In a heartfelt moment during the Lynnwood City Council meeting, a council member shared a personal reflection on the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month. Standing before the council and community members, she spoke passionately about her journey as a first-generation high school and college graduate, emphasizing the sacrifices made by her family and the strength of her cultural roots.

"This celebration is personal for me," she began, her voice resonating with emotion. She highlighted that Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a time to honor those who paved the way but also an opportunity to recognize the dreams that continue to be built today. Her story, she noted, is just one piece of the larger narrative of the American dream—an ideal that thrives on hard work, community support, and the belief that each generation can achieve more than the last.

As she reflected on her own experiences, she encouraged others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face, including language barriers. "Don't let anyone tell you that you can't," she urged, drawing on a powerful Hispanic saying that has guided her throughout her life. Her message was clear: dreams are universal, transcending color, race, and ethnicity.

The council member's words served as a reminder of the resilience and cultural richness that Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates. As the meeting continued, her call to honor the past while shaping a brighter future resonated deeply, leaving attendees inspired to embrace their own journeys and the diverse stories that make up their community.