Our roots can influence us in ways we may not always recognize. As a Mexican American, my culture is woven into many parts of who I am. It can be found in the traditions my family has passed down, the language I grew up hearing, the food we share, and the values that continue to shape me. These connections to my heritage are part of what make exploring my roots so meaningful.

Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 through October 15, provides an opportunity to celebrate these connections while recognizing the rich diversity of Hispanic and Latinx communities. For me, it is a time to reflect on where I come from, the people and traditions that have influenced me, and what I hope to carry forward.

While Hispanic and Latinx communities share many cultural connections, each person’s experience is unique. Our backgrounds, family traditions, languages, and experiences can all shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. These experiences can also influence how we approach our health and navigate healthcare.

For people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), having access to information and resources that are available in Spanish and are relevant to the experiences of the Hispanic/Latinx community can be especially valuable. MSAA offers several resources designed to provide information, education, and support to Spanish-speaking individuals and the broader Hispanic/Latinx MS community.

Resources for the Hispanic/Latinx community

• MSAA Spanish-language resources- MSAA provides support, informational materials, and publications in Spanish. To explore these Spanish-language resources, please visit: mymsaa.org/ms-information/spanish.
• MSAA Hispanic/Latinx Advisory Council: Learn more about MSAA’s work to address barriers and improve culturally relevant MS resources for the Hispanic/Latinx community by visiting: mymsaa.org/about-msaa/hispanic-latinx-advisory-council/.
• MSAA Helpline: Spanish-speaking Client Services Specialists are available at (800) 532-7667, ext. 131. For more information on MSAA’s Helpline, please visit: mymsaa.org/msaa-help/helpline-chat/.
• National Hispanic Heritage Month: Explore the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities through resources from the Library of Congress, Smithsonian Institution, National Archives, National Park Service, and other federal organizations. To learn more, please visit: hispanicheritagemonth.gov/index.html.

Hispanic Heritage Month can be a time to celebrate where we come from and the experiences that have shaped us. It can also be an opportunity to learn more about the histories and cultures of the communities around us.

For me, exploring my roots means appreciating the traditions and values that have been passed down through my family, while also recognizing that I can create new traditions of my own. Our roots connect us to our past, but they can also help shape the future we create.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, I hope we can take time to celebrate our diverse backgrounds, learn from one another, and recognize the many ways our cultures and communities continue to enrich our lives.