Workshop: Music and Identity in Puerto Ricans: The Sonic Landscape of Resistance and Resilience
Dr. Delio Figueroa & Dr. Julia Roncoroni
1.5 hours
This session explores how music has shaped Puerto Rican cultural identity, both historically and
in modern times. Dr. Figueroa will highlight the African, Spanish, and Taino influences that have
formed the foundations of Puerto Rican music, focusing on genres like Bomba and Plena as tools
of cultural resistance. The session will then transition to a discussion of how contemporary
genres like Reggaetón reflect evolving Puerto Rican identity. Dr. Roncoroni will examine how
music has been instrumental in fostering resilience after Hurricane María, challenging recovery
narratives, and embodying a refusal to conform to imposed social narratives.

Noche de Cultura
Desde Cero is a Puerto Rican Bomba group founded in 2004, committed to reviving and
evolving this Afro-Puerto Rican genre. Through their music, they honor Black heritage, resist
colonial narratives, and contribute to anti-racist work by celebrating and preserving Afro-
Caribbean culture. Led by Rafael Maya, their work fosters community, cultural activism, and the
promotion of Black identity, making them a recognized force in the genre.

Black/Afro-Latinx Connection Room
This dedicated space is created for Black and Afro-Latinx psychologists and psychology students
to come together, share experiences, and connect in a supportive environment. It offers a
welcoming atmosphere for reflection, dialogue, and mutual support, providing respite from the
broader conference environment. Whether you seek meaningful conversations, networking
opportunities, or a moment of peace, this room is designed to foster a sense of community and
belonging.

Panel: Navigating Pathways - Insights and Inspirations from Black/Afro-Latinx Academics
at Different Career Stages
This panel brings together Black/Afro-Latinx scholars from various stages of their academic
careers—an advanced graduate student (Ammy E. Sena, MA), an early career professional (Dr.
Bryan O. Rojas Araúz), and an established scholar (Dr. Jasmine Mena)—to discuss the unique
challenges and opportunities they encounter within the academic landscape. The session is
designed to foster an understanding of the continuum of experiences that shape the professional
journeys of Black/Afro-Latinx individuals in academia.

Panel: Cultivating Connections: Culturally Attuned Mentoring in Latinx Psychology
Our panel brings together experienced faculty members (Dr. Patricia Arredondo, Dr. Jeanett
Castellanos, Dr. Delgado-Romero, Dr. Melanie Domenech Rodriguez, and Dr. Lisa Flores) who
have demonstrated excellence in mentoring Latinx mentees, providing them with both
professional guidance and personal support that acknowledge their unique cultural backgrounds.
Creating a sense of belonging and community is crucial for the academic success and personal
well-being of Latinx students. The panel will explore essential elements that contribute to this
sense of community within labs and departments, such as hosting culturally relevant academic
events, establishing minority support networks, and advocating for equitable representation
across all levels of academic engagement.

Pre-Conference Sessions: Exploring Puerto Rican History and Culture
These pre-conference sessions are designed to deepen conference participants' understanding of
Puerto Rico's rich history and vibrant culture. Through engaging discussions and expert-led
presentations, attendees will explore the island's political and economic history, its complex
relationship with the United States, and the ongoing challenges shaped by its colonial legacy.
These sessions will provide a comprehensive overview of Puerto Rican identity, culture, and
resilience, offering valuable insights that will enrich our collective knowledge and prepare us for
the conversations ahead at the National Latinx Psychological Association Annual Conference.