A couple of nights ago I had the chance to volunteer for @streetvendorproject. Bringing awareness to immigrant voices has always been important to me — and this is an organization I hope to continue working with in the future. With that said, after moving to NYC, I found a small Mexican store that’s been a safe space for me for the past two years — a place where I’ve regularly shared my experiences, and where anyone can come in, connect, and shop beautiful handmade pieces. Unfortunately, it’s now in danger of closing. The store, @lasirena_nyc , has been part of the East Village for over 20 years, celebrating Mexican folk art, handmade crafts, and cultural heritage through the work of local and Mexican artisans. Today, my husband and I had the opportunity to attend their Día de los Muertos: Celebrating Life event — featuring tamales, face painting, and flower crown making, along with performances by @mariachi_nyu and @nyumexfolklorico There were even Pan de Muertos from @guadalupana.bakery bakery and raffles for local shoppers. 💐 They hope to continue hosting more events like this in the future — which is why it’s so important to show up, support, and keep spaces like this alive. ❤️ Living in New York has reminded me how powerful immigrant communities are, and I want to continue spotlighting immigrants with small businesses across the city. ✨ #streetvendorproject #immigrantvoices #communitymatters #supportlocal #nycstories #latinxcommunity #streetvendors #everydaycreators #smallbusinessnyc #nyclife #mexicanfolkart #supportartisans #DiaDeLosMuertos #EastVillageNYCm