Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration across the United States that highlights different Hispanic cultures and their history. The month-long celebration runs from September 15, 2026, to October 15.
The Caribbean consists of over seven thousand islands, 28 countries, 13 of which are independent states and 17 dependent territories; however, the title of largest island in the Caribbean belongs to Cuba.
The Spanish-speaking island covers over 40,000 square miles and is known for its rich and diverse culture.
Family, Culture and Connection
Michelle Padilla, a Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) senior sports broadcasting major, was born and raised in the United States to Cuban parents, but that doesn’t take away her pride and connection to her heritage.
“Being born in the United States didn’t mean I was removed from Cuban culture,” said Padilla. “What I celebrate most is that deep sense of family, connection, and culture no matter the distance. I grew up eating our amazing food, dancing salsa, and incorporating our family values into my everyday life.”
Padilla says her Cuban family, like many families in her community, functions as her support system and has built a foundation for daily life.
“Family is everything in Cuban culture, and mine is truly everything to me,” said Padilla. “Growing up, I remember some people would find it unusual that my parents would drop everything whenever my brother and I needed them. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized even more just how special that is. That closeness has allowed my relationship with my parents to grow beyond just being a family. They’ve genuinely become my best friends and people I know I can always turn to. That unwavering love and support is something that has marked me for life.”
Recipes Rooted in Tradition
Cuba has an old-fashioned aesthetic. The city streets are filled with bright vintage cars from the 1950’s, historic architecture and landscapes, and rumba music. However, it is the food that stands out to Padilla.
“Cuban food is one of my favorite things in the entire world. In Cuban households, the moment a child is born, their families are feeding them croquetas and dipping their binky in Cuban coffee,” said Padilla.
Cuban coffee or a Cuban sandwich may be the most well-known to Americans, but the range of Cuban cuisine goes far beyond that. The timeless recipes, passed down through generations such as Ropa Vieja, Arroz Congrí, and Lechón Asado, are staple Cuban dishes that are enjoyed at family gatherings and holidays.
“Our food isn’t just to be eaten, but to be instilled into our blood. Growing up, I would eat just about every Cuban meal and dessert that exists, homemade by my mom and grandma, which made everything taste even better,” said Padilla. “If I could share just one Cuban meal with the world, it would be our Lechón Asado accompanied by arroz morro, yuca, and for dessert, Arroz con Leche. I promise you, it’s the best thing ever!”
From Sacrifice to Strength
The Cuban people have endured a lot over the years; Cuba was the last major Spanish colony to gain independence. Its people still experience hardship today under the communist regime, one of only five remaining communist countries in the world, that controls all aspects of life and places limitations on the Cuban people.
It is through that adversity Padilla finds a sense of fortitude.
“One thing from my heritage that I have found contributes to my character is resilience. My family has lived in Cuba for about seven generations, before my parents and maternal grandmother immigrated to the United States,” said Padilla. “Growing up as a first-generation American, I was able to understand and appreciate the sacrifices that they made to give me . At the same time, some of my family still lives in Cuba, so that connection has made the impact of my parents’ sacrifice that much greater. My heritage has taught me to persevere, value opportunities, and never hesitate to go for my dreams.”
To learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month, click here.
