Honoring My Heritage: A Journey in Healthcare?

Author: Dr. Sarah Lopez

Hispanic Heritage Month —

Is like the scent of warm cinnamon and chocolate on a cool morning, the vivid jewel tones of pinks, yellows, purples, and blues that stand out, the warmth of our hospitality after a long journey, the melody of a guitar floating in the air, sometimes mingled with the laughter of friends.

But it’s also the scent of mud and wet grass at dawn, the unseen labor that keeps society in motion, long hours in one job, only to prepare for another, the hum of drills, lawnmowers, vacuums, sometimes mixed with the words: do you belong?

As Latinos we are in a tale of two cities, with sharp contrasts in experiences, but our resolve and resilience is shared. While some of us thrive in spaces of opportunity, others still face the daily struggle of being unseen and unheard. Despite these divides, our shared resilience and unity bind us together. Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a celebration of the rich history and contributions of Latinos in the U.S., but also of the strength we’ve cultivated in the face of adversity, and the strong community that holds us up.

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Zócalo Health was born from this understanding. We recognized that the healthcare system often fails to meet the needs of Latino families, leaving them to navigate a landscape not designed with them in mind. That’s why we built Zócalo Health—not just to offer clinical services but to provide culturally competent care that resonates with our people. Our Promotoras de Salud, trusted community health workers, have been instrumental in connecting with patients on a deeper level, addressing not only their medical concerns but also their Social Drivers of Health (SDoH). For many Latinos, access to healthcare is about more than seeing a doctor—it’s about finding someone who understands their lived experiences, their language, and their values.

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One of the ways we have made preventive care more accessible is through our Cafecito, Cumbia y Salud events. These gatherings are designed to educate the community on the importance of preventive care and normalize health conversations in a way that feels approachable and culturally relevant. Our most recent Cafecito in Los Angeles, held on Sept 26th at the @Guerilla tacos, was more than just a health fair—it was a space where community leaders like Vanessa Villaverde and Janet B. along with Zócalo members, all from different backgrounds, came together with a shared goal of learning and celebrating our culture, as the Mariachi played in the background. By incorporating music, culture, and familiar traditions, we create an environment where people can learn about their health in a way that resonates with them, breaking down the barriers of intimidation that often surround healthcare.

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s also celebrate the strides we are making in healthcare, and the ways we are showing up for one another, just as we always have. Through initiatives like Cafecitos, Cumbia y Salud and the work of Zócalo Health, we are building a future where every Latino family can access care that speaks to their soul, with dignity and respect. Because not only are we here, but we belong, and are moving toward a healthier, more inclusive future.

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