Yanilka Soto-Muniz, Graduate Student in the Nakamura Lab

Gladstonians reflect on the challenges and triumphs in STEM for the Latinx community

 

Latinx Heritage Month (or Hispanic Heritage Month) is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15, to highlight the important contributions of Latinx people in the United States. Hispanics comprise about 17 percent of the workforce in the US. Yet, they make up only 8 percent of those working in STEM.

In celebration of the month, Latinx Gladstonians share their journeys, the importance of representation, and what the holiday means to them.

Rosmely Hernandez
Postdoctoral Scholar, Marson Lab

“

The Latinx population is largely underrepresented in the sciences. For many who leave their country for better job opportunities or for their children, it might seem that pursuing a career in the sciences is unreachable, as this field is often considered to be a difficult one to enter.

Working in this field means I’m giving hope to the current and future Latinx generations.

For me, working in this field means I’m giving hope to the current and future Latinx generations and reaffirms that it is possible to pursue a career that might seem unattainable.

Alessandra Rios Canelo
Benefits Coordinator

“

As a proud Latina with strong Peruvian roots, Latinx Heritage Month holds deep meaning for me. This month is an opportunity to celebrate the rich tapestry of Latinx cultures, acknowledge the importance of representation, and honor the contributions of Latinx individuals to American society.

It's a time to reflect on our heritage, share our traditions, and inspire the next generation to break barriers and succeed.

It's a time to reflect on our heritage, share our traditions, and inspire the next generation to break barriers and succeed, all while fostering unity within our diverse community. Latinx Heritage Month is a reminder of our shared resilience and the role we play in shaping a more inclusive and vibrant future for everyone. ¡Viva la cultura latina!

Yanilka Soto-Muniz
Graduate Student, Nakamura Lab

“

When I was younger, I knew that I really liked science, but I didn't know that I could be a scientist or that I could obtain a PhD. Growing up in Puerto Rico, I wasn't used to seeing many people obtaining graduate education. It wasn't until college that I realized this was a possibility for me.

Representation... means having a diverse team of people who bring diverse perspectives to solve complex research questions.

This month, we celebrate the Latinx Heritage Month, and this is an opportunity to remind all of us that representation matters. It's about seeing someone else who looks like you and thinking, “I can do that too.” And representation doesn't only mean having role models for the next generation. It also means having a diverse team of people who bring diverse perspectives to solve complex research questions. And it means that everyone, no matter their background, can find their place and make a difference.

Irma Hernandez
Events Manager

“

Celebrating Latinx Heritage Month each year means so much to me, as it reminds me to reflect on my family’s journey to the states, traditions, and culture. I love seeing how much my family has accomplished and how much we’ve contributed to this country.

I love seeing how much my family has accomplished and how much we’ve contributed to this country.

It’s great to be able to celebrate and share Latinx culture with others through literature, music, and food. It brings me joy to see others embrace and enjoy the things I grew up with.

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