Did you know that the Hispanic population of the United States reached 63.7 as of July 2022, making it the nation’s largest racial or ethnic minority–19.1% of the total population? (U.S. Census Bureau)

This year, the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month has never been more vital. Amid increasing discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion, this annual month-long celebration, observed from September 15 to October 15, offers a dedicated period to celebrate and acknowledge the diverse backgrounds and achievements of the Hispanic and Latinx population in the U.S. Let’s take the time to honor and reflect on the Hispanic and Latinx contributions that have shaped our nation.  At Crisis Text line, will be celebrating mental health changemakers who continue to make an impact on American society in profound ways–helping reduce mental health stigma within their communities.

Maria Alfaro founded Que Paso Latinx™ in the spring of 2020 to address the need for mental health awareness and education among Latinx youth and their families. Que Paso Latinx is dedicated to providing today’s youth with the kinds of culturally relevant mental health awareness programs that were unavailable to Maria when she was growing up. 

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” – Maria Alfaro

Thank you Maria for educating and empowering individuals through healing conversations within the Latinx community.

is a singer, songwriter, actress, and activist who you may know from her on-screen roles, talk shows, and musical hits. She continues to be on top of her game while being open about prioritizing her physical and mental health and continuing to foster conversations to support her community’s well-being.  

“There are a lot of topics these days that I feel like we are now more comfortable talking about. For me, two of those things have been anxiety and depression.”– Becky G.

Becky– you are truly a changemaker by helping to normalize conversations around mental health.

Benjamín Perez

is an advisor and advocate who has dedicated his career and time to empowering students and the Latino/a/x/e Community to find their purpose and support their mental health. He is a changemaker every day for supporting the Latinx community through his podcast, relatable content, and insights into showing up with authenticity and vulnerability. 

“I have fallen.  I have gotten back on. I have cried. I have healed. I have lost. I have won. Asi es la vida.” – Benjamín Perez

Thank you Benjamín for empowering and advocating for your culture as well as giving back to the world that changed your life– higher education.

Scarlett Rocha is one of our amazing volunteer Crisis Counselors and was selected as a  mental health changemaker for Hispanic Heritage Month. She is a Latina and lesbian who is proud of her roots as an American-Bolivian. She continually works to embody her belief that  great change first starts from within. No matter how big or small the change, all that matters is the process–self-reflection, having compassion, and taking active steps. This is something she constantly practices as a volunteer at Crisis Text Line. 

“I reflect after each conversation and ask myself, where could I have been a better listener?” – Scarlett Rocha

Thank you Scarlett for your empathetic approach to helping individuals in need and supporting them through their toughest moments.

Looking to make a difference? Interested in supporting people in need? Join Scarlett and the rest of Crisis Text Line’s community of volunteer Crisis Counselors today!