Just as flowers grow and prosper in groups and healthy environments, so too do people. This is true of all of us, and especially for the collective I find myself in as a female, minority entrepreneur.
As the daughter of a Mexican immigrant and of Jewish heritage, I spent my formative years trying to fit in. Playing small. Ignoring my roots.
With time, I found my true power came from the sturdy foundation of my make-up. Now, as a leader in Chicago’s business and non-profit communities, my roots are what both keep me centered and allow me to grow.
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to celebrate what makes me, me, with an eclectic group of fellow Latina leaders, and local entrepreneurs and innovators, at an event I co-hosted, Hasta la Raíz (To the Root).
The day was inspiring. Latina business owners put their talents on display with the event planning, décor and fare, while the late Selena blared from the venue’s speakers. As the event got underway, the room was filled with thoughtful conversation and the overwhelming sense of connection, empowerment and joy.
As we enter Hispanic Heritage Month, it is a timely reminder for me of the power our city’s most marginalized and undervalued people possess. When we come together, beautiful things happen.
Seeing the division and hate spewing throughout Chicago breaks my heart. While these are nationwide issues, we have to start the repair work at home and believe we can.
As leaders, we set the standard of acceptance of all. I ask that those who guide do so with love, rather than with animosity. We can be inclusive without being exclusive. We can disagree without being disagreeable.
Chicago is rich with culture, creativity and a hustler mentality. Like at Hasta la Raíz, when we take care of one another, when we use our differences to forge breakthroughs, and when we honor our roots, we are a force of good.
We owe it to those who came before us, and those who will come after.
Thank you to the fellow small businesses — some female- and minority-owned, some local and all exceptional — that brought Hasta la Raíz to life:
· Julianna Pressley Photography
· René Avila’s Afro-Cuban Quintet
· Sommaroy Spirits
