“You don’t look Latina” – A phrase I’ve heard too often, attempting to define my identity. As the daughter of immigrants and a child welfare professional, I’ve learned that identity is complex, especially for the diverse families we serve in the child welfare system. As September starts Hispanic Heritage Month, I wanted to reflect on how this understanding has been my life’s driving force and shapes my approach to child welfare.
My journey as an Afro-Latina is both beautiful and complex. Being the CEO of a national child welfare organization is my ancestors’ wildest dream realized. Yet, it’s important to note that Latinas remain underrepresented in management and professional roles, comprising only about 7% of these positions. This underrepresentation extends to the child welfare system, affecting how we serve our diverse communities.
Our strength lies in our diversity. The Latinx experience in America is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, histories, and identities – from Afro-Latinos to Chicanos, from recent immigrants to families with generations of history here. This diversity is reflected in the families we serve and requires a nuanced, culturally responsive approach to child welfare.
My personal journey (opens in a new window)Opens in a new tabOpens in a new tab has taught me the importance of embracing all aspects of one’s identity. We recognize that terms like Hispanic, Latino, Latinx, or Chicano carry unique significance for different individuals. Our organization honors these personal choices and strives to create an environment where every family in the child welfare system feels seen, heard, and valued.
This month, we renew our dedication to diversity in child welfare by:
- Celebrating Hispanic and Latino cultures in our child welfare practices.
- Recognizing Latinx contributions to child welfare.
- Advocating for equitable policies in the child welfare system.
- Addressing challenges Latinx families face in child welfare.
- Promoting culturally competent practices for Latinx children in care.
- Increasing Latinx representation in child welfare roles.
For Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s start by recognizing Latinx representation. Diversity in child welfare makes a difference.
Marisele Esperance (opens in a new window)Opens in a new tabOpens in a new tab – Diligent Recruitment Advisor, National Center for Diligent Recruitment
Marisele leads efforts to improve outcomes for children and youth in foster care. She provides free services to states, tribes, and territories, helping them transform their approach to developing and implementing strategic, data-driven diligent recruitment plans for foster and adoptive families. Marisele is also a graduate of the Minority Professional Leadership Development program (MPLD).
Julia Eusebio, MSW (opens in a new window)Opens in a new tabOpens in a new tab – Coaching Specialist, Families Rising
With over eight years of child welfare experience and as a dedicated Latinx community member, Julia drives systemic change and promotes racial equity. Her expertise in community communication, program development, and strategic problem-solving supports CWEL’s mission. Julia focuses on identifying effective coaching models to enhance workforce retention, engagement, and well-being in the child welfare sector.
Phoenix Santiago, MSW (opens in a new window)Opens in a new tabOpens in a new tab – Youth Engagement Manager, New England Association of Child Welfare Commissioners and Directors, Baker Center. Phoenix facilitates the National Youth Engagement Advisory Council and provides technical assistance to Quality Improvement Center on Engaging Youth in Finding Permanency (QIC-EY) pilot sites. With over 20 years of experience rooted in her own lived experience, Phoenix has been a frontline worker, program planner, implementer, evaluator, and community organizer. Phoenix’s diverse background in child welfare and community work drives her passion for improving outcomes for youth in the system. This month Phoenix will graduate from MPLD.
As we continue to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let us embrace the beauty in diversity and the strength of our shared humanity. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for all families.
Thank you for being part of our Families Rising community. Remember, our commitment to diversity and inclusion is not just for a month, but a year-round endeavor.
Ligia