As Latino/a Heritage Month comes to a close and we reflect on the celebrations of our histories, cultures, and contributions of Latino/as, we consider the importance of recognizing the progress made by generations before us across all races, ethnic cultures, and communities.
At ABC, we are reassured by the diversity, unity, and common values among our partners to fight against all forms of oppression and discrimination. We are also encouraged by our young people and the next generation who offer an opportunity to honor our past while envisioning a future our communities deserve.
We are grateful to the numerous leaders who work hard every day to better our communities and protect our progress. They pave the way for the next generation and influence our children to continue the march toward a brighter future.
We reached out to experts, community organizers, and parent leaders to highlight the legacy being carried out by their children – our future leaders. In case you missed it on our social media:
Reflections from The Next Generation
“…One of the best ways we as Latinos can better equip ourselves for the future is by building strong connections. Sometimes we may think that we have to do it all on our own, but that is not the only way to be a hard worker. It is so important to uplift and support one another because at the end of the day we all want to succeed.”
-Marcus Roldan, son of Elmer Roldan, Executive Director of Communities in Schools of Los Angeles
“We [the younger generation] are the ones who have the most strength when it comes to advocating for our communities. [We are the ones that] will create a strong and assertive new generation ready to fight back against racism and corruption at the highest levels and foster safer and healthier Latino communities.”
-Maritza Ramirez, from the Los Angeles area currently a student at UC Berkeley
“The most important value that my parents have taught me is respect. I respect everyone who surrounds me…By respecting other cultures, I can make good friendships with others that are different from me.”
-Camille Velasco, daughter of parent leader, Irma Lopez
A shared value among the next generation of Latino/a leaders is the willingness to work together. Los Angeles leaders must work together to build a region that is inclusive, equitable, and just for all. With the knowledge of past and current champions, our future Latino/a leaders are uniquely positioned to advance a prosperous Los Angeles through power and coalition building that is essential to the health and vitality of Los Angeles.