LATINAS; THE GROWING POWER OF THIS COUNTRY- DEBRA A. CANALES

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT/CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER AT PROVIDENCE ST. JOSEPH HEALTH BOARD DIRECTOR FOR AMICA MUTUAL INSURANCE

SEVERAL YEARS AGO, I remember reading a Nielsen report focused on the power of Latina women. It described how we are a force to be reckoned with, a growing power in this country – both culturally and economically. I felt a surge of pride. My inner voice said, “Yep, that’s me.” I’d held corporate officer positions in Fortune 500 companies and was beginning a new executive role with Providence. Though at the same time, I was aware that those of us who had worked our way into positions of influence were still few and far between. The report about the “Latina Power Shift” masked the daily economic insecurity burdening many Latina and other women of color.    

I grew up and attended high school in Texas. One day I overheard a teacher writing off my future. “It’s too bad she’ll never amount to anything.” Early in my career I remember being frustrated when I didn’t feel “seen” professionally for who I am, a woman of color capable of doing anything I set my mind to. This wasn’t exclusive to my professional context; it happened within my own extended family and culture – from both men and women. Some men behaved in a paternalistic manner toward me, and several women told me to mind my place.

These experiences told me that I should occupy small and quiet spaces – for people considered “less than.” People who know me would tell you that I’m anything but quiet. My life speaks of drive. I’ve found that I can do anything. My color and identity are assets, gifts granted me by God. They are vital components of my she-power, my personal brand or secret sauce that makes me a one-ofa-kind creation… a masterpiece in God’s own image. I’ve always been inclined toward letting my light shine brightly and not fretting about others feeling uncomfortable, threatened, or insecure. Our strength grows when we remain grounded, steadfast in who we are and assert ourselves as proud women of color. Along the way, I pray for the grace to do my best, remain humble and grateful, and to lift others up with my words and behavior.

“OUR STRENGTH GROWS WHEN WE REMAIN GROUNDED, STEADFAST IN WHO WE ARE AND ASSERT OURSELVES AS PROUD WOMEN OF COLOR.”