Ep06 Empowering Latinas in the U.S.: Diana Martínez García on Identity & Change

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In this powerful episode of From Where to Here, host Alexandra Lloyd sits down with Diana Martínez García, an immigrant rights advocate and cultural connector who crossed the U.S.-Mexico border as a child. From navigating two identities to lobbying in D.C. for DACA, Diana shares her journey of resilience, advocacy, and uplifting young Latinas in Alabama through her work with Virtual Promotoras.

We explore what it means to belong in two cultures, break down stereotypes about Mexican identity, and dive into the unspoken challenges immigrant communities face—especially around access to healthcare and reproductive education.

Whether you're passionate about social justice, Latinx voices, or simply love stories that inspire change, this episode will stay with you.
🌶️ Key Takeaways

Advocacy begins with personal experience — Diana’s story shows how lived experience can be a powerful tool for change, especially in shaping policy and creating access to resources.

Cultural identity is complex and non-linear — We explore how Diana navigates feeling “too Mexican for the U.S., too American for Mexico,” and what true belonging looks like.

Reproductive health conversations matter — Through Virtual Promotoras, Diana is creating safe spaces for young Latinas to learn about their bodies, their rights, and their futures.

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🔗 Links & How to Diana Martínez García
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📍 Follow & Connect with Diana Martínez García:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_risasyrizos/
• Study email: [email protected]

📍 Recommended Resources from This Episode:

• DACA Program: https://www.uscis.gov/DACA
• Salud Taqueria: https://www.saludbham.com/
• El Girasol: https://orderelgirasol.com/
• DREAM Act: https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/365
• Bracero Program: https://guides.loc.gov/latinx-civil-rights/bracero-program
• HB56 Law: https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/files/pdf/SearchableInstruments/2024RS/HB56-int.pdf

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Sponsor Feature: Red Cat Coffee House
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This episode is brought to you by Red Cat Coffee House and their Landmark Series Coffees. You can find the coffee blends online at https://theredcatcoffeehouse.com/shop/, at your Red Cat locations, or at your local Piggly Wiggly.

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Chapters

1. Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Crossing the Border (00:03:04)

3. This Was Our Only Choice (00:08:08)

4. Two Worlds, One Heart (00:16:02)

5. Let’s Talk Tortillas & Real Mexican Food (00:24:17)

6. “Where Are You From?” Isn’t Simple (00:31:00)

7. A Flirting Fail (00:36:19)

8. Passport Bros & “Too Empowered” Women? (00:40:37)

9. Beyond the Labels (00:46:11)

10. Empowering Young Latinas (00:47:09)

11. Let’s Talk Sex Ed (for Real) (00:55:06)

12. Understanding DACA (01:01:04)

13. The Original Dreamers (01:07:05)

14. Individualism vs. Community (01:09:08)

15. What If It Had Gone Differently? (01:16:26)

16. Dancing Around the Words (01:20:59)

17. Passion, Telenovelas & Love Nicknames (01:23:13)

18. Truth, Dare, or Debunk Segment (01:28:03)

19. Hope for the Next Generation (01:42:16)

20. Support Her Mission (01:47:48)

21. Calling Young Latinas in Alabama (01:48:45)