Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Traditions, Contributions, and Future Visions

Hispanic Heritage Month offers a profound opportunity to celebrate the rich tapestry of traditions and contributions from Hispanic communities. This time of reflection and celebration allows us to honor the cultural relevance of Hispanic heritage through vibrant festivities and personal stories. From gathering with family over traditional dishes to advocating for community events that highlight Hispanic achievements, the month is filled with both personal and professional celebrations. Looking ahead, there is a vision for evolving these festivities to foster greater cultural exchange and recognition of Hispanic contributions. By weaving these stories into the broader cultural fabric, we ensure that Hispanic Heritage Month remains a dynamic and influential celebration for generations to come.

Riding Through Time: A 10th Grader’s Journey on Highway 76 in 1990

In the spring of 1990, as a 10th grader, I embarked on serene bus rides from Pauma Valley, a time for reflection amidst untouched landscapes. Fast forward to today, Highway 76 buzzes with activity, transforming from tranquil stretches to lively scenes due to flourishing casinos. Among these memories, one Saturday stands out—the day of my first driver’s education class, marked by anticipation and the calming presence of Mr. Thompson. His simple wisdom, “Everyone’s a beginner once,” eased my nerves, leaving a lasting impression.

A Moment of Pride & Gratitude: 23 Years as an American Citizen

Twenty three years ago, I remember the feeling of elation and certainty that came with becoming a Citizen of the United States. As I repeated each word after the judge, taking my oath to become an American Citizen, I felt like all my life up until this moment had been leading me here. As I …

From Traversing a Border to Living the American Dream

As a 1 1/2 year old, I was carried in my parents’ arms as we crossed the treacherous Mexican-American border. Despite the dangers and risks, my parents were determined to provide me with a better life. However, their journey was not without challenges. They narrowly escaped being caught by Border Patrol agents, but their determination …

Thanksgiving Is A Time To Give Thanks For All The People Who Have Helped Us Grow

Happy Thanksgiving Day! It’s a special day like today that I hope for all people that they have a wonderful day full of love, laughter, and good food. This is certainly a time to be thankful for all that we have in our lives. But it’s also a time to celebrate who we are and …

Stay Motivated When Others Try To Bring You Down

In 1989, I was elated when I received the American Legion Award at my 8th grade graduation at Pauma School. It was a great honor to be recognized for my academic achievements, especially after spending the year before recovering from scoliosis surgery, and despite that it would be a decade before I would be sworn …

Self-Advocacy: Why Head Down,Working Hard Is Not Enough

As an immigrant child, I remember seeing my parents working long hours and striving for the American dream. They sacrificed so much to give me and my siblings opportunities that we never would have had in México. They would say, “in this country, give it all that you have, and you will be rewarded.” Later …

America: Where the impossible becomes possible.

Rafael Larios: “It was a long and arduous journey, but we finally made it to the United States. We had risked everything to come here, fleeing our home in search of a better life. Crossing the border was only the beginning – now we had to start from scratch in a new country, learn a …

Hello! My name is Robert Larios

Leadership is a journey, not a destination. It’s a role that we step into, and often it’s a role that we’re forced into. We don’t always choose to be leaders, but when we are, it’s our responsibility to lead with integrity and authenticity. I am a Mexican immigrant on an American leadership journey. I didn’t …