Hispanic Heritage Month: LOUD Voices Rising in Ulster County

Radio Catskill is marking the start of Hispanic Heritage Month by highlighting the voices, resilience, and celebrations of our Latino community here in the Hudson Valley.

We begin with LOUD — Latin Outreach, Unity, and Development, a grassroots organization co-founded by Sugely Melenciano-Weed and Alessandra Gonzalez, dedicated to connecting Hispanic and immigrant families in Ulster County with vital resources, advocacy, and support.

“People in our community often don’t know where to turn,” Sugely said. “They ask how to fill out paperwork, enroll a child in school, or even how to get a birth certificate. LOUD was created to be that bridge — connecting families with resources that already exist but are hard to access.”

A Growing Need Amid Fear

LOUD’s work has taken on new urgency in recent weeks. Reports of ICE raids in Kingston have left families afraid to go to work, send children to school, or even leave their homes. “The community is very fearful right now,” Sugely explained. “That fear is traumatic. We may not know the full impact of these raids for years.”

LOUD has responded by organizing discreet communication networks through WhatsApp and Facebook groups to share accurate information without causing unnecessary panic. Volunteers provide interpreting services, accompany families to schools or court, and coordinate food deliveries when people are too afraid to visit pantries themselves.

“We’re immigrants too,” said Sugely. “That makes people trust us a little more.”

Beyond Survival: Celebration and Identity

Even in difficult times, Hispanic Heritage Month is a moment of celebration. LOUD is leading a series of events in Kingston, beginning with a proclamation at City Hall on September 15, followed by the Fifth Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival on October 4. The festival will close several city blocks for music, food, art, and community.

“We debated canceling because of safety concerns,” Sugely admitted. “But the community said no — we need to celebrate. We need to show up and show out. We’re not going anywhere.”

Other events include a Hispanic Business Appreciation Luncheon, a Community Quinceañera for local youth, and “The Hispanic Experience,” an art and culture showcase.

Looking Ahead

For Sugely, hope comes from the community itself. “We are fortunate in Ulster County,” she said. “Despite everything, people are coming together, helping one another, and making sure no one is left behind.”

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo will continue these conversations throughout the month, speaking with Hispanic members of our community about identity, belonging, and the contributions Latinos bring to America every day.