Conexión Américas hosts Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

The first woman to fly a motorized aircraft. The researcher who discovered the cause of yellow fever. Both are Hispanics and we honor their achievements during Hispanic Heritage month which begins September 15. We also celebrate lesser known but no less important people here in Nashville. Latinos who work every day to improve our community. Our neighbors.

At Conexion Americas, we help thousands of Latino families every year, educating them on how to buy a home, start a business or improve their English skills. We’re a non-profit organization working toward the economic, social and civic integration of Latinos in Middle Tennessee. During Hispanic Heritage month we’re recognizing four of Nashville’s unsung Latino heroes with the third annual “Orgullo Hispano” (Hispanic Pride) award. The winners are individuals who work persistently and passionately to improve our community. They lead by example and inspire others to get involved through their commitment to helping others. The 2010 winners will be announced on September 15th.

In the past, we have recognized people like Rosa Del Villar, who then was responsible for training all new hires in the housekeeping department at Gaylord Opryland. A single mother, Rosa worked two jobs to support her family, and she made time during her day to help her co-workers learn English. It’s easy to understand why she was held up as an example to other employees.

Publicly recognizing these heroes for being an “Orgullo Hispano” is just one way we celebrate Hispanic Heritage month. We also have an essay contest for local high school students who will reflect on their Hispanic roots and their American dreams.

You can help us celebrate Hispanic Heritage month by remembering the unsung Hispanic heroes who work behind the scenes and help make Nashville such a great place to live.

You can also support our work through the purchase of Rumba Roast coffee.

About the Author:
Renata Soto is the Executive Director of Conexion Americas, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the economic, social and civic integration of Hispanics here in Middle Tennessee.