Conversaciones de Salud E-Newsletter
...serving the Hispanic/Latinx/Latine/Latino/Afrodescendientes/Indigenous-Latino and Asian-Latino communities.
HAPPY HISPANIC HERITAGE
MONTH
CARMEN ROBLES’ LETTER
PAGE 2
WE CAN DO MORE FOR THE OPIOID CRSIS
PAGE 4
OPIOID EPIDEMIC: HENNEPIN COUNTY OPIOID RESPONSE
PAGE 6
LatinoLEAD Leadership, Equity, Achievement, Development: Empowering Latino Leaders for a Brighter Tomorrow
PAGE 8
ESQUINA LATINA
PAGE 10
CARMEN ROBLES’
Dear Conversaciones de Salud Community,
As we step into September, we are not only welcoming the start of Hispanic Heritage Month but also commemorating a significant milestone—five years of opioid awareness through our beloved Conversaciones de Salud
It’s hard to believe that half a decade has passed since we began this journey to address the devastating impact of opioid misuse in our communities. Together, we have built a platform that serves as a voice for the voiceless, educating and empowering those affected by this crisis. I’m proud of the work we’ve done, from creating life-saving awareness about opioids and fentanyl to providing essential resources for our underserved Hispanic/Latino and Afro-Latino communities
In celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, we reflect on the resilience and strength of our communities. It’s a time to honor the rich cultures and traditions that shape our identity, while also recognizing the challenges we face. Opioid addiction has disproportionately impacted many Hispanic families, but together we continue to fight back with awareness, education, and resources.
Our journey doesn’t stop here. As we look to the future, Conversaciones de Salud will continue to be a driving force in raising awareness, advocating for health equity, and empowering our youth to lead the way.
Thank you for being a part of this mission over the last five years, and for your continued support as we grow stronger together.
Let’s celebrate the beauty of our heritage while standing united in our fight for a healthier, more informed community.
Con cariño,
Carmen Robles
Youth Community Journalism — Episode 2: 5 Years of Opioids Awareness With Conversaciones de Salud
We can do more for the opioid crisis
Mental health and addiction are the root of many problems.
By Eric Ortiz
We have a growing problem that not a lot people understand. Behaviors are happening on the streets and in schools that are unprecedented. Principals, teachers, and behavioral specialists can't explain it.
But there is an explanation.
I was talking to a veteran emergency room doctor the other day, and he told me that he is seeing things he has never seen before as a result of untreated traumatic stress, mental health, and fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid drug that is 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.
People are falling through the cracks, and the downstream consequences of untreated traumatic
stress and mental health, self-medicated with substances, and in the setting of fentanyl, are punitive unlike anything in history.
Opioids are not a new problem. Since 2022, over 150,000 people have died from fentanyl overdoses in the United States. A global network is behind this fentanyl crisis. [...]
As Sahan Journal reported: "If more people understood how opioids have devastated their people, according to Somali, Native American, and Southeast Asian leaders, communities could secure more funding and resources. Accurate data, they say, will convince people to pay attention and find solutions."
Opioid addiction is a reality many communities confront today. As community members deal with the impacts of substance use disorder, mitigating trauma for our children must be a central part of the conversation.
On Sept. 6, at the St. Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN), the Strong Mind Strong Body Foundation and Conversaciones de Salud at Carmen Robles and Associates LLC hosted a youth community journalism town hall conversation on solutions for the opioid crisis.
Conversaciones de Salud has been leading a five-year effort to address the opioid crisis through an awareness campaign. This work has been supported by SPNN, Minnesota Department of Human Services, Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, Suburban Ramsey Family Collaborative, Hue-Man Partnership, and a multitude of partners, supporters, and volunteers. The show on Sept. 6 solidified the
inclusion of youth and community journalism. The purpose of "Youth Community Journalism — Episode 2: 5 Years of Opioids Awareness With Conversaciones de Salud" program was to raise awareness, share stories, and discuss solutions to the opioid crisis.
Students, ages 9-15, from the Strong Mind Strong Body Foundation's Youth Community Journalism Institute led this important conversation with national experts, community leaders, and affected families.
The conversation was in English and Spanish and showcased two mothers who lost their sons to fentanyl.
"I would love a day where we don't have to have these conversations," said Bridgette Norring, whose 19-year-old son, Devin, died due to fentanyl poisoning in 2020. "But I'm honored to be here, and I thank you guys because I think you, the youth, the teens, the young adults, you guys are going to be a really big driving force in this."
More community engagement and education can save lives.
We plan to do more.
Youth Community Journalism monthly show schedule:
Oct. 4, 2024
Nov. 1, 2024
Dec. 6, 2024
Jan. 3, 2025
Feb. 7, 2025
March 7, 2025
April, 4, 2025
May 2, 2025
June 6, 2025
Oct. 3, 2025
July 11, 2025
Aug. 1, 2025
Nov. 7, 2025
Dec. 5, 2025
Sept. 5, 2025
Click here to read the full article
Watch the conversation on solutions for the opioid crisis at the Strong Mind Strong Body Foundation's YouTube channel (Click here) and St. Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN) (Click here)
Special thanks to our guests:
Dr. Hector Colon-Rivera, MD, MBA, MRO
Bridgette Norring, Devin J. Norring Foundation
Alma Sanchez Quiroz, Community Member
Cynthia Munguia MPA, CPRS, Executive Director, Minnesota Recovery Connection
Lolita Ulloa, Director of Hennepin County’s Opioid Response Initiative
Special thanks to our partners, Hue-Man and the St. Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN).
Executive producers
Carmen Robles
Eric Ortiz
and
and operations
Lyric Rogers, age 14, 9th grade (co-host), Cynthia Munguia (guest) and Jesús Rojas, age 15, 10th grade (co-host)
Lyric wrote more articles about homelessness for Ella Baker News (Click on each to OPEN):
• What is the city doing about homelessness?
• Please stop hurting the homeless
Christian Flores, age 14, 9th grade, camera operator
Cal Ortiz, age 9, 4th grade (Director), Eric Ortiz (Executive producer)
Steve Brunsberg (Technical
director)
Opioid epidemic
The misuse of and addiction to prescription pain relievers, heroin, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl is an increasing crisis that affects families and communities throughout the U.S.
Hennepin County
Hennepin County’s approach recognizes that the opioid epidemic is complex and requires a multifaceted health and safety response.
Learn how Hennepin County is responding to the opioid epidemic.
• Substance involved emergency and hospital visits in Hennepin County data – Power BI dashboard
• Opioid-related deaths of county and state residents data – Power BI dashboard
Printable overview in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong
• English - Hennepin County opioid resources
• Español (Spanish) - Recursos para opioides del condado de Hennepin
• Hmoob (Hmong) - Kev pab txog tshuaj loog opioid hauv Cheeb Nroog Hennepin
• Soomaali (Somali) - Tasiilaadka Maandooriyaha ee Degmada Hennepin
september 2024 events:
September training and events
This document includes trainings and events that are open to the public. Click here to OPEN
September meetings and services
This document includes recovery meetings and services that are open to the public. Click here to OPEN
The HUE-MAN Partnership, led by Clarence Jones, and the Hawthorne Huddle, directed by Diana Hawkins, are at the forefront of the fight against opioid misuse in Hennepin County, Minneapolis. Alongside Carmen Robles, director of Conversaciones de Salud, these dedicated leaders are working to combat the opioid crisis within the community. Through collaborative efforts, education, and community outreach, they aim to raise awareness, provide resources, and support those affected by opioid misuse. We thank them for their commitment and tireless efforts to create a healthier, safer community for all.
Nitrous oxide or ‘nang’ abuse is on the rise. Here’s why health professionals are worried
Nitrous oxide is known as "laughing gas", but with health effects ranging from severe nerve damage to death, its abuse is no joke.
An ABC investigation has heard cases of teenagers as young as 16 presenting to hospital with paralysis and other serious health issues because of misusing nitrous oxide.
Health professionals are increasingly concerned about ease of access as it can be purchased without verification of age and delivered in under an hour, 24 hours a day.
Click here to SEE MORE
RECURSOS EN ESPAÑOL
El fentanilo: Una pastilla mata
Lo que deben saber los padres: Ya sea que usted quiera informar a su hijo de los peligros o que esté preocupado por un ser querido que consume drogas, ahora es el momento de hablar del fentanilo. Converse sobre esto de forma tranquila y directa, y escuche a la persona sin juzgarla. Elaboren juntos un plan que garantice la seguridad de la persona.
Click aquí para SABER MÁS
¿Por qué más adolescentes usan fentanilo?
El aumento del consumo de fentanilo por parte de los adolescentes puede estar relacionado con otros problemas en aumento: los problemas de salud mental y los tasas de suicidio en adolescentes. Los adolescentes también han estado usando más productos de THC (tetrahidrocannabinol), a los que pueden volverse tolerantes, lo que los lleva a buscar otras formas de drogarse.
Debido a que el fentanilo es barato de producir, los traficantes de drogas pueden mezclarlo con otros fármacos. En su forma en polvo, el fentanilo se mezcla más comúnmente con heroína, cocaína y metanfetamina. Los traficantes de drogas también hacen la mezcla en píldoras que se parecen a otros opioides y medicamentos recetados, como Oxycontin, Percocet, Vicodin, Adderall o Xanax.
“Los niños deben comprender que no pueden confiar en ninguna píldora que se les dé”, añade el Dr. Atkinson.
Click aquí para SABER MÁS
Leadership, Equity, Achievement, Development: Empowering Latino Leaders for a Brighter Tomorrow
“The essence of leaders rooted in community and inclusivity, that helps chart a brighter, barrierfree future for Latinos in Minnesota.
”These powerful words reflect the mission of LatinoLEAD, a dynamic organization dedicated to advancing leadership, equity, achievement, and development within the Latino community.
On September 5th and 6th, LatinoLEAD hosted its fourth annual Latine Leadership Conference, LíderCon, at Best Buy’s headquarters. This twoday event brought together Latine professionals and allies from diverse sectors to empower, inspire, and cultivate impactful leadership. LíderCon provided a variety of professional development workshops, panels featuring national and regional leaders, keynote speakers, and invaluable networking opportunities. The event was designed to inspire attendees and equip them with the tools to pursue their passions with determination, forge meaningful
connections, and further develop their leadership capabilities.
With the theme “Avanzando tu Liderazgo” or “Advancing your Leadership”, LíderCon focused on providing participants with the insights and resources necessary to continue growing as leaders within their communities and beyond. It was a unique platform where Latine professionals and community allies gathered, engaged in thought-provoking discussions,
Community Impact Honoree Award
and worked together to foster collective growth and empowerment for the benefit of the Latine community.
A key highlight of LíderCon was the LatinoLEAD Impact Awards, which recognized local Latine leaders and allies who exemplify community-centered, inclusive leadership. These awards celebrated individuals whose dedication and work have made significant contributions toward breaking down systemic inequities and creating a brighter future for Latinos in Minnesota.
opportunities for Latinos in Minnesota. Her leadership, rooted in community and inclusivity, has made a lasting impact, and LatinoLEAD recognized her work as a beacon of empowerment and positive change.
The awards, presented during the LíderCon 2024 Closing Ceremony, shined a spotlight on the remarkable work being done by leaders within the Latino community. LatinoLEAD hopes that celebrating these efforts will inspire others to take action, fostering a ripple effect of positivity, inspiration, and
2024 Award Winners:
Robert Hanson: Solidarity Award
The Solidarity Award honored individuals who stand steadfastly with the Latine community, regardless of their background, working tirelessly to champion the community's causes and dreams. Robert Hanson exemplified these qualities, providing unwavering support and advocacy for the Latino community.
Carmen Robles: Community Impact Honoree Award
Carmen Robles was honored with the Community Impact Honoree Award for her outstanding contributions to eliminating barriers and creating
empowerment throughout the community.
LíderCon 2024 not only celebrated current leaders but also inspired the next generation of changemakers. Participants left the conference with renewed inspiration, enhanced professional skills, and a network of connections to help advance their leadership journeys.
LatinoLEAD looks forward to continuing its mission and building a brighter future for the Latino community with the help of inspiring leaders like Carmen Robles and Robert Hanson, who continue to advocate for a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
Marcus Hill,Dr. Jessica Cabek, Robert Hanson and Dr. Albert Johnson
EsquinaLatina
Destacamos el aporte de 10 figuras latinas en el Mes de la Herencia Hispana
Click aquí para SABER MÁS
Cinco cosas que debes saber sobre el Mes de la Herencia Hispana
Es una celebración nacional para honrar la historia, la cultura y la influencia quienes llegaron de España, América Latina y El Caribe.
Click aquí para SABER MÁS
Conoce la historia de la Salsa una gran fusión de géneros musicales y bailables, que, al mezclarse, dieron lugar a uno de los ritmos más populares en el mundo. Aprende acerca de su origen, los géneros y artistas que influenciaron su surgimiento, los distintos estilos que existen y cuál ha sido su evolución, alcance e impacto.
Click aquí para SABER MÁS
La leyenda de los chiles en nogada
El nacimiento de los chiles en nogada estuvo influido por el movimiento independentista; también existe otra leyenda menos conocida que apunta a una historia amorosa.
Click aquí para SABER MÁS
CONOCIMIENTO FINANCIERO
con Elvis Rivera
Elvis Rivera identifica a sí mismo como un individuo que es corporativo durante el día, activista comunitario por la noche y líder de servicio siempre.
Pregunta: ¿Cómo entendió ese niño inmigrante de primera generación de Guatemala las tasas de interés? ¿Cuántos años tenía? ¿Cuáles fueron las circunstancias para que él quisiera 'ahorrar' ? ¿Cómo ahorró ese niño su primer dólar? ¿En un banco? ¿Debajo de la cama en un frasco? ¿La abuela se lo sostuvo?
Elvis Rivera: Cuando era niño, nunca entendí las tasas de interés, o el dinero, excepto que era esta fuerza "divina" que todos parecían perseguir, pero siempre se sintió fuera de mi alcance. La pobreza y yo nos conocíamos bien, pero me negué a aceptarla como mi realidad. Más tarde en la vida, me di cuenta de que el dinero no era una fuerza mística; Era una herramienta, como cualquier otra, que teníamos que aprender a usar. También llegué a entender que nuestra percepción del dinero dicta nuestro comportamiento con él. Antes de que podamos aprender a utilizarlo de manera efectiva, primero debemos comprender nuestra propia psicología hacia él. No me di cuenta de esto hasta mediados de mis 20 años, después de que la vida me había golpeado y me cansé de vivir de cheque en cheque mientras intentaba presentar al mundo una imagen de que no estaba luchando. Fue entonces cuando decidí dejar de temer al proverbial "monstruo debajo de la cama" y elegí mirar directamente a lo que realmente estaba allí. Comencé aprendiendo cómo funcionan los puntajes de crédito, lo que luego me llevó a comprender cómo se crean las empresas. Eventualmente, comencé a preguntarme qué estaban haciendo los ricos de manera diferente a los que me rodeaban, y así fue como me topé con las inversiones. Cuanto más aprendía, más me daba cuenta de lo mucho que no sabía. Leí libros, me reuní con personas que entendían el dinero y busqué la tutoría de aquellos que tenían éxito con él. Poco a poco, empecé a sentirme como un niño en una tienda de dulces. De repente, esta "cosa" que alguna vez fue intimidante llamada dinero ya no era tan aterradora, y todos mis esfuerzos la redefinieron en mi mente, no como algo a lo que temer o amar, sino como una herramienta que debía dominarse. Sé que esto no responde del todo a las preguntas que les hiciste, pero da mi experiencia, ¡espero que te ayude!
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