Hello! My name is Brian Chavez. I’m a park ranger here in Sequoia National Park. I was raised in a small Mexican-American community near the Port of Los Angeles called Wilmington. In this barrio, I learned the cultural traditions of my Mexican ancestors and cultivated a love for history along the way. As a historian, I recognize the influence our past has on our present. No doubt my dedication to a greater ideal comes from the fervent hope and strong work ethic my ancestors inspired in me. My family first came to the United States a century ago in 1922 from Michoacan, Mexico, eventually settling in Southern California and working in many jobs over the next several decades. In some instances, it is hard to imagine how my ancestors took pride in their work. For example, my great grandfather Aniceto Duarte was a bracero, working in agriculture and railroads. He faced racial discrimination, was sprayed with toxic pesticides, and worked long hours for little pay in extreme conditions. His pride in being a bracero left his family confused. Only later would we realize his pride came not so much from the work itself, but rather the reason he was doing it. He would tell his children, “I did it for you, with the hope that you could live a better life than I.” The generations after him built upon the foundation he built of hard work for a greater ideal. I am so proud of them. Like them, I too am inspired to dedicate my life to something greater than myself— preserving “unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.” What an honor it is for me to be here not only as a steward of our giant sequoias, but to help build stewardship in others, especially among Latinos like me. Already within my first season, I have recognized the positive impact my voice and skin color have in making people like me feel welcomed and included within our national parks. I am proud to represent my Mexican heritage, Spanish language, and Indigenous perspective in the work I do. Happy #HispanicHeritageMonth from my family to yours!