HuRakan was a mythological god in the Taino cultureS. They believed that this entity, also called Juracán and Guabancex, was an angry, raging spirit with a purpose to create chaos with heavy winds and rain. They were very afraid of this made-up entity, which was believed to be controlling the weather. The Spanish colonizers selected the word to create their version of Huracan, and the English language created Hurricane.

My family has experienced many hurricane seasons throughout the years. I often remember my parents telling their stories of the fears and sadness due to the loss of homes, memories from sentimental items, and pictures. Evy and I remember losing toys and clothing. It was quite a devastating time in our lives growing up in Puerto Rico, and at the same time, a sense of community when pulling each other up from the debris, so to speak, is the reason I am proud of my heritage.