It is estimated that there are approximately 60 million people with Latin American roots in the United States, the majority being children and young adults born in this country. This population is diverse in its origins and rich in its history, culture, traditions, and, of course, its language.

A significant majority of Latinos use both Spanish and English to communicate and socialize within their homes. They form emotional bonds in Spanish with members of various Latino communities. It goes without saying that these bonds are fundamental to the overall development of children and young people, as they ensure communication, affection, and the formation of a sense of identity, which in turn benefits the social and academic performance of Latino children and youth. It keeps them connected to their cultural and family heritage, which is invaluable beyond the mere economic benefits of being bilingual.

As mothers and educators, the authors of this project are aware that opportunities to use Spanish with our children are limited and decreasing due to the demands of schooling and socialization in English. For this reason, we decided it was time to launch the cultural magazine YoSoy.

Our title, YoSoy, is a palindrome, reading the same way forwards and backwards. It aims to represent the identity of Latino, Caribbean, and American children and youth who have been shaped between two or even more cultures. YoSoy encourages us to remember that when we can connect with our roots, we can remind ourselves that no matter what:

Between here and there, YoSoy who I want to be.