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I am a Latina woman, born in the Dominican Republic into a low-income family. Growing up, I witnessed the struggles of poverty and the strength of community. My racial identity has evolved, especially after moving to the United States, where I became more aware of how race and ethnicity shape social experiences. Now in my mid-30s, I feel more confident, reflective, and committed to personal and professional growth. Life has taught me valuable lessons, and I continue to learn from the people around me every day.

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Using Sue & Sue’s Racial/Cultural Identity Development Model, I identify most with the Introspection Stage. I have moved beyond rejecting dominant culture and now seek a balanced understanding of both my Dominican heritage and the multicultural environment I live in. For example, I embrace my cultural traditions while also respecting and learning from others’ backgrounds. I no longer feel the need to choose sides but value diversity and inclusion.

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I have always identified as a woman and feel empowered by my gender identity. I embrace femininity while also challenging traditional gender roles, especially in my professional life as a family advocate, where I advocate for families and children.

I am heterosexual and have been married for 11 years to a loving husband. Our relationship is built on mutual respect, faith, and shared values.

Coming from a poor family shaped my values deeply. I understand the importance of hard work, resourcefulness, and community support. These experiences have made me empathetic and driven to help others, especially those facing economic hardship.

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My religious faith is a cornerstone of my life. It guides my decisions, gives me strength, and connects me to a larger purpose. At the same time, I’ve learned to respect others’ beliefs, understanding that spirituality is deeply personal and diverse.

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I see myself as a warm and creative individual who thrives on connecting with others. I have a deep love for nature and animals, and I enjoy cooking and sharing meals with others; it’s one of the ways I express care and build community. Many of my friends say I’m a good listener and that I have a convincing way of expressing myself, which helps me connect meaningfully with people. I’m also passionate about promoting accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities, especially in my work supporting families and communities. As a social worker, I am genuinely excited about what the future holds. I look forward to continuing my journey of growth, advocacy, and service, empowering individuals and families while embracing new opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

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I’m a devoted pet lover, and my rabbit has been a cherished member of our family for nearly five years. Caring for animals brings me joy and deepens my connection to nature and compassion.

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As a Latina woman, I’ve experienced moments where my voice was overlooked or underestimated, particularly in professional settings. These experiences opened my eyes to the subtle ways that racial and gender privilege operate in society. For a long time, I was someone who preferred to avoid situations that might lead to conflict or discomfort, I thought staying quiet would prevent inconvenience. But over time, I learned that avoidance doesn’t solve the problem. I began to understand that there are better, more constructive ways to address these issues. I’ve learned to advocate for myself with confidence and respect, and now I use my voice not only for myself but also to support others who may feel unheard.