National Hispanic Heritage Month Highlight: Richard Lopez

National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed September 15^th – October 15^th. It is a time to celebrate the histories, culture and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The Round Rock Chamber celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing members who are making significant contributions to the Chamber and community. This week, we spotlight Richard Lopez with UKG.

About Richard Lopez:

Richard “Doc” Lopez is chair of the Chamber’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee. He is a DEI practitioner, social justice advocate, and supplier diversity manager who has lived in Round Rock for 20 years with his wife and two children. He works for UKG and is a founding member of the advisory board for Prospanica’s Center for Social Justice. Prospanica is a professional organization dedicated to empowering and enabling Hispanic professionals to achieve their full educational, economic, and social potential. In his free time, Richard enjoys playing Latin music and is a founding member of Congas on Main Street, a local ensemble of Latin street percussionists who frequently perform in downtown Round Rock.

Could you share a bit about your experience growing up Hispanic? 

I am an eleventh generation native of San Antonio, Texas on my mom’s side and third generation on my dad’s side. San Antonio’s population is over 60% Hispanic. Growing up there, I was surrounded by my culture, food, and music, and I never had to look far to find others who shared my cultural identity. Although I don’t live there anymore, I still feel most at home when I visit.  

What are ways that you honor your culture in your daily life? 

I am a musician and love playing music from all Latin genres. Playing music is a daily activity for me. Whether I am slapping congas, strumming a guitar or singing salsa music, I honor a musical and cultural tradition that was handed down to me by my father and his mother before him.

What are some of the challenges you have faced and overcome? 

Like many Hispanics in Texas, I grew up speaking English and had a limited vocabulary in Spanish. My inability to speak fluently in Spanish limited my ability to fully connect with others in my community. I overcame this challenge by living in Mexico on two different occasions as a young adult. Learning Spanish opened new opportunities for building professional and personal connections.

Why do you think it is so important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month? 

It’s important to understand how Hispanics collectively contribute to the success of this country. It’s equally important to understand that Hispanics are not a monolith. Our Hispanic community is comprised of many nationalities, cultures, histories and dialects. Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the unique and shared identities that unite us. Our diversity is our strength.

What would you like to share about your own cultural identity?  

My cultural identity could be broadly described as Hispanic, Chicano, and Mexican-American. However, I most identify with being Tejano (Native Texan). Tejanos have our own rich culture, history, music, and cuisine. My authentic identify is tied to the land and anchored by its history.

How can others celebrate? 

Hispanics always have great music playing at their celebrations. I encourage everyone to celebrate by learning how to identify some of our most popular musical genres. Do you know the difference between salsa, merengue, cumbia, mariachi and rumba? If not, start there and impress your friends at the next dance party with your new musical appreciation.

What country are you, or your relatives, from? What brought them to the United States? 

My family settled in Texas when it was Spain, lived here when it was Mexico, and were citizens through Texas’ transition from republic to statehood. Our American origin story is like many other Hispanics and underscores the saying: “We didn’t cross the border. The border crossed us.”

What are some traditions, celebration, or rituals your family participates in? 

One of our family traditions that has withstood the passing of time is the “tamalada” or tamale making party. The tamalada brings together all generations and there is a lot of love and labor that goes into making this delicacy. The tamalada often evolves into a full-blown party when all the work is done and the tamales are ready to eat.

What do you wish others knew about your culture? 

I would like for people to understand that Tex-Mex is not just a food. Tex-Mex is an English abbreviation of Tejano, a term that encapsulates everything beautiful about the largest ethnic group in Texas. I am Tejano Proud and I am grateful for the opportunity to share this aspect of my identity with you.