Hispanic Heritage Month: An Interview with Revenue.io’s Carlos Tejada

I had an excellent conversation with Carlos Tejada, IT Manager at Revenue.io, about the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month. Here are some of his reflections about his experience as part of the Latinx community.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, achievements, and contributions of the Latinx communities. It’s an opportunity to reflect on our shared history and the diverse cultures, languages, and traditions that make up the Latinx diaspora. It’s also a time to promote awareness and understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by this community.

Who do you look up to in the Latinx community?

There are countless inspiring figures in the Latinx community, including artists, activists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders in various fields. Some well-known figures include Sonia Sotomayor, Cesar Chavez, and Dolores Huerta. However, many individuals, like myself, find inspiration closer to home, in their families, teachers, and local community leaders who have made a positive impact.

What’s something most people may not know about the Latinx community?

Something often overlooked about the Latinx community is the vast range of cultural expressions and influences within it. While it’s commonly associated with Spanish-speaking countries, this community comprises diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous, African, European, and Asian heritages. This diversity enriches our traditions, music, cuisine, and art, making the Latinx cultural tapestry incredibly vibrant and multifaceted.

What would you like to highlight about your own heritage?

As a Dominican growing up in the vibrant cultural mosaic of New York City, I take immense pride in my heritage. What I would like to highlight about my Dominican heritage is the profound sense of community, warmth, and resilience that characterizes us. From the lively rhythms of merengue and bachata that fill our streets to the delicious aroma of Dominican cuisine wafting from local eateries, our culture is deeply embedded in the heart of this city. Moreover, the experiences of Dominican New Yorkers, like myself, reflect the immigrant journey, with stories of hard work, determination, and the pursuit of the American Dream. It’s a heritage that has shaped me and countless others, contributing to the rich variations of cultures that make NYC so special.

What’s it like being a Latinx in tech?

Being a Latino in the tech industry can be both rewarding and challenging. On one hand, it offers opportunities to bring diverse perspectives and ideas to the table, fostering innovation. However, it also means navigating potential biases or stereotypes. Promoting diversity and inclusion in tech is crucial to ensuring that everyone has an equal chance to succeed and contribute to the industry.

Which organizations would you like to feature for Hispanic Heritage Month?

• Voto Latino: Voto Latino encourages political participation and civic engagement among young Latinos, striving to increase their representation in the political process.
• Latino Victory Fund: Latino Victory Fund is a political organization dedicated to increasing Latino representation in American politics. Their work promotes diversity and inclusivity in American governance.
• The Hispanic Institute: The Hispanic Institute is a nonprofit organization focused on research and education to advance the economic and social well-being of the Hispanic community in the United States.