Search Results

Renew. Reconnect. Reclaim You. Date: July 9, 2025, 6 pm | Online via Zoom, link with registration This month’s Midwest Mujeres Cyber-Cafecito  invites you to a sacred space of healing and transformation. Join us for a Virtual Cacao Ceremony  led by the soulful and inspiring Berenice Soto , a first-generation Latina healer, healthcare professional, and Amazon best-selling author. Whether you’re navigating life transitions, seeking clarity, or simply craving deeper self-connection, this ceremony is for all women , with a special embrace for women over 50 . It's a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and gently restore your emotional and spiritual well-being. 💫 What Is a Virtual Cacao Ceremony? A cacao ceremony  is a heart-centered ritual using sacred, ceremonial-grade cacao to open the heart, unlock emotional blockages, and cultivate inner peace and purpose. From the comfort of your own home, you’ll be guided through: Meditation Intentional reflection Gentle spiritual practices Emotional healing and release You’ll leave feeling recharged, more aligned, and empowered to reclaim your personal path with renewed clarity. 🍫 Cacao Preparation To participate fully, we encourage attendees to order ceremonial cacao at least 2 weeks in advance (by June 25) from https://ceremonial-cacao.com/ Use code BERENICE85816 for 10% off  to support this offering and receive the cacao best suited for the ceremony. ½-pound (10 servings) and 1-pound (20 servings) options. Divide into smaller bags of 25 cacao discs.  The following versions of cacao are suggested for this event:  Tantric Rose Blossom Thriving Tanzania Vibrant Vitality **Also, the first 15 Women to sign up, will get their own free sample!! Pick up at our downtown offices! 🌿 Meet Your Guide: Berenice Galvez-Soto With over 15 years of experience in healthcare, Berenice Soto  is a powerful voice for wellness, equity, and spiritual healing. As the founder of BGS Evolution , she fuses holistic healing, energy work, and intuitive spiritual practices to help clients realign with their truth. She’s not only a certified essential oil and crystal healer but also a gifted medium , ceremonial facilitator , and author. Her chapter in the Amazon best-seller Lioness Prayers & Affirmations for Women Leaders Volume 2 , titled The Silent Condition , dives deep into the often unspoken self-sabotage women face—and how to rise beyond it. Berenice’s mission is clear: to create healing spaces where women can reconnect with their intuition, release fear, and reclaim their power. Her Website: https://www.bgsevolution.online/ 🧘‍♀️ Why Attend? Women over 50 are especially welcome! Be one of the 15 women to sign up and get your free cacao for the Zoom class. You’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed or disconnected You want to set intentions in a sacred space You're ready to heal and align your inner world You seek a meaningful community with other women This is your time —to slow down, to listen inward, and to honor your heart. 📅 Date: July 9, 6 pm Central Time Location:  Virtual (Zoom link will be provided upon registration) Stay tuned for the official date and RSVP details. In the meantime, order your ceremonial cacao and prepare for a transformative journey of self-discovery, love, and empowerment. Presented by Midwest Mujeres Collective, Empowering Latinas & all women to lead with authenticity, resilience, and heart. For more info, follow @MidwestMujeres and @BGSEvolution.

by Emiliano Vera, Midwest Mujeres Membership Coordinator As we commemorate the 56th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots this June 28, Pride Month is a time to honor the resilience, courage, and contributions of LGBTQ+ trailblazers—especially those from our Latine communities who have paved the way for future generations. Growing up as a queer Mexican-American with a revolutionary tocayo (namesake) in a small Midwestern town, I searched for role-models that represented the community I longed to grow closer to. I'm honored to be able to use the Midwest Mujeres platform to share some of these heroes that have inspired me and celebrate the legacies of Amelio Robles Ávila, Chavela Vargas, and Sylvia Rivera , three revolutionary figures who defied norms and lived authentically in the face of adversity. Pride Month Profiles Amelio Robles Ávila: A Revolutionary Trans Man Born in 1889 in the indigenous community of Xochipala, Guerrero, Mexico, Amelio Robles Ávila was a transgender man and a decorated soldier in the Mexican Revolution. Assigned female at birth, Amelio lived as a man from a young age, joining the revolutionary forces where he earned respect as a skilled fighter and leader. After the war, he legally changed his name and lived openly as a man, becoming one of the first documented transgender men in Latin America. He later married woman named Ángela Torres with whom he adopted a daughter, and lived until 1984, passing away at the age of 95. His bravery in battle and in his identity challenges historical narratives about machismo, gender and revolution. Chavela Vargas: The Defiant Voice of a Generation Chavela Vargas  (1919–2012) was a Costa Rican-born Mexican singer whose deep, raw voice and rebellious spirit made her a legend in ranchera music. Openly lesbian in a conservative industry, Chavela defied gender norms by wearing pants, smoking cigars, and singing songs traditionally reserved for men—about love, heartbreak, and desire for women. After years of struggle with alcoholism, she made a triumphant comeback in her 70s, becoming an icon for LGBTQ+ and Latine communities. Her amorous affairs with Frida Kahlo and her unapologetic authenticity continue to inspire art and chismes to this day. Her raspy, heartwrenching renditions of Paloma Negra and La Llorona are some of my favorite corridos, and in this time when we are more than ever divided by borders, I live by her snappy retort, "Los mexicanos nacemos donde nos da la rech*ngada gana!". Sylvia Rivera: A Stonewall Warrior Sylvia Rivera (1951–2002), a Venezuelan-Puerto Rican transgender activist, was a key figure in the Stonewall uprising and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. A fierce advocate for homeless queer youth and transgender people of color, Sylvia co-founded the Gay Liberation Front  and Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) with Marsha P. Johnson. Despite facing exclusion from mainstream gay rights movements, she never stopped fighting for the most marginalized. Her famous words, "I’m not missing a minute of this—it’s the revolution!"  still echo in today’s struggles for trans rights. Honoring Their Legacies These icons remind us that Pride is not just celebration—it’s resistance. At Midwest Mujeres , we stand on the shoulders of Amelio, Chavela, Sylvia, and countless others who dared to live truthfully. This Pride Month, let’s honor their contributions by continuing their fight for equality, acceptance, and justice. ¡Feliz Mes de Orgullo!  🌈 —Midwest Mujeres ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Spanish/En Español Mientras conmemoramos el 56º aniversario de la Revuelta de Stonewall este 28 de junio, el Mes del Orgullo es un momento para honrar la resiliencia, la valentía y las contribuciones de pioneres LGBTQ+, especialmente aquelles de nuestras comunidades latinx que allanaron el camino para las futuras generaciones. Al crecer como un mexicano-estadounidense queer con un tocayo revolucionario en un pequeño pueblo del Midwest, busqué modelos a seguir que representaran a la comunidad con la que anhelaba conectarme. Es un honor poder usar la plataforma de Midwest Mujeres  para compartir a algunes de estes héroes que me inspiraron y celebrar los legados de Amelio Robles Ávila, Chavela Vargas y Sylvia Rivera , tres figuras revolucionarias que desafiaron las normas y vivieron con autenticidad frente a la adversidad. Amelio Robles Ávila: Un Hombre Trans Revolucionario Nacido en 1889 en la comunidad indígena de Xochipala, Guerrero, México, Amelio Robles Ávila  fue un hombre trans y un soldado condecorado en la Revolución Mexicana. Asignado mujer al nacer, Amelio vivió como hombre desde joven, uniéndose a las fuerzas revolucionarias donde ganó respeto como líder y combatiente. Tras la guerra, cambió legalmente su nombre y vivió abiertamente como hombre, convirtiéndose en uno de los primeros hombres trans documentados en América Latina. Más tarde se casó con Ángela Torres, con quien adoptó una hija, y vivió hasta 1984, falleciendo a los 95 años. Su valentía en la batalla y en su identidad desafía los relatos históricos sobre el machismo, el género y la revolución. Chavela Vargas: La Voz Rebelde de una Generación Chavela Vargas  (1919–2012), cantante mexicana de origen costarricense, se convirtió en leyenda de la música ranchera con su voz áspera y espíritu indomable. Abiertamente lesbiana en una industria conservadora, Chavela rompió normas de género usando pantalones, fumando puros y cantando canciones tradicionalmente reservadas a hombres—sobre el amor, el desengaño y el deseo entre mujeres. Tras años de lucha contra el alcoholismo, regresó triunfal a los 70 años, convirtiéndose en un ícono LGBTQ+ y latinx. Sus amoríos con Frida Kahlo y su forma de vivir con autenticidad sin pedir disculpas a nadie siguen inspirando arte y chismes hasta hoy. Sus desgarradoras versiones de "Paloma Negra"  y "La Llorona"  son de mis favoritas, y en estos tiempos en que los fronteras nos dividen más que nunca, vivo bajo su frase célebre: "¡Los mexicanos nacemos donde nos da la rech*ngada gana!" . Sylvia Rivera: Una Guerrera de Stonewall Sylvia Rivera  (1951–2002), activista trans venezolana-puertorriqueña, fue clave en el Levantamiento de Stonewall y la lucha por los derechos LGBTQ+. Defensora incansable de la juventud queer sin hogar y las personas trans de color, cofundó el Gay Liberation Front  y Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR)  junta a Marsha P. Johnson. A pesar de la exclusión de los movimientos gays mainstream, nunca dejó de luchar por les más marginades. Sus palabras— "¡No me perderé ni un minuto de esto—es la revolución!" —resuenan hoy en las luchas trans. Honrando Sus Legados Estes ícones nos recuerdan que el Orgullo no es solo celebración, sino resistencia . En Midwest Mujeres , nos apoyamos en los hombros de Amelio, Chavela, Sylvia y muches otres que se atrevieron a vivir con verdad. Este Mes del Orgullo, honremos sus contribuciones continuando su lucha por igualdad, aceptación y justicia. ¡Feliz Mes del Orgullo!  🌈 — Midwest Mujeres

Midwest Mujeres is proud to launch the next round of our Voices and Dreams Academy —a bilingual, 12-week program designed especially for Black and Latina women entrepreneurs who are ready to turn their lived experiences into leadership, visibility, and business growth. This entrepreneurship development program is very unique and grounded in the cultural traditions of storytelling. We use mindfulness and meditation to tap into our best selves. All women are welcome cooks, retail dreamers, coaches, creatives, artists, activists, child care leaders, teachers, caregivers, mothers, retirees, immigrant mujeres, Lesbian, Trans, and Bi womyn, and women over 40 are strongly encouraged to apply! This isn't your average business class. This is a space for healing, power-building, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Funded by generous support from Dane Arts , the Madison Arts Commission , the Madison Community Foundation , and Old National Bank , this academy is designed to help mujeres break isolation, grow their confidence, and scale their businesses. Over the summer, we'll be hosting several recruitment workshops  to build our next cohort and welcome participants to our new downtown Madison space . These gatherings will introduce our unique storytelling-based model, one rooted in cultural healing, public speaking, marketing, and financial education. The academy culminates in our signature event: Yo Quiero Dinero , where our storytellers will take the stage to share their journeys in a bilingual, multimedia performance. This year’s showcase will honor Latina caretakers ! Our mothers, abuelas, healers, childcare providers, nurses, and educators with a tribute to their often unseen labor and legacy. 🌟 Why join? Because you deserve to be seen, heard, and supported.Because your story matters.Because your dream is not too late. 💻 Ready to register or learn more? Visit our registration page here:👉 midwestmujeres.com/academy-registration This is your moment, mujer. Let’s rise together—una historia a la vez.

Midwest Mujeres is thrilled to welcome Emiliano Vera  as our new Membership Manager ! 🎉 With deep roots in both community work and education, Emiliano brings a unique blend of experience, compassion, and cultural insight to our team. Emiliano Vera, Midwest Mujeres Member Manager Originally from Bushnell, Illinois  with family roots in Puebla, México , Emiliano is a proud educator and community organizer. They hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern University  and a Master’s degree in Gobernanza y Globalización from Universidad de las Américas Puebla . For over 12 years , Emiliano has worked in K–12 education, and for the past five years , they’ve served as a trusted Spanish-English interpreter , particularly in nonprofit and community settings. Their bilingual and bicultural skills make them incredible advocates for the communities we serve. Outside of work, Emiliano enjoys life with their husband Noa and their two beloved fur-daughters, Xaza  and Cezy . 🐾 We’re honored to have Emiliano on our team as we continue to build spaces where storytelling, empowerment, and networking thrive for Latina and Black women across the Midwest. 👉 Connect with Emiliano on LinkedIn  to learn more about their journey: linkedin.com/in/emilianovera Please join us in giving Emiliano a warm welcome! 💖

By Midwest Mujeres Next Thursday, May 22nd at 6:00 PM , we invite you to a very special event at our office at 306 E Wilson St, Suite #2E, Madison, WI : a powerful community conversation titled "More Health, Less Cancer: Collective Wisdom for Prevention." This talk will be led by our beloved contributor, Fernanda Alayo , a registered nurse (BSN RN) and oncology and chemotherapy infusion specialist at the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Michigan. This workshop will be in Spanish, mainly. We will have some networking time. Women over the age of 50 are very much welcome to join! Fernanda is a Madisonian at heart, and although her professional path has taken her out of state, her commitment to the health of our Latino community remains steadfast. She believes that cancer prevention begins with knowledge—not only that which comes from medical science, but also that which is passed down from generation to generation. Therefore, this event will combine ancestral wisdom, medical education, and storytelling as key tools to empower and care for one another. From our very first Mujeres workshop At Midwest Mujeres, we are honored to have Fernanda as our bilingual blogger and editor . Her work has been instrumental in amplifying the voices of our community and making critical health information accessible in both languages. Her unique approach—blending clinical data with real stories—allows more women to understand the importance of screening and be encouraged to take action for their health. This event is free and open to all ages! There will be time to share questions, stories, and advice with fellowship partners. Parking available at: Summit Credit Union – 307 E Wilson St.

Midwest Mujeres' First In-Person Event in Our New Space with LeFlore Accounting Big news: Midwest Mujeres has a new home!  We’re so excited to share that we’ve moved into a new space with LeFlore Accounting , and we’re kicking things off with our very first in-person event—a beautiful and grounding Curandera Writing Class . This isn’t just any event. It’s a welcoming circle where women are treated to sweet snacks, calming mindfulness practices, and the space to write their stories and begin healing. We believe storytelling is power, and healing is revolutionary. We couldn’t have done this without the incredible support from the Madison Community Foundation  and this month’s generous supporter, Ascendium . Because of them—and all of YOU—we now have a space to call our own. Special thanks to our neighbors at Urban Triage  for lending us tables and chairs (community love is real!), and our amazing interns  for helping lift this organization off the ground. You are the heartbeat behind what we do. Here’s to more gatherings, more healing, and more stories. This is just the beginning. #MidwestMujeres #CuranderaWriting #CommunityHealing #LatinaLeadership #StorytellingMatters

Hello, dear friends, This week, I’m sending you all a big virtual hug—one that you can feel through the simple act of embracing yourself. Wrap your arms around your shoulders, hold yourself close, and take a deep breath. Feel the warmth of your own touch, the comfort of your presence. With the arrival of spring, I reflect on growth—my own, ours, and the many versions of ourselves that have shaped us and remain a part of us. Our past selves don’t need to be forgotten; they deserve to be honored. Every stage of our journey is beautiful. What parts of our girlhood still live within us? How does she guide our resistance, our healing, and our dreams? Resistance, Healing, and Dreams Defined To resist is to refuse compliance with injustice. It is the ability to stand firm in our core beliefs even when barriers rise and chaos threatens to break us. Resistance is refusing to let hopelessness win. To heal is to repair the damage—not to return to what was, but to build something new within us. Healing is not a rewind button; it is regeneration. Healing acknowledges the past, learns from it, and grows again — because harm is inevitable, but so is our ability to rise again. We heal through love: by giving love, by asking for love, by offering and receiving forgiveness, compassion, and grace. To dream is to lean into the impossible. Dreams are not bound by logic or reality. They are whispers from a world we long for, a world we create in our minds. And that alone makes them worth holding onto because they are the fuel that keeps us moving forward. The Girl Who Climbed Trees I was a little girl with crisscross rubber-band hairdos and a princess tiara I wore every day to preschool. My tiara would fall off while I climbed the jungle gym or hung upside down on the monkey bars. It would slip as I scaled the giant pine tree outside our apartment complex, my hands sticky with sap, my knees scraped from falls. My mom would sigh, shake her head, and say, “I told you so.”  But I climbed anyway. I climbed with my crown. But I never climbed in the dress. The dress was red with white polka dots—the colors of the Peruvian flag. My grandmother, my mom’s mom, had sent it to me before she passed away, just months after we arrived in the U.S. I never met her, but I had this dress. A memory made just for me. When I wore that dress, people told me I looked beautiful. And I felt it. Words of affirmation have always been my love language. That dress, carefully stored in my mother’s closet, was later passed down to my niece when she, too, moved to the U.S. A piece of home, a piece of love, crossing generations. And yet, as a child, I longed for more than memories. I longed for a reunion. My big brother—16 years older than me—remained in Peru when we left. To me, he became a dream, an almost impossible hope. Riding in the backseat of the car, I would press my forehead to the window as my father sang a simple melody: Little airplane, little airplane, soaring so high, When will you bring my big brother nearby? Little airplane, little airplane, up in the blue, When will you take me to my little Peru? Fourteen years later, that dream finally came true. And today, I still dream of reunions—for all the families separated by borders, by policies, by forces beyond their control. My brother, niece, and I staying active while rock-climbing How to Pull Power from Our Younger Selves Earlier this month, another wound was carved into the fight for justice. Nearly 200 Venezuelan migrants were deported—not home, not to safety, but to holding cells in El Salvador. There was no due process, no chance to plead their case. The government invoked the Alien Enemies Act, a law from the 1700s meant for wartime. But the U.S. is not at war with Venezuela (Barbaro, Tavernese) Even after a judge ordered the planes to turn around, the government refused to comply.  However, the Trump administration claims that they did not disobey the law and did comply with the judge because it was confirmed that two of the planes were already in the air and off American soil when the written order was made, however it is argued that the law covers the American government, not just American soil. One of the planes was still grounded in Texas (Barbaro, Tavernese) And so, the question lingers: What happens when a government defies its own courts?  Our institutions are being tested. Our communities are suffering. And yet—we resist. Resist Resistance is strength—physical, emotional, and communal. It’s discovering what makes you feel powerful and leaning into it. For me, it’s rock climbing and lifting weights, reconnecting with the girl who once scaled trees without fear. But resistance isn’t just personal—it’s collective. It’s about lifting others up, and making them feel strong because when we empower others, we create a movement. As an oncology nurse, I resist by advocating for my patients, by teaching them how to challenge an early discharge that values hospital efficiency over their well-being. I resist by reclaiming my own story—by giving voice to the little girl I once was. Because stories are our most powerful tool. Tell your story. Tell our  story. Let it shake the ground beneath us. Storytelling lives in us, just as it did in our mothers, their mothers, and the generations before them. Like the stories we once listened to as children, the ones that shaped us. Now, it’s our turn to speak. Heal Healing is spreading love and allowing yourself to receive it. It is letting go of the need to return to what was and instead embracing what can be. It is a lifelong practice. In many cultures, especially collectivist ones, we are taught to uphold strength and preserve family honor. But real healing happens when we acknowledge our pain, when we allow ourselves to be seen, held, and understood. Life isn’t always easy, but we don’t have to navigate it alone. If you or someone you love needs support, help is available. Call or text 988  for the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Reach out to Dane County’s NAMI Helpline  at 1-800-950-6264  or text “Helpline” to 62640.  For local resources in English and Spanish, dial 411. You deserve care. You deserve healing. And most of all, you deserve to know—you’re not alone. My mom's backyard in the Spring, where I used to play Dream A dream doesn’t have to be practical. It doesn’t have to make sense. That’s the beauty of it. They are acts of resistance in themselves. Dreams are not goals—they don’t follow timelines or logic. Some dreams take generations. Some require patience beyond what feels possible. But radical change only happens when people dare to dream radically. Pull creativity from your younger self—the girl who played, who imagined, who made up stories just because she could. In our fast-paced world, the easiest way to nurture your dreams is to give yourself grace. Slow down. Take breaks. See things from a new light, a new angle. A Call to Action: Stand with Us Our resistance, healing, and dreams are not just personal—they are collective. They are community-driven. Here’s how you can help: Donate to VERA  – a national organization advocating for immigrant rights and transforming immigration systems. Stay in touch  with   Centro Hispano  and explore their community resources. A few are linked below, but for a full list, visit their website. Share these resources  – Spread the word. Pass them along to your network. Let’s make sure those who need them most have access. There is strength in community. There is power in love. There is transformation in our dreams. And there is a little girl inside each of us, still waiting for her airplane. May we honor her wonder. May we carry her hope forward. References "Trump's Showdown with the Courts." The New York Times The Daily , hosted by Michael Barbaro & Sabrina Tavernese, 19 March. 2025, https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/19/podcasts/the-daily/trumps-judge-deportation-roberts.html

🌟 Join us for our monthly Cyber-Cafecito presentation with Cristina Garcia on Tuesday, April 1st at 6 PM online over Zoom. Explore how cultural humility, while well-intended, can be especially harmful to women of color (WOC) in leadership because it reinforces dynamics that keep them undervalued, overburdened, and under-supported. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in an important conversation! https://www.midwestmujeres.com/event-details-registration/how-cultural-humility-hurts-latinas-in-their-leadership Our speaker, Cristina Garcia, is the founder of Liberation Leadership, a coaching and consulting practice dedicated to supporting non-profit leaders and organizations through an anti-oppressive, healing justice, and liberatory approach. Cristina specializes in staff training, capacity building, and executive coaching, helping leaders find alignment in their values and leadership identity, fostering collective liberation and transformative change. Working with organizations centered on social, racial, and economic justice—particularly those focused on anti-violence, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and migrant rights—Cristina partners with teams to cultivate trust, strengthen communication, and shift organizational culture. Her work emphasizes building connection and harmony, ensuring all voices are seen and heard, and creating healthier, more cohesive organizations ready to drive collective missions forward. #CulturalHumility #Leadership #Webinar #Latinas

Happy Valentine’s Day weekend, dear friends! ❤️ In the spirit of February—the month of love—let’s talk about something essential: money and love . We invite you to say “yes”  to what we’re calling The Money Date! We all know finances matter, yet many of us overlook the benefits of discussing them openly. Throughout your relationship, you’ll encounter countless “Who’s picking up the check?” moments—small but significant opportunities to build financial understanding together. Me and my SO enjoying our Money Date The Benefits of Talking to Your Partner About Money Couples who regularly talk about money experience less stress and greater happiness.  A 2023 study published in the Journal of Financial Psychology  found that couples who discuss finances  at least once per week  tend to have stronger relationships (Donelly et al., 2023) . Setting aside time for Money Dates fosters: Mutual understanding Mutual understanding Shared goals Financial accountability Collaborative decision-making That said, money can be an emotional and sensitive subject. Everyone has unique experiences and beliefs tied to it. No two people are always on the same page about finances—after all, everyone learns about money differently . For some, money represents security or freedom. For others, it might stir feelings of anxiety or even shame. ( Wespath Institutional Investments, 2024 ) . Fear of judgment:  Self-worth is often tied to financial worth, leading to shame or worries about being seen as lazy, irresponsible, or a poor money manager  Fear of conflict:  Money talks can feel like they’ll lead to disagreements Perceived lack of time:  Busy schedules can push these important conversations aside To have productive money conversations, you need to understand your own relationship with money through the  Three Pillars framework . This model outlines three dimensions of money that shape our financial behaviors and relationships ( Journal of Financial Planning, 2001) Acquiring Money : Reflect on how you earn and what drives you—security, freedom, status, or something else. Ask yourself: How much money feels “enough”? What beliefs do I hold about earning, such as “hard work equals success” or “money is luck-driven”? Spending Money : Do your spending habits align with your values and goals, or are they influenced by emotions, impulses, or external pressures? Managing Money : Assess how you plan and organize your finances—budgeting, saving, investing, and tackling debt. Are you proactive or reactive with financial challenges? Financial therapists say, “Knowing your and your partner’s relationship with money is half the battle” (Wespath Institutional Investments, 2024) Money doesn’t have to be a taboo topic! By creating space for open, honest, and compassionate conversations, you and your partner can strengthen your bond.  Make it a date, make it fun,  and most importantly—make it yours. The first step? Pick a date and put it on the calendar! Just like you prioritize doctor’s appointments for your health, this is just as important. It’s your relationship, marriage, and money—it doesn’t get any more serious than that! Make it Fun! Make it Yours! In the early stages According to Ellevest Magazine (2024) , in the early stages of a relationship, it’s essential to focus on exploring if your financial values align, rather than diving into specific financial goals right away. You may find yourselves at different stages—one person could be paying off debt, while the other is saving for something big, building a trust fund, or planning for retirement—and that's okay. It's important to establish a strong foundation based on mutual understanding and respect for each other's financial approach. Ellevest Magazine (2024)  suggests that early financial conversations should be light and easy. One of the first money questions that often comes up on a date is: Who pays? To clarify this, you might say something like, “My treat!” or frame your invite as, “I’d like to take you to dinner” rather than “Want to grab dinner sometime?” These simple adjustments can prevent any awkwardness and set a positive tone for future conversations. When discussing finances on a date, keep it casual and fun with questions like: “Are you saving up for anything fun?” “Where do you want to travel next?” As you continue to talk more and dive deeper,  Cristine Mui with CNBC (2024) suggests keeping financial conversations short and intentional—about 45 minutes max Keep conversations focused and brief—about 45 minutes to an hour max, unless you both agree to go longer. Space out sessions by a few days to build trust and show that you don’t need to tackle everything at once. Avoid overusing the word “money.” Instead, address the emotions tied to it. For instance, “I’m stressed about money” might mean, “I’m worried I’ve made a mistake” or “I’m afraid I’m not good enough.” Listen actively. Many of us talk 80% of the time and listen just 20%. Flip that ratio to encourage meaningful dialogue. What Comes Next Consistency is key. Choose tools that work for both of you. It can be a pen and paper (a personal favorite!), a shared spreadsheet, or a budgeting app you both enjoy. Keeping it regular and working as a team can turn these talks into one of the best parts of your relationship. So, lovebirds, will you say “yes” to the Money Date? Wishing you a Valentine’s weekend filled with love and meaningful connections. ❤️ XoXo, Midwest Mujeres Co. Fernanda Alayo (Blogger) References Gallo, E., (2001, May) Understanding Our Relationship with Money. Journal of Financial Planning .  Donelly, G., Garcia-Rada, X., Olson, J., Nikolova, H., Norton, M. (2023) Couples Underestimate The Benefits Of Talking About Money. Technical Report, 1-23. https://cepr.org/system/files/2023-07/Couples%20Underestimate%20the%20Benefits%20of%20Talking%20About%20Money%20-%20E.%20Donnelly%20Ximena%20Garcia-Rada%20Jenny%20G.%20Olson%20Hristina%20Nikolova%20Michael%20I.%20Norton_0.pdf . Wespath Institutional Investments. (2025, February). Understand Your Relationship With Money. https://www.wespath.org/health-well-being/health-well-being-resources/financial-well-being/understand-your-relationship-with-money Krawcheck, S. (2024, February). How To Talk About Money When You’re Dating . Ellevest Magazine. https://www.ellevest.com/magazine/family-relationships/money-talk-relationship-finances Muis, C. (2024, December). 4 Tips For Talking With Your Partner About Money. https://www.cnbc.com/select/how-talk-your-partner-about-money/ Say "Yes" to the Money Date

The Endowed Objects of Latina Wellness: Finding Comfort and Strength As Latinas, we carry a rich and deep blend of cultural practices and ancestral wisdom that guide us toward wellness, whether we consciously recognize it or not. It's part of human tradition to give meaning to the objects we create and turn them into traditions that offer grounding, healing, and comfort. These endowed objects—altars, rebozos, and even frijoles y arroz—serve as anchors for emotional security and stability, especially in turbulent times. Altars: A Space for Wellness and Reflection One of the most profound examples of our cultural wisdom is the use of altars. In our ambassador program, we encourage women to create altars as reminders of the health and wellness they seek in their lives. These altars, adorned with meaningful objects, photos, candles, and symbols, become sacred spaces for reflection and intention-setting, deeply rooted in our cultural heritage. Altars are profound representations of our culture and history; they hold a unique magic—the ability to ground us and provide a sense of safety. They remind us of our connections to our ancestors, our dreams, and our inner strength. Creating these spaces honors our well-being and invites healing into our lives. These weavings come from our primas en Guanajuato , Mexico The Rebozo: A Symbol of Comfort and Embrace The rebozo, a traditional woven shawl, has deep cultural and emotional significance. Its root word sounds like abrazo , the Spanish word for hug. This is fitting, as the rebozo offers both literal and symbolic warmth and protection. The word rebozo  comes from the Spanish verb rebozar , meaning "to cover" or "to wrap." In our wellness practices, we often include rebozos in altars and spaces where we center Latinas. We want women to feel hugged and wrapped in a space where their culture and experiences are honored. The rebozo becomes an endowed object embedded with the power to ground and comfort us. Everyday Objects as Anchors for Stability In this season of political hostility and uncertainty, objects that offer comfort become even more essential. Whether it's a rebozo, an altar, or a simple plate of frijoles y arroz, these items create an immediate sense of emotional security, anchoring us back to our nido (nest). They remind us of who we are, where we come from, and what sustains us. We are holding up families, in multiple countries, in multiple ways. Each is its own universe of life. We need a rebozo-type of super-she-roe-cape to make it through these politically charged and hostile environments. To make it through these complex environments, we need something that empowers us to keep going, grounded in love and resilience. Fernanda Alayo, RN, Midwest Mujeres, Bilingual Blogger, Reflections from Fernanda Alayo Our blogger Fernanda Alayo shares her cafecito of reflections: "Since moving here, I've also embraced cooking traditional Peruvian dishes, learning how to make four of them. These personal touches help me stay connected to my roots and remind me of my purpose. Being far from home, I often reflect on why I'm here—and I'm reminded that I am here because of the love and support of my family." "They pushed me to pursue my nursing career. I'm proud to be the first in my family to attend college in the U.S. I'm building towards generational wealth, supporting my partner's dreams, and aiming to be a positive role model for my niece. These endowed objects—especially my cozy sweaters—serve as daily reminders of my strength, resilience, and the love that motivates me." Embrace Your Story JOIN US TUESDAY, Feb 11th! 6 PM on Zoom:D Do you feel like writing about your feelings? Reflecting on the objects that ground you and bring you comfort? We'd love to hear your stories and experiences with these endowed objects. Please share about tu rebozo o favorito cosa? Tell us in the comments below, and let's build a community of shared experiences and cultural wisdom. Join us for Transforming Pain Into Purpose: A Journey of Resilience and Healing , an empowering workshop with Candace Sanchez . TUESDAY, FEB 11th, 6 PM on ZOOM! She'll share her personal journey of overcoming childhood trauma and finding strength in her story. Through her coaching and seminars, Candace creates safe spaces for survivors to embrace their truths and unlock the transformative power of resilience. This workshop is a chance to heal, find your voice, and discover how embracing your story can lead to meaningful change. Do you want to donate to our network to help us continue the work of networking, providing state and regional-wide networking and collaboration work? LINK! We have active members in Michigan, IL, and Texas. We also have monthly supporters, some of who are paying to help keep the movement going!! Become a paid member and get additional consultation time! THANK YOU LADIES!!! Silvia G. Holly M. Brandy H. Penelope P. Giselle A. Diana C. Paquita Purnell. Maria E. Jeliel P. Tomy T. Mary P. Graciela L. Monica W. Juliana J Olivia B Vanessa C Michelle M Shirmiel D Fernanda A

Hola Midwest Mujeres, I’m thrilled to introduce myself as Midwest Mujeres’ newest contributor. Follow my work here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernandaalayo/ "¡Yo tambien Quiero Dinero!" - Fernanda Alayo Cordova I am Fernanda Alayo Cordova, a proud Peruvian Latina. I'm an only daughter, a role that has given me a deep connection to the hopes and dreams that resonate within immigrant families. My family—parents, tíos, y tias—has been my rock, strengthening even through the toughest times. One of my proudest achievements is becoming a registered nurse in Michigan. My commitment to health care stems from seeing the differences in health outcomes in the Latino community and wondering why. The final semester of my undergraduate journey was a pivotal moment . Through conversations about population health, I realized the complex interplay of social determinants, policy, pay equity, and their impact on health outcomes. At this time, advocacy struck a chord with me. Sharing my story was healing . Speaking up was empowering. I joined Midwest Mujeres because I'm the most energized and hopeful version of myself when bonding through shared experiences and celebrating the hustle and experience of being a Latina. I'm excited to lend my voice, speaking up for equal pay and the financial wellness of our lovely Midwest Mujeres community. Spoiler Alert!!! Get. Ready. To. Say... "¡Yo Quiero Dinero!"

✨ Take Time for YOU: Start the New Year with Wellness and Reflection ✨ The start of a new year offers a beautiful opportunity to pause, reflect, and set intentions. For Latinas and all women, this moment is especially powerful—a chance to prioritize wellness, reconnect with creativity, and envision a brighter future for yourself and your community. That’s why the Latina Fitchburg Ambassadors, in partnership with Beyond the Page and Fitchburg Public Library, invite you to a special Women’s Wellness Event  on Saturday, January 11, from 11 AM to 2 PM  at the Fitchburg Public Library (5550 Lacey Rd., Fitchburg, WI 53711). This event is a celebration of YOU, filled with activities to refresh and inspire. Whether you’re looking to embrace self-care, channel your creativity, or take a moment for yourself, this is your space to do just that. Why Reflection and Self-Care Matter As women, we often carry the weight of our families, careers, and communities on our shoulders. Taking intentional time to pause and reflect helps us recharge and refocus on our personal goals and dreams. It’s not just self-care—it’s self-preservation and empowerment. For Latinas especially, carving out this time can be transformative. As we honor our cultural roots, we also open doors to new possibilities, building a vision for the future that blends tradition with ambition. The Public library Ambassador programs of Midwest Mujeres! Background of this successful four-year project! In partnership with Dane County public libraries, the Midwest Mujeres Ambassador Program empowers Latina women to build leadership skills while fostering connections between the Latina community and public institutions. The ambassadors organized cultural and wellness events, such as Women’s Wellness Day and Día de los Muertos celebrations, while promoting libraries' valuable resources. Through event planning and peer support, participants will develop the confidence and tools to engage their communities. This program is about creating meaningful connections and cultivating Latina leaders who can advocate for their communities. By bridging the gap between Latina families and public libraries, the Ambassador Program ensures that more families feel welcomed and informed about the opportunities available to them. This program is a celebration of culture, leadership, and civic engagement, helping Latina women inspire change and make a lasting impact. Our Day of the Dead event yielded over 150 people in attendance! L-Lordres, Gracela, Sujhey, and Minda, R-Monica, Araceli, y Tomy What to Expect at the Women’s Wellness Event The Latina Fitchburg Ambassadors host this event: Tomy Tepepa, Monica Weitzel, Loudres Villa, Brittania Mora-Villa , Mary T. Perez, Gracela Laguna, and Jeliel V Pena De First, and Suleyma Alcocer. Our event offers a thoughtfully curated lineup of activities: Vision Board Workshop with Tomy Carmen Tepepa Carmona Led by local artist and Latina crafter Tomy Tepepa, this workshop will guide you in creating a personal vision board to map out your aspirations for the year ahead. Healthy Snack Demo with Monica Weitzel, Instagram influencer Monica Weitzel will share simple, delicious ideas for healthy snacks that nourish your body and inspire your culinary creativity. Relaxing Self-Care Activity: Loudres Villa and Brittania, We’ll end the event with a soothing activity designed to help you unwind and center yourself, leaving you refreshed and ready for the year ahead. Join Us for a Day of Inspiration This free event is a gift to you—a space to connect with other women, tap into your creative energy, and invest in your wellness. Whether you can join us for the whole event or just stop by for a session, this is your time to shine. ✨ Take time for YOU!  ✨ We can’t wait to see you there! Sponsored by Beyond the Page, Fitchburg Public Library, and Midwest Mujeres Hosted by the Latina Fitchburg Ambassadors