Enjoying Hispanic Heritage Month with the Community

October 16, 2023


I have spent the past few weeks celebrating the rich culture and contributions of Latinos for Hispanic Heritage Month. I cannot express into words how much fun I’ve had meeting members of the community and learning about their stories of success right here in Waterbury.
Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz visited the 75th district last Friday to celebrate and tried some tasty food at the brand new Via al Paraiso Bar & Grill on Grand Street. We also stopped by Spirit Café on Bank Street and Concierge Benefits, a new business on East Main Street!
 
A couple of weeks prior, the Hispanic Student Union at Naugatuck Valley Community College recognized me at a special ceremony on campus. The union unveiled a plaque with my picture and story as I joined a distinguished group of fellow alumni who have gone on to help our community is so many ways.
Thank you to the Hispanic Student Union for allowing me to be an honorary member of the club!

When I was a young man, I took pre-technical courses to get into college. Once I passed, I became a student at Naugatuck Valley Community College and received financial aid to pay for my degree.

I graduated a couple of years later and landed a job at Pratt & Whitney. I give credit to God, my family, and my teachers for seeing my potential, which lead to a 36-year career in manufacturing.
 

In Hartford, my colleagues and I came together to encourage the Hispanic community to take advantage of the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Program. It allows individuals to receive income replacement benefits while taking time off to take care of yourself or a loved one or welcoming a new member to the family. You can also use the program if you need to take time off to address your mental health.

Paid Family and Medical Leave helps individuals, families, and businesses all over Connecticut. The benefits can help you pay your bills during a great change in your life.
Listen to my brief speech breaking down the importance of Paid Leave.
The week prior, Latino state lawmakers discussed the accomplishments and progress of the Hispanic and Puerto Rican communities at a Latino Leadership Roundtable at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

We dug deeper into the significance of cultural activism and historical preservation as we highlighted our Hispanic, Latino, and Puerto Rican heritage.

Thank you to everyone who celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month and to those who support Latinos in Waterbury and the rest of the world.