SpendLikeItMatters at businesses owned by people from Latinx, Hispanic, Latino/a-identifying communities as part of your Latinx Heritage Month celebration!
To create our Latinx Heritage Month art, we worked with Seattle artist, Nathaly Lerma of Flor De Cactus Studio. She has shared the following explanation of the inspiration for her design.
This piece, “El Paso de la Sabiduría” or The Passing of Wisdom, is a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage and the enduring power of intergenerational knowledge. At its heart are two Perritos de Colima, or “Colima Dogs,” rendered in a style that blends contemporary color with pre-Hispanic ceramic traditions.
The central figures depict the now-extinct Tlalchichi, cousins to the iconic Xoloitzcuintle. These dogs held deep spiritual significance in ancient Mesoamerican cultures. Here, they embody the transfer of ancestral wisdom – an older, elaborately decorated dog leans in to share its knowledge with a younger, wide-eyed companion.
The dogs’ forms are brought to life through a bold, expressive color palette. Th e elder dog, adorned in deep blues and purples with intricate patterns, represents the richness of accumulated experience. The younger dog, portrayed in warm oranges and yellows, symbolizes the brightness and potential of youth. Their interaction illustrates the vital connection between past and present, a cornerstone of Latino family values.
Surrounding the central figures is a background inspired by Tenango embroidery, a traditional Mexican folk art style. This floral pattern, with its delicate leaves and multi-colored blooms, creates a tapestry of cultural memory. It serves as a vibrant reminder of the artistic traditions that have been passed down through generations.
By reimagining these pre-Hispanic figures in a contemporary style, this artwork seeks to bridge ancient wisdom with modern expression. It honors our ancestors while affirming the continued relevance of their teachings. “Whispers of Wisdom” is an homage to the strength found in community, the importance of family, and the unbroken chain of knowledge that connects us to our roots.
This piece invites viewers to reflect on their own cultural inheritance and the timeless value of passing wisdom from one generation to the next. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Latino culture and a celebration of the bonds that tie us to our history and to each other.
We’ve teamed up with Seattle Reign, Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Kraken, Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Storm, and Seattle Mariners to encourage fans and friends to explore and #SpendLikeItMatters in support of the Latinx-owned small businesses at the heart of our communities.
Receipt & Receive
Upload your receipts when you #SpendLikeItMatters at small Latinx-owned businesses, and enter to win prizes from some of your favorite Seattle sports teams. Seattle Kraken, Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Storm, Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Reign, Seattle Mariners, and Intentionalist want to encourage the community to buy from local Latinx-owned small businesses throughout Latinx Heritage Month and beyond.
Our goal is $30,000 in receipts uploaded from Latinx-owned businesses — help us reach our goal by uploading your receipts today!
Latinx Heritage Month Marketplace
Our Latinx Heritage Month Marketplace includes a variety of items from dozens of Latinx-owned small businesses. Explore gift certificates, self-care services, and more, and check back regularly, as new items are being added every day!
We’re also celebrating Latinx Heritage Month with BECU. Learn more about the Equity in Action small business tabs and how BECU members can enjoy free eats and treats from Latinx-owned small businesses.
Keep an eye on our blog and our Instagram and Facebook as we announce additional ways we’re celebrating Latinx Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15!
If intentional spending isn’t in the cards today, consider writing a recommendation on the Intentionalist listing page of a Latinx-owned business you love. Share some words of appreciation and be the reason a business owner’s day is a little bit brighter!