“Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month means taking pride in your identity and not trying to minimize your heritage to fit into anyone else's narrative or expectations.”
September 15 to October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the many contributions and accomplishments of the Latino(a)(e)(x) and Hispanic community. Naima Clark works as a Junior Management Assistant in the Power Enterprise at the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). Naima is proud to be Black and Mexican, with her family roots stretching far and wide, from Ohio and Philadelphia to Mexicali and Zacatecas. “What I am most proud of regarding my culture is the resilience, diversity, and unity of blending my cultures. Growing up within this multicultural framework has taught me the power of adaptability and the beauty of honoring multiple histories,” she said.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
For Naima, celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month means taking pride in your identity and not trying to minimize your heritage to fit into anyone else's narrative or expectations. “It's about embracing the fullness of our identities, the beauty of our languages and traditions, and recognizing that Latina is not a monolith; we come from various backgrounds, races, and experiences, each contributing something valuable to the larger community,” she explained.
From soulful music and powerful storytelling to rich foods and colorful celebrations, Naima’s cultural heritage is a constant source of inspiration and pride. “It's about embracing the beauty of both worlds and understanding how they interconnect, creating a unique narrative that shapes who I am today.”
Inspirational Influence
As a Garifuna journalist and founder of “Ain’t I Latina?”, Janel Martinez has had a significant influence on Naima’s life. Janel Martinez has been a vocal advocate for Afro-Latina representation in media, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. “She has influenced my life since launching her blog in 2013, where Black Latina women could connect with other people in a space that affirms our identities and celebrates the diversity within the Afro-Latina community,” Naima said.
Naima goes on to say that while she was growing up, there was not a lot of media representation of people who looked like her. “Janel Martinez became a beacon for me, someone who validated my experience and provided a platform where our voices could be heard. She encouraged me to embrace my identity fully and to take pride in the complexities of being both Black and Latina,” she explained.
Advice for the Next Generation
Naima offers her wisdom to other young Latino(a)(e)(x) and Hispanic individuals looking to have a career in the utilities industry to be unapologetically themselves. She encourages them to not be afraid to display their heritage that reflects their culture, nor be afraid to speak their language with pride. “Authenticity is your strength, and bringing your whole self to work enhances the work environment. There are people in the office who appreciate being able to connect and relate to colleagues who share their experiences or bring diverse perspectives,” she said.
Naima also encourages the next up and coming generation to seek mentors and allies who support their growth and understand the importance of representation. “Remember that your unique perspective and experiences are valuable. They provide fresh insights that can drive positive change in an industry that needs more inclusive voices. Build a support network with other professionals who share your background or are committed to promoting diversity. Never feel pressured to conform or minimize who you are to fit in.”