While Hispanic Heritage Month has come to an end, that does not mean that we stop celebrating Hispanic Heritage. In today’s article, Juan Felipe Valencia ’26, a Colombian international student majoring in Business Management at Albertus Magnus College, discusses his Colombian heritage and what Hispanic Heritage Month means to him.
Colombia’s diversity and rich cultural traditions shine brightly during Hispanic Heritage Month. As someone with Colombian roots, I always cherish this time to honor my background. Hispanic culture permeates daily life in Colombia, from the food to the music to the strong sense of community. Celebrations like Independence Day and Carnival showcase the country’s spirit and pride. Family is the cornerstone, and events like baptisms, birthdays, and weddings center around sharing meals, stories, and blessings passed down through generations. Religious festivals like Easter and Christmas overflow with reverent rituals. Artisans keep folk arts like pottery, weaving, and metalwork thriving. Watching dancers in traditional clothing or hearing cumbia beats connects me to my ancestors. While Colombia faces many challenges, its people persevere with hope and joy. Hispanic Heritage Month reminds me to take pride in my Colombian identity and remember the values of faith, family, and culture that run through my veins.