Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center (Rancho) prides itself in being an organization that is welcoming and safe for all employees, patients, families, and community members. As such, Rancho is pleased to present various events honoring all cultures. This month we are celebrating Hispanic-Latinx Heritage month 2022.

Americans observe National Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month from September 15^TH through October 15^th. During this time, we highlight how diversity shaped the nation’s past and will continue to shape its future. The nation also recognizes the Hispanic-Latinx leaders who have fought for equal justice to ensure that everyone in this nation can thrive. Histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx Americans are emphasized. It is important to understand that the Hispanic and Latinx population is heterogeneous. The terms, Hispanic and Latinx reflect many cultures, nationalities, and a diversity of encounters. This culture has been enriched by the music, art, literature, and ingenuity of all Hispanic-Latinx people. Our deepest values as a community have been shaped by the love of family that is at the core of so many Hispanic-Latinx communities. These woven contributions help us realize the promise of freedom for all Americans.

Rancho celebrates Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month in honor of our past, present, and future heroes who advocate for change and inspire so many to create an inclusive safe environment for all. Rancho Cultural and Diversity Operations Council has prominently placed multiple poster displays throughout our campus, with the theme of “Be proud of your past Embrace the future.”

In addition, there were two main events held on September 20^th and September 21^st. On September 20, 2022, Rancho organized a panelist Question and Answer presentation featuring employees Oscar Gallardo PT, Brenda Covarrubia OT, and Angelica Lopez, RN who shared their personal stories and accomplishments. Rancho’s keynote speaker Ms. Claudia Frometa, who is the former mayor of Downey and currently a City Council member, also shared her personal story. Each presenter emphasized and empowered a greater understanding and profound appreciation of the enduring contributions of the Hispanic-Latinx presence in our local community. On September 21, 2022, a celebration with the theme of “Be proud of your past Embrace the future” included various food vendors, informational booths, and a dance class all honoring and embodying many different Hispanic nations. All these events were a wonderful and important opportunity for the general public and staff to visualize the contributions and presence of this population. All were able to reflect on the presence of our history and culture, and have conversations, inclusively, about the stories and connections that will continue to inspire generations to come.

For more information, please contact: Joselyn Castro JCastro2@dhs.lacounty.gov