When different communities work together, everyone can benefit. That well-known principle is put in practice constantly at the Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers’ (MAPS’) Ambiente Latino, a special program focused on Spanish-speaking gay/bisexual men, and it’s been extremely successful on bringing up information and raising health awareness through several initiatives.
“We are a group of men committed to improve the quality of life of our Latino community,” said Gabriel Roncancio, program coordinator and Latino Men’s Health Educator at MAPS. “Our program was designed to offer a safe and healthy space where people can make new friends, interact and support each other.”
Latinos from many different nationalities have already participated on some of the social, cultural, sport and education activities promoted by Ambiente Latino, not only by being present, but also bringing ideas, planning and promoting events.
“This is a very open and interactive program,” said Roncancio, adding that even though Ambiente Latino is primarily targeted on Spanish speakers, anyone is welcome to join. “We have had some Americans, Brazilians, Asians and representatives of other ethnicities that added diversity to our cultural melting pot.”
“We can always learn something new from someone with a different background,” said one of the program’s volunteers, who asked not to have his name publicly disclosed. “Even within the Latino communities we have discrepancies. Sometimes seeing things through their point of view can make a big difference in your life.”
Recently, Ambiente Latino’s members put together a multi-cultural effort to promote the program’s first Fashion Show, when 12 models from different Latin American countries volunteered to be on the catwalk in costumes, nightwear and other outfits. Close to 100 people, including representatives of other agencies and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health—which supports the program—showed up at the event for a night of beauty, fun and health education.
“It was a marvelous event, a huge success,” said another volunteer. “I am very proud to have been part of it.”
In addition to the events and information provided, Ambiente Latino also offers social services to the community, including doctor and dental referrals, Food Stamps applications, domestic violence prevention and more. For more information, call (508) 259-9889 or visit www.myspace.com/mpowermentlatino (soon on Facebook too).