Womyn 1: La Xicana (31 Womyn / 31 Days)

So today I woke up wanting to honor womyn who have made significant contributions whether they be to humanity, society, community, culturally, spiritually, or politically… womyn who have transformed or affected my life. Some of these womyn will be new to you… others you may already know a little about… but ALL are worth mentioning and honoring.

For each day in March in honor of Womyn’s Herstory Month I will pick a name at random from a hat and tell you why I HONOR HER~

31 Womyn in 31 days~

Day 1: La Xicana

She’s known as Wonder Woman~
She’s fierce~
Fearless~
Born in LA~
Raised in Mexico~

This brave woman left everyone she knew and loved… leaving the beautiful sunsets of the West Coast and took a risk. She risked it all and moved to New York City. A city than can be incredibly overwhelming.

She landed in El Barrio/Spanish Harlem. It wasn’t long before she made it her home. She chose careers that aligned with who she is and surrounded herself with children and community. Once there… she immediately discovered what was missing. She knew what she must do and give to this community.

Books~

Lots and lots of books~

She had a vision
A dream…
Her personal legend~

Her vision was one that would ensure that the children and families of El Barrio would have access to books. And with that vision La Casa Azúl Bookstore was born~
Aurora Anaya-Cerda’s vision has become a reality… her dream come true~

Ms. Aurora Anaya- Cerda is an active member of the East Harlem community as a participant and supporter of cultural and educational events. A graduate of UCLA, Ms. Anaya-Cerda has a double Bachelor’s degree in History and Chicana/o Studies and a minor in Education. She was awarded the Juanita Centeno Leadership Award and the UCLA Women for Change Leadership Award, both for outstanding dedication and service to her community. Aurora recently received a scholarship from the New Start Fund, awarded to women entrepreneurs in New York City.

The inspiration behind the bookstore name:

“La Casa Azúl Bookstore is inspired by Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. She painted using vibrant colors in a style that was influenced by indigenous cultures of Mexico as well as European influences. Many of her works are self-portraits that symbolically express her own pain. Her "Blue" house, located in Coyoacan, Mexico City is now a popular museum, donated by Diego Rivera after Kahlo's death in 1954.”

Today, I honor you… your efforts, your dedication, your undying love for community and I wish you continued success~

Please visit La Casa Azúl online: http://www.lacasaazulbookstore.com/



Peace, light and LOVE~
Always Alicia