By Sergio Perez
TAMPA – Several leaders in the Latino community in Tampa spoke about ways Latinos can create change and positively impact society at a panel discussion in October at Soul de Cuba Café in Tampa.
The panel consisted of Beatriz Padilla, Diego Dulanto Falcon, Jesus Puerto, Lydia Medrano, and Clara Buie. The panelists spoke about challenges they have faced, the impacts of Hispanic Heritage Month, and what Latinos can do to get more involved.
Medrano, Ph.D. and the Director of Florida District One League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), offered insight on how to get involved in the community. “We need to be present where important decisions are made that impact us”, said Medrano. “We need to become better advocates of our community. If we don’t do it, who’s going to do it for us?” Medrano urged Latinos to get involved in city councils.
The panelists shared where they were from and some cultural traditions they practiced. Padilla, an Associate professor at the University of South Florida (USF) who serves as the Director of the Institute for the Study of Latin America and the Caribbean (ISLAC) later suggested that despite their differences “(Latinos) should be united.”
Buie touched on Latinos not representing a majority of the population and the challenges that are introduced when trying to make a difference. “Just because we’re a smaller percentage doesn’t mean those challenges can’t be voiced,” said Buie.
She also offered insight on mentorship. “A good mentor will never tell you what to do. A good mentor will guide you,” she said. Buie serves as the assistant vice president for Student Success at USF.
The speakers gave an insightful guide to Latinos of all ages and backgrounds on not only the importance of getting involved but also how to get involved.