‘Chingonas and Champagne’ Celebrates Latina Leaders Shaping the Future

Building Back Together hosted its inaugural “Chingonas and Champagne” Brunch in Washington, D.C., a vibrant event dedicated to celebrating Latinas’ significant contributions to shaping policy, politics, philanthropy, media, and the labor movement.

Led by Executive Director Mayra Macías, Deputy Executive Director Javier Gamboa, and Operation Directions Susana Parra, the event recognized five distinguished leaders in their respective fields.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Natalie Montelongo, Yvonne Gutierrez, Emmy Ruiz, Angela Ramirez, Xenia Ruiz, Johanny Adames, Lori Montenegro, Rocío Sáenz, Artie Blanco, Mayra Macías PHOTO CREDIT: Hugo Castro

Honoring exceptional “chingonas”

This year’s five honorees were distinguished leaders. Dr. Carmen Rojas, President and CEO of the Marguerite Casey Foundation, furthers philanthropy as one of the few Latinas at the forefront of a major foundation. Emmy Ruiz was also honored for her historic tenure as the first Latina to serve as Senior Advisor to the President and Director of Political Strategy and Outreach, marking unprecedented Latina representation in the White House.

The brunch further shone a light on Lori Montenegro, the pioneering Bureau Chief at Telemundo, whose decades-long career has been instrumental in delivering crucial news to Spanish-speaking audiences. Her distinction as the first Afro-Latina to hold her current title underscores her significant impact on the media landscape. Rocío Sáenz, the Secretary-Treasurer of SEIU, was celebrated for her extensive advocacy for immigrant, worker, and racial justice, positioning her as a leading Latina voice within the labor movement.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Honorees: Lori Montenegro, Rocío Sáenz, Xenia Ruiz, Emmy Ruiz PHOTO CREDIT: Hugo Castro

Finally, Xenia Ruiz was recognized for her significant role as the Deputy Chief of Staff to Whip Katherine Clark, holding the distinction of being the highest-ranking Latina staffer in the U.S. House of Representatives. These accomplished women represent a spectrum of influence and leadership, embodying the spirit and impact celebrated at the “Chingonas and Champagne” Brunch.

Uplifting voices and inspiring action

The program began with welcoming remarks from Anais Carmona of Microsoft, followed by a powerful adress from Mayra Macías.

Macías emphasized the importance of creating supportive spaces for the Latino community, particularly in the current climate. She highlighted the inherent strength and resilience within the community.

“Whether they left Cuba, Mexico, the border or the west coast, these women carry home in their pockets and they spring it on you when you’re least expecting it with Spanish dichos shared in the White House, halls of Congress or in the newsroom; with correct pronunciation of your name the way your parents intended it; or encouraging you to take up space—their unapologetic way of existing is a gentle reminder that YOU belong, that WE belong,” she said. “And this sense of belonging, this affirmation of our humanity is so necessary right now.”

Macías concluded by urging attendees to draw inspiration from the honorees’ stories and actions, reinforcing the power of celebrating one another and the crucial need for belonging and affirmation. The “Chingonas and Champagne” Brunch served as a meaningful occasion to uplift these remarkable women and foster a sense of collective empowerment.

More Babies are Now Born to Women Over 40 Than Teens — A Historic First

Mothers in their forties are making history in the United States as they outrank teen births for the first time.

According to a new CDC report, births to women over 40 have risen 193% since the 1990s, while teen births have declined by 73%. While many factors affect births and natality, the report focuses on showcasing why women are choosing motherhood later in life, and how society affects their decisions.

Women are choosing motherhood later in life

Over the last decades, the age of first pregnancies in the U.S. has risen. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 19 percent of all births, and 11 percent of first pregnancies, were in women 35 years or older.

There are many factors at play as to why women are choosing pregnancy later in life. Among them is a focus in their career, economic barriers, lack of maternity benefits, and higher levels of sexual education. The CDC report states in 2023, 4.1% of all births were in women 40 years or older. Teen births that year were at 4.0%.

Additionally, births are on the decline in general. Total births dropped by 14% between 1990 and 2023, approximately 3.6 million per year. The report shows the decline is in part to less young people having children. Statistics also show that births in women aged 20-24 also dropped by 44%.

Societal factors greatly affect why women are choosing to be mothers later in life

A major societal factor influencing women to birth later in life is the pursuit of education and career advancement. While many of our families relied on the community, such as grandparents, to help with childcare, modern times are different. Many women are choosing to stabilize themselves financially to support their families.

Economic pressures and lack of systems that support motherhood play a huge role in postponing motherhood. The rising cost of housing, childcare, and healthcare access make it difficult for people to feel financially prepared for children. Additionally, job insecurity and lack of comprehensive family leave discourage childbearing for younger women.

Advances in fertility treatments and reproductive healthcare are helping women conceive well into their forties, reducing biological pressures. In many ways, age is becoming less of a factor and more of an advantage for motherhood.

Maye Returns with a Powerful Anthem to Female Autonomy “Yo me Consiento”

Venezuelan artist maye is officially back on the music scene. Her new single “Yo Me Consiento,” is her first release since 2023, marking a new chapter for the songstress.

The song is a powerful anthem for female autonomy, with a bold and unapologetic ode to self-pleasure, a taboo topic that is rarely celebrated. maye masterfully blends her signature Latin roots with a modern indie flair, creating a sound that is both familiar and exhilaratingly new. This track is the first taste of her highly anticipated debut album “Música Para Abrir el Cielo,” set to release this year.

Photo by Bryan Berrios

“Yo me Consiento” is maye’s ode to pleasure and breaking taboos

The magic of “Yo Me Consiento” sparked in maye’s home studio, aptly named The Sunroom. She shares with Modern Muze, “One day, Mick Coogan came to my house. He played me the instrumental that he made with Scotty, and we wrote the song in about an hour.”

The creative force behind this empowering track includes maye herself, alongside Scotty Dittrich and Mick Coogan, who poured their talents into writing, composing, and producing this bold statement. Together, they wrote a song that pushes past the taboo subject of female masturbation, which is rarely discussed among Latinas.

“This is a really important song to me because although a lot of people might think it’s inappropriate,” she says. “I feel like it is a topic of empowerment for women of all ages.”

In a world that often silences or stigmatizes female sexuality, maye’s directness is a breath of fresh air. This isn’t just a song about physical pleasure; it’s about reclaiming ownership of our bodies and desires, a powerful act of self-love and empowerment.

A magical collaboration

The music video for “Yo Me Consiento” was born from a burst of spontaneity. maye recounts, “The day we shot the video was very spontaneous. My brother Fernando Manuel and my good friend Bryan Berrios oversaw all the creative direction.”

Showcasing the power of community and collaboration, maye proudly adds, “I’m proud to say I did my hair and makeup with the help of my friends Ale Añez, Tina Del Pino, and Juliet Fernandez.”

A small, dedicated crew rallied behind their vision, transforming an unexpected location into a captivating visual experience. “We shot this video inside a gym and somehow made it work amongst the craziness. I’m super happy with how it came out.” While Bryan Berrios officially directed the video, the creative direction was a collaborative effort spearheaded by her brother.

“Yo Me Consiento” is more than just a new single. It’s an invitation to embrace our sensuality. To celebrate our bodies, and to recognize the power that comes from within. It’s a testament to maye’s artistry and her commitment to creating music that not only moves us but also empowers us.

So, muzas, turn up the volume, feel the rhythm, and let “Yo Me Consiento” be your anthem. This is our time to own our narratives, celebrate our desires, and step into our power.

Family Demands Justice After Middle Schooler Takes Her Own Life Following Bullying and ICE Deportation Threats

A Texas 11-year-old died from suicide earlier this month after being bullied at school. Classmates harassed Jocelynn Rojo Carranza at Gainesville Intermediate School. They allegedly threatened to call Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on her family. According to KGNS, the child’s mother, Marbella Carranza, claims students taunted Jocelyn repeatedly about her family’s immigration status while saying her family was in the United States illegally.

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Now, Carranza is seeking justice for the school’s failure to stop the bullying allegedly leading to her daughter’s death.

Classmates bullied the young girl for weeks before she took her own life

According to her mother, sixth grader Jocelynn Rojo Carranza never showed signs of bullying at home.

“My daughter never showed changes,” Carranza told CNN in Spanish on February 20. ” I mean, there was never anything that gave me a sign that she was suffering from bullying.”

However, she says school officials knew the bullying was happening and didn’t do anything about it. She claims investigators said her daughter was receiving counseling at school.

“It appears the school was aware of it all, but they never told me it was happening with my daughter,” she told KUVN. “It appears she would go once or twice a week to counseling to report what was happening.”

According to CNN, rumors and speculations about ICE were rampant at the school for days. In an interview, Jessi Noble, another student’s mother, claimed her daughter consistently came home from school crying and expressing fear for her Latino friends.

“People had been telling her friends that were Hispanic that they were getting deported, that ICE was coming for them,” Noble told CNN. “And she was just terrified.”

After her suicide attempt, Jocelynn was hospitalized for a week before her death on February 8.

“I waited a whole week for a miracle that my daughter would be well, but unfortunately, nothing could be done,” Marbella said in an interview with Univision. “My daughter will always live for me, and I will always love her.”

The child’s death comes after ICE raids have been terrorizing immigrants in the United States

Jocelynn’s untimely death comes after President Donald Trump’s use of ICE to terrorize immigrant communities. For weeks, ICE has been used against immigrants, disregarding status or criminality. Additionally, hate speech toward Latino immigrants, including claims they’re “eating” dogs and cats, are taking jobs, and are violent immigrants has raised bigotry against Latinos.

Currently, under federal law, being undocumented is a civil offense, not a crime. Several legal avenues are informing immigrants of their rights to ensure they are well informed in case of being involved in an ICE raid.

Jocelynn’s death has sparked concern regarding bullying policies at the Gainesville Independent School District. In a general statement, the district stated they take these allegations “very seriously.”

“We want to emphasize that we take all reports of bullying and student safety concerns very seriously,” the statement said. “Our district follows strict protocols for investigating any allegations, and we are committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for every student.”


Helping LA Families Cope with Grief After the Palisades and Eaton Wildfires: A Guide to Support and Healing

After weeks of the Palisades and Eaton fires ravishing hundreds of homes in Los Angeles, the city and its citizens are grieving. Many families’ entire livelihoods are gone, with the city facing unimaginable loss and a long recovery road ahead.

As they grapple with devastating losses, including loved ones, homes, jobs, and a sense of security, grief is a natural step in the process of healing. Community and support are crucial in offering solace and strength in such moments. While financial support is incredibly impactful, there are many meaningful ways to help grieving families rebuild emotionally.

Here are some ways to support grieving families through these difficult times.

1. Be present and listen

Grief often leaves people feeling isolated. In these challenging times, staying away from saying things like “you need to do this” or “you should do that” is not helpful or productive. In many instances, offering your time and attention can be the most valuable thing to offer. Sit with families, listen to their stories, and allow them to express their emotions without judgment. Simple phrases like “I’m here for you” or “It’s okay to feel this way” can provide immense comfort.

2. Organize emotional support and grief circles

Encourage the creation of small support groups where families can share experiences and hear from others who understand their experiences. These gatherings can foster connections and remind families they are not alone. Dr. Carole Lieberman told TIME, “Be compassionate and empathetic, and ask about the person’s story, because everybody has a story—or lots of stories.”

3. Offer practical help

Rather than offering advice, there’s much to do in the aftermath of the fires. With an overwhelming, endless to-do list, you can assist with errands, babysitting, pet sitting or fostering for a few days, and helping clean up debris. Sometimes, the best way to help is to be there for people.

4. Provide pressure-free check in’s

You don’t have to say a lot during these challenging times for people to feel supported. Reaching out with small gestures and check-ins can greatly encourage and help. Instead of overwhelming your friends or family with long messages they may feel pressured to respond to, send messages such as “I’m hoping you’re doing well, is there any way I can help?” or say “I’m just checking in, but don’t feel pressured to respond if you need anything, I’m here for you whenever you need.”

5. Connect them with long-term healing options like therapy

Encourage families to join support groups or therapy services when they’re ready. Several free outlets are available, including Call Your Fam, with over 650 therapists offering free help for victims. You can start the process by texting (858) 722-1920 or DM @callyourfam. The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Resources also has this complete list of resources for those impacted by the wildfires.

Talking to Your Children About the Los Angeles Wildfires: A Guide for Parents Amid Tragedy

As the Los Angeles Palisades and Eaton fires continue ravaging the city, many families have lost their homes. The situation is exceptionally challenging for adults but also for children who may not know how to process what is happening.

If you’re having trouble speaking to your kids during these challenging moments, Allison LaTona at BABYGROUP has shared tips on discussing what is happening and the road forward.

“Young children won’t understand the full impact of what is happening or what the immediate future will mean,” LaTona shares. “They live in the moment and need to be re-directed to activities where they can take a break from the reality around them as well as lots of reassurance and connection with you.”

Refrain from talking about fires or having the news on around young children

LaTona’s first tip is to keep children away from the news and the television.

“I know this is going to be one of the hardest things you will do as you are also dealing with your own feelings of loss, and continuing to cope with the fear you felt when trying to get to your kids from work/pick them up from school, or possibly being trapped on the road trying to escape the flames,” she explains. “I know that sense of panic you are feeling right now.  Do your best to set it aside and create the coziest space you can for you, and your children.”

Additionally, LaTona recommends telling children what is happening in a story format, as if it were a book or coming from a teacher. Here’s a prompt she recommends using:

“Sometimes we get a rain storm, or a snow storm, and this time, there is a firestorm. There are helpers called firefighters who help people stay safe by taking them to a safe space where there is no fire…like where we are now…there is no fire here and we are in a safe space together.”  

You can also add, “The firefighters help mommies and daddies get to their children so they can all be together again. The firefighters spray lots and lots of water on the fire to make it go away. This can take a very long time but the firefighters are strong and brave, and they know how to do this to keep everyone safe.”

Include emotional tones such as “It is very sad….(pause)….but sometimes the fire does burn the grass……and the trees…..and the houses…..and we can’t go back to that house again.” If you or your children begin crying, it is okay to let them comfort you and to comfort them.

Provide reassurance

Although children may not know exactly what is going on, it’s normal for them to feel scared. One way to comfort them is by providing reassurance. LaTona recommends being honest, keeping sentences short, holding them, being repetitive, and using the word “safe” often.

You can use this prompt as an example when providing reassurance:

“Sometimes mommy/daddy burns the toast and it leaves a bad smell in the air…that is what is happening outside. Some things got burned and so it is making lots of smoke, and dust in the air, and it smells bad. We need to stay inside today to protect our bodies and keep our bodies safe from the smokey air and dust. We are safe. And also, “We will be able to go outside again soon.”  

Acknowledge people helping in the community

Help your children feel safe by letting them know there’s help around them. One way to do this is by acknowledging helpers. From helicopters to sirens, make sure you explain to them what is going on. For example, “Those are helicopters dumping water on the things that are burning,” or “Those are the firefighters driving to the burning places so they can spray water.”

Engage children in activities to keep them distracted

If you ever built a fort as a child, this is the time to do so again! LaTona shares that these kinds of containment helps children feel safe.

This is also a good time to engage them in arts and crafts, without making it overly complicated. Painting, coloring, gluing, cutting, and other activities that keep children an outlet to release anxiety and worrying. You can also have them paint so they can process feeling scared without judgement. Another great activity is to watch movies or clips of the family having a good time, so they can remember happy memories.

For families with children of diverse ages, have older children help you in making the little ones feel safe. This can help them feel included and empowered.