National Hispanic Heritage Month 2020 begins on September 15 and ends on October 15. This time celebrates and recognizes the contributions Hispanic Americans have made to American society and culture.
KAZZANDRA
For this blog, I will be referring to Hispanic Heritage Month as Latinx Heritage Month because I do not like the word “Hispanic.” To learn more about why, read this article.
Since moving away to Colorado, I have been more intentionally reading more books authored by people of Latinx descent. I always felt at home when reading Spanglish texts, learning to cook with the book Decolonize Your Diet, and reading Gloria Anzaldua’s borderlands theory. In college, Latinx Heritage Month meant learning more about history, shopping from Latinx-owned businesses, and raising awareness through advocacy efforts. Although I am still dedicated to these actions, the meaning of Latinx Heritage Month has started to change into something more personal and beautiful.
Kazzandra’s altar to honor her ancestors.
About a year ago, I really dived deep into my own spiritual journey. This is where I found, connected with, and honored my ancestors. Because I carry both the blood of my Indigenous and Spanish ancestors, I honor both sides and find that there is so much to heal within that relationship alone. I learn from their pain, triumphs, and – most of all – resilience.
Latinx Heritage Month has turned into a daily connection and course of action for me. Every day, I bring an offering and sit at my ancestral altar to feel their love and receive their guidance. I strongly believe it is up to us to not only read about major Latinx people in history, but to also honor and learn from the ones in our own lineage; and more importantly ask for forgiveness on behalf of our colonizing and dishonorable ancestors as well.
I strongly believe it is up to us to not only read about major Latinx people in history, but to also honor and learn from the ones in our own lineage; and more importantly ask for forgiveness on behalf of our colonizing and dishonorable ancestors as well.
If you’re still reading this, I invite you to connect with your ancestors! What I do is close my eyes, take a few deep breaths, and invite them by saying, “I would like to call in and thank my well and bright [or honorable] ancestors. I ask for your guidance [or whatever it is you are seeking] today.” I hope this brings you peace.
Written by Change Specialist Kazzandra Medellin
