With school wrapping up this month, and summer vacation drawing near, there is a tremendous opportunity to stimulate learning, while summer fun is being had! An uncomplicated pathway to this is cultural education, as there is literally a world of opportunities that can be examined and investigated by your little ones. Cultural education can be as simple as introducing new cuisines, or new music.
Annually June brings with it Caribbean-American Heritage Month, a perfect catalyst for cultural learning and exploration. This celebration is meant to recognize the histories and accomplishments of those of Caribbean descent.
For instance, political changemakers such as Supreme Court Justice Sonya Sotomayor (Puerto Rico), and Vice President Kamala Harris (Jamaican) both share Caribbean heritage. Athletes such as baseball icon Roberto Clemente (Puerto Rico), and Gold Medalist Sonya Richards Ross (Jamacia) do as well. Countless entertainers, also share Caribbean roots, Rhianna (Barbados), and Zoe Saldana (Dominican Republic) just to name a few. Western New York is a perfect place to explore Caribbean American culture and history. There is a large population of immigrants with origins from the Caribbean, who have made tremendous impacts to our community. These immigrants have brought lasting positive change to our region and this June is the perfect time to acknowledge their contributions and learn about Caribbean culture.
