Members of the Heritage of Latinx Alliance (HOLA) Employee Resource Group represented Mount Sinai Health System at the 69th Annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade on Sunday, June 14, joining thousands of participants in one of the nation’s largest celebrations of Puerto Rican culture, heritage, and community.
Held along Fifth Avenue in New York City, this year’s parade embraced the theme, “Somos Más Que 100×35”, celebrating the richness, resilience, and contributions of Puerto Ricans both on the island and throughout the diaspora. (The theme, translated in English as “We Are More Than 100×35,” is a popular statement of pride, referring to the size of Puerto Rico, which is about 100 by 35 miles.)
Employees marched alongside community organizations, cultural groups, and supporters from across the region in a display of pride, unity, and cultural celebration. Throughout the day, participants connected with fellow marchers and spectators while celebrating the traditions, history, and spirit that make the Puerto Rican community so vibrant.
For many participants, the parade also served as an opportunity to celebrate their own personal connections to Puerto Rican culture while strengthening relationships with colleagues across the Health System. 
“I want to thank Mount Sinai for giving us the opportunity to take part in the Puerto Rican Day Parade. As someone born and raised in New York to parents who were born and raised in Puerto Rico, this experience allows me to honor my family’s heritage, celebrate my culture, and stay connected to my roots. It also reflects the pride, diversity, and inclusion of our employees, our patients, and the community we serve,” says Sylvia Anavitate, Senior Billing Coordinator, Accounts Receivable, at The Mount Sinai Hospital.
For Janessa Aponte of the Corporate Strategic Sourcing Department, the parade was a memorable first experience.
“Walking together, celebrating our Puerto Rican pride, sharing laughs, dancing, and enjoying all the festivities was truly incredible,” she says. “The energy, excitement, and sense of unity throughout the day made it such a special event. I am so grateful for the opportunity to join such a wonderful group and be part of this celebration.”
Participation in events such as the Puerto Rican Day Parade reflects Mount Sinai’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where employees can celebrate their diverse identities, share their cultures, and build meaningful connections with one another and the communities Mount Sinai serves.
The Office for Health Data, Outcomes, and Engagement Strategy team and the HOLA ERG leads and members thank all who participated and helped represent Mount Sinai during this year’s celebration. 