adults bring a historical perspective that is invaluable in public policy discussions, helping to inform decisions that impact not only their generation but also the generations to come. Public policy does not form out of thin air, it takes a group of people who use their voices to advocate for better policies. It’s can start at any age and I’m a big supporter of getting our young scholars to learn how to be civically engaged and instilling in them that they can make a positive difference in their neighborhoods.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
It’s extremely important to have representation in positions of leadership because it serves as a sense of inclusion and creates trust and belonging, even if that means breaking societal norms. We are simply not alone in our experiences, and we have our struggles within our cultures across the board, but it’s an example that we can achieve great things. Seeing a Latino /Hispanic leader shapes how we think about identity and puts us in a position where we can have confidence in ourselves to believe that one day we can put on the same pair of shoes. Representation is a great remedy to help break the negative stereotypes and highlight the significance of being a Latino/Hispanic.
It's imperative to have public servants at the city, state, and federal level reflect the communities they represent and share a common lived experience. Bringing these unique perspectives to the decision-making room directly shapes public policy and ensures our voices are heard.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
New York State has always been one huge melting pot of people from different ethnic backgrounds and we’ve learned to truly embrace diversity and inclusion that has brought us to a healthy space. I say that because it gives us an opportunity for all of us to celebrate each other and to keep our traditions alive. In order to preserve our Hispanic culture, we must stay educated on our ancestral history because it has served as a model for how generations think a certain way and how we’ve gotten to this particular point in life.
Keeping Hispanic/Latino traditions alive for current and future generations is essential for preserving the rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through centuries. One significant way to achieve this is by continuing to celebrate traditional festivals and holidays. Events like Cinco de Mayo, Día De Los Muertos and Hispanic Heritage Month provide opportunities for families to come together, share stories, and pass on customs. Just because there is not a day off from school or work should not take away from importance of our traditions.
Another vital aspect of preserving Hispanic/Latino traditions is passing down culinary heritage. Traditional recipes, often handed down through generations, hold the key to the heart of any culture. Families should make an effort to teach their children how to prepare dishes like tamales, arroz con pollo, or empanadas.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
Historically, Hip-Hop has been a large influence in the Black and Hispanic culture as we lived in a marginalized community where music brought us together and was an outlet to express the harsh environment, we were living in. It dates back to the 60’s and 70s where there was extreme poverty, living in poor urban communities ridden with drugs and violence, was a sad reality. Hispanics and African Americans thrived on being vocal about the shared struggles through experiences and music that brought camaraderie and unity while also focusing the importance and beauty of family and togetherness.
Assembly Member
Manny De Los Santos
Assembly District 72
1. How can 50 plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact in public policy?
Each of us has the privilege of representing diverse communities, which for the most part share the same interests, from adequate housing and healthcare to safe public spaces and a clean environment. We, the Hispanic and Latinx lawmakers, are grateful to share in the power of government to advocate for public policy changes that benefit all New Yorkers.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
Representation matters. Politics can be intimidating for many reasons. However, when New Yorkers see people who look like and share the same vision as them serving in government, they become encouraged to participate in our democracy and civic institutions, which is important. And it also gives us confidence that the seats of power that were historically kept away from certain groups are now very much attainable to all.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
Serving in the New York State Assembly gives me the opportunity to advocate for resources, whether it’s by authoring letters of support or allocating funds, for cultural institutions. My support of public schools and public libraries also is crucial, since these institutions serve as repositories of knowledge about diverse traditions, including Hispanic and Latinx cultures.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
It’s really a beautiful thing if you think about it, how some features of Hispanic and Latinx music have been welcomed by, and found a place, in Hip Hop. Not to mention that in the late 1980s and early 1990s, it’s kids from Hispanic/Latinx, African American and other communities, who would come together in the Bronx and Northern Manhattan, for example, sharing the same dance floors where Hip Hop music evolved and Hip Hop dance could flourish.
Assembly Member
Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas
Assembly District 34
1.How can 50 plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact in public policy?
Older Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers have the lived experience and unique perspective that others lack. I’ve seen so many older Latinx members of the communities I represent advocate for expanding health care coverage to undocumented New Yorkers, fight for street vendors, rally for fair wages for restaurant workers, and so much more. This population also has unique needs that we policymakers must work to address, and their voices and perspectives are crucial to the policymaking process.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
As the first Latina to ever be elected in my Assembly District, which is predominantly Latinx, I know firsthand how important it is to have Hispanic/Latinx representation in public service. The Latinx New Yorkers I represent in Albany know that I will fight for them through the budget process and in legislation I sponsor and support. I understand viscerally many of the challenges that the Latinx community face and the issues that are most important to many of the Latinx families that I represent. I also ensure that my community outreach is culturally and linguistically competent, and that my staff are bilingual.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
I have the privilege of representing extremely diverse Latinx communities in Queens, and I always make sure to uplift and celebrate their small businesses, independence days, cultural events, and more. I regularly mobilize community members to join me in the parades celebrating the independence of Latin American countries, and sponsor events that showcase the cultural traditions of my diverse Latin American community. I feel a great sense of responsibility to highlight these communities, and I make a concerted effort to ensure local Latinx media gives them the attention they deserve so their traditions can become part of recorded New York history.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
Latinx New Yorkers have influenced Hip-Hop since its inception. Whether it is Big Pun, Immortal Technique or Cypress Hill, there’d be no Hip-Hop without the Latinx artists that helped move the genre forward 50 years ago, and the Latinx Hip-Hop artists dominating the scene today. Latinx Hop-Hop artists made it mainstream for people across the country to hear samples of traditional Latinx music, rap in Spanish, and lyrics about Latinx experiences in an unprecedented way.
Assembly Member
Phil Ramos - Deputy Speaker of the New York State Assembly
Assembly District 6
1. How can 50-plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact on public policy?
Our Latino Community has a rich history here in the United States and has fought hard to make historic gains. History plays a huge role in how we can legislate so that we do not make the same mistakes of the past. Our 50-plus Latinos understand that better than any other group and have a vital role to continue to play in our next collective journey. Their insight and first-hand witness to the progress made and the journey still ahead allows us to work towards policies that make our society a better place for us all. Our 50-plus Latinos must continue to advocate and be the mentors and leaders that past generations were.
2. How important is having Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
I am deeply honored to serve as the first Latino Deputy Speaker in the history of the New York State Assembly, a milestone thanks to our collective fight for a seat at the table. Representation in leadership and public service is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is a tangible step towards a more inclusive and equitable society. When our leadership reflects the diversity of our community, it ensures that our voices are not only heard but also actively listened to and understood.
Our experiences, values, and perspectives are unique and deserve acknowledgment in the decision-making process. We understand the challenges and aspirations of our community intimately, and we are committed to addressing the issues that matter most to us – whether it's access to quality education, affordable healthcare, economic opportunities, or social justice.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
During Hispanic Heritage Month, it's a crucial time for our community to come together to celebrate and preserve our rich Latino traditions so that we can pass them on to future generations.
We must ensure that our youth understand the significance of our cultural heritage. This means sharing stories, teaching them about our history, and instilling pride in our traditions. Schools, community centers, and families should actively promote fostering a positive connection to our roots.
Hispanic Heritage Month offers a perfect opportunity to come together as a community. Organize events, festivals, and gatherings where we can showcase our culture, cuisine, and artistic talents. These celebrations create lasting memories and reinforce the importance of family and community.
Together, through education, engagement, and celebration, we can keep our Latino traditions alive and thriving for future generations.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
The Latino community is a melting pot of music, flavors, foods, and much more. Latino culture has profoundly impacted the United States, infusing it with a rich tapestry of traditions, values, and vibrancy. In music and dance, Latino rhythms like salsa, bachata, and reggaeton have infiltrated American pop culture, adding depth and energy to the music scene. Our celebrations, from colorful Carnivals to lively fiestas, have showcased to our neighbors, coworkers, and community the beauty and pride we hold for our Latino heritage and allow us to reflect on our collective journey.
Assembly Member
Karina Reyes
Assembly District 87
1. How can 50 plus Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers make an impact in public policy?
Latinx community members aged 50 plus offer boundless wisdom and can absolutely make an impact in public policy by engaging with relevant organizations and elected officials to communicate their concerns. I think it is important for them to keep track of pertinent policies that affect our older generations, like pensions, retiree benefits, prescription drugs, investments in infrastructure and social services, and generally ensure that the experience of Hispanic and Latinx New Yorkers remain at the forefront of legislators’ minds when they are in Albany. By staying engaged on issues important to them, these New Yorkers continue to improve society by helping steer public policy.
2. How important is it to have Hispanic/Latinx representation as a leader/public servant for the community?
“You can’t be what you can’t see!” When it comes to advocacy, it is extremely important that you have people on the other side of that table who not only look like you, but understand and resonate with the unique needs of the hispanic community. While many individuals look at the Latinx community through a narrow lens on the basis of immigration or language, it is important to note that our community is not monolithic. We are a rather multicultural group with unique needs, and having Latino representation in government permits the growing Latino constituency to increase engagement in policy making conversations– ultimately, uplifting solutions to the challenges of our diverse and complex populations.
3. How do you keep Hispanic/Latinx traditions alive for future generations?
It is vital we keep cultural traditions alive and present. Through oral traditions, we pass on important cultural values that tie the diverse histories and identities of Latino communities. There isn’t a more unifying cultural element among latinx communities that helps bring us together like food. Food has always been at the core of our family and community gatherings. Our culinary traditions are a gastronomical record of where our people have been. Lastly, engaging the youth is critical to the preservation of Latino culture. It remains important that as leaders and community, we provide them with opportunities for exposure and enrichment so that they can know their history and contribute in a meaningful way to the progress of our society.
4. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and we highlight the importance of Hispanic/LatinX influences, how would you describe the impact Hispanic/Latinos have had on the culture?
It’s very exciting to see how Latinx representation has increased in the media and pop culture in recent years. I grew up listening to underground music before it was called “Reggaeton,” so when artists like Daddy Yankee started getting air time on the radio in New York, it was exciting for me to see how Latino urban influences were becoming more mainstream. Since then, Latino sounds have been sampled in an array of pop and urban music, and we have luminaries of Latin culture like Jennifer Lopez (who happens to come from my district) and artists like Bad Bunny and Ruben Blades who have transcended the boundaries of the Latino market and are considered global sensations.
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