Embracing Your Latinidad: Leadership Lessons for Latino Heritage Month

One of the first things I did when I launched Latinos for Education was establish a set of core values that we would hold ourselves accountable to and infuse through our work with fellows and our community. One of those core values is to lead from our identity. I find this value to be an essential characteristic of Latino leadership because if we cannot show up authentically and bring our culture, background and experiences with us into the spaces we are in, then we can’t be credible leaders. Without embracing who we are, we risk silencing the very parts of us that fuel our strength and leadership. This isn't about never feeling doubt or discomfort—those are universal experiences. But it's about never denying what's in our blood and in our souls.?

Latino Heritage Month is a time of celebration across the United States, but while we have seen a shift from surface-level recognition of food, music and culture, the focus still needs to go deeper. We must move towards recognizing the impact of Latino leaders in our cities and towns across the country.??

Through the fellowships we offer at Latinos for Education, I’ve seen firsthand how shared experiences connect us as Latinos, regardless of where our families come from. Whether from the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, or another part of Latin America, many of us have been the first in our families to graduate college, overcome doubts about our potential, and navigate complex feelings of belonging. Too often, we carry the burden of generational shame—shame tied to our skin color, hair texture, or economic status—passed down by society and, sometimes, by our own families. But as leaders, we have the power and responsibility to break that cycle.?

Nowhere is it more important to break cycles than in education where we are entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the minds and futures of the next generation of Latino children. Celebrating our Latino heritage should not be a matter of 30 days a year. It is an endeavor that requires daily commitment to our students and families.? The teachers, school leaders and families that come through Latinos for Education are changing the narrative and creating new possibilities for future generations.?

In our fellowships, we intentionally build spaces where leaders can explore their identities and experiences in profound ways—spaces I wish I had earlier in my own career. In these sacred spaces, our fellows are encouraged to dig deep, to reflect, and to unlock their potential as transformative leaders. We believe that by nurturing their full selves, they can inspire real change in our communities and beyond.?

Fittingly, this month also marks the beginning of our next class of fellowships at Latinos for Education and a new opportunity to play a role in preparing our educators to assert their presence, lead with their identity, and become advocates for and with Latino children and families.??

So, what have I learned about leading from my Latinidad? Here are three key lessons:?

Own Your Space?

When you’re the sole Latino in the room, don’t just occupy space—assert your presence. This means speaking up, even if your voice quivers. It means confronting the reality that while you may not represent every facet of the Latino experience, you might still be the singular voice advocating for our people. If we don’t speak out, who will? When you have the chance to contribute, do so with the understanding that your voice, your perspective, and your experiences are not just valid—they are essential.?

Restoring oneself in the face of challenging systemic inequities?

Most of you reading this are trying to challenge and change systemic inequities. It is a lifelong endeavor so know that it’s ok to take time to recharge. In fact, it’s necessary. An important aspect of Latino culture that most can identify with is to, “seguir en la lucha” – “continue the fight” - because our families didn’t and don’t have a choice to stop.? For many years, I felt like I couldn’t stop, but I learned that your body and mind will stop you if you don’t take the time to refuel. Give yourself permission and move past the guilt.??

Lead with Your Identity?

Finally, show up with your full identity and let your Latinidad shine through in your leadership. Embracing our Latinidad is not just a personal stance—it’s a strategic advantage. Our unique perspectives are assets that can fuel transformative change in the spaces we occupy, and they should infuse every aspect of our leadership.?

Our communities rely on our voices and our relentless commitment to justice and representation. This Latino Heritage Month, I challenge you to join me in a commitment to leading boldly and authentically. Together – Latinos and non-Latinos alike – we are capable of paving the way to a future where Latino leadership is not only recognized but celebrated far beyond the months of September and October. One where we continue to break barriers and inspire progress, making a lasting impact on our communities and beyond.?