Hispanic Heritage Month is special in the border region of El Paso. In honor of the month, UTEP athlete Leslie Gutierrez chooses to celebrate by being surrounded by her family.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the start of Hispanic Heritage Month dates to 1968 and has continued since.
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on Sept. 15 and ending on Oct. 15. It was enacted into law on Aug. 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. according to the United States Census Bureau.
UTEP soccer forward and midfielder Leslie Gutierrez is a senior majoring in criminal justice with a minor in communications.
Born and raised in El Paso, Gutierrez frequently crossed into Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. She said she experienced the firsthand struggle of being bullied for her heavy accent, but always knew that she had family to support her.
“It’s important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month because there’s a lot of factors that come into it and just representing your grandparents, even your own parents, just being able to tell people your roots, just being able to show I’m a Mexican, I’m Hispanic and I’m proud of it,” said Gutierrez.
Being proud of one’s heritage is seen throughout this month. Gutierrez incorporates her heritage onto the field.
“On the field, basically giving my all and just being able to be a winner with my teammates and just the excitement to show up for my city and representing my family,” said Gutierrez.
Whether it is celebrating with cooking food or being with family, taking the time to learn about one’s culture is vital during Hispanic Heritage Month. Gutierrez believes that it is important to celebrate the month with family.
“I celebrate Hispanic Heritage month by just being with my family and cooking Mexican food and just being with each other,” said Gutierrez.
Gutierrez believes that one should be confident in one’s heritage and who they are as a person.
Being proud of her roots, Gutierrez knows how to incorporate it on the field, in her education and within her family.
Hispanic Heritage Month started Sept. 15 and ends Oct. 15. However, Hispanic heritage never ends as it is celebrated throughout the culture of El Paso.
Avery Escamilla-Wendell is a contributor for The Prospector and may be reached at [email protected]; @by_avery_escamilla
