We’re proud to celebrate Hispanic culture, heritage, and traditions all year long, but especially this month. We sat down with Allison, sixth-grader at Elm City College Prep Elementary, to hear what Hispanic Heritage Month means to her.

Tell us about yourself. What do you like to do for fun?
I’m 10 years old. I’m in sixth grade, and I live with my mother, uncle, cousin, and aunt. In my family, we like to help each other and go on different adventures like going to the zoo, swimming, hiking and maybe playing some sports. We also visit other relatives. I love my family, and I really need them in my life.

That sounds great! What’s your Hispanic heritage?
My family is from El Salvador. It’s a small country in Central America, and it’s a very beautiful place. There is a lot of culture there. My grandmother always talks about El Salvador and shows me photos.

We’d love to visit El Salvador one day! Do you speak another language at home?
I mostly just speak Spanish at home because my parents only speak Spanish. They speak a little English, so I teach them new words.

That’s so nice! What’s your favorite food?
Oh I can go on and on about food! I love tamales—the chicken kind with salsa. I love popusas, too. Popusas have cheese inside, and they’re so delicious!

Yum! Popusas are so delicious! What do you want to be when you grow up?
I think I want to be an animator because I love to draw. Or maybe I’ll be a chef because I love cooking. I’ll make food from El Salvador, but also from other Hispanic countries.

Okay, last question. Why do you think it’s important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?
It’s important because you want people to recognize your culture and appreciate it. There’s more to being Hispanic than you think. Latinos are very social, and we love each other very much.

Thank you for sharing, Allison!