Latino Community Project “Nuestra Huella” Needs Your Support
by alaska humanities forum
Latinos own nearly 3,000 companies in Alaska and employ thousands of workers, contributing millions of dollars to the local economy. However, their stories of work and endurance remain largely hidden.
“Labor of Love: Untold Stories of Alaska’s Trailblazing Latinos” was awarded a Forum Stories Grant last winter; one of eight projects selected from 40 proposals. But before the team could start work, the grant was rescinded when the National Endowment for the Humanities abruptly cancelled its funding for state councils.
Writer Gabriela Olmos is working with Enlaces, the organization behind the project, to interview Latino essential workers in Juneau, Kenai, and Kodiak and conduct archival research. She is compiling the experiences of more than 100 Latinos in Alaska into a book that can deepen our understanding of how labor shapes their identities and lives, and how it has given a sense of purpose to a whole community of resilient, determined individuals.
“When I interview people, one thing I ask is, what makes you proud about being a Latino? They always say, ‘We take pride in the hard work we do,’” says Gabriela. “I talk to a lot of people who want to prove themselves, and that is seen in the economic impact of Hispanic communities in Alaska. That’s the story we want to tell.” Labor of Love is still seeking funding. Interested partners should reach out to Lina Mariscal in Anchorage at [email protected]. Alternatively, they can donate directly to Enlaces using the QR Code.
