Preservation of Culture

Even as a youth, Casimiro Rodriguez Sr. understood the importance of education and its correlation to social justice. Born and raised in Western New York, he was the twelfth of thirteen children. His parents left Puerto Rico, seeking a better standard of living for their family in the City of Lackawanna. Casimiro took advantage of every benefit this adopted hometown offered him. A graduate of the State University of New York at Buffalo and a product of the Buffalo Public school system, he availed himself of the area’s educational opportunities. The work ethic his parents instilled in him, coupled with his love of learning set the stage for future success. 

This mindset served him well in the corporate world. Accepting an entry-level position at General Motors, he worked his way up the corporate ladder. A 33-year career in management with General Motors took him around the globe. Living in Mexico, Italy, China, and several European countries, he cultivated a deep appreciation and understanding of different cultures. These experiences shaped the way he looked at the world, fostering a global worldview.

Despite success in the corporate arena and exposure to disparate cultures, Casimiro yearned for something more. Recognizing a need in the Hispanic community, he found his calling. When the opportunity presented itself, Casimiro seized it. In 2009, he was asked to serve on the Erie County Cultural Arts Advisory Board, learning first-hand the importance of the cultural arts sector. Recognizing a lack of Hispanic representation, in 2010 he founded the Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York Inc. to promote the area’s tourism, arts, culture, and Hispanic heritage.

In 2012, this organization, in collaboration with the Buffalo History Museum and the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, began a history project presenting oral repositories that contained fascinating spoken stories and exhibits about local Hispanic heritage, history, and culture. They also worked with the City of Buffalo Common Council to create and designate the Niagara Street Corridor, the Hispanic Heritage District in West Buffalo. Today much of the local Hispanic history is depicted on murals, parapets, way finding, and interpretive signage in the heart of this community. With his passion and commitment plans are underway to build the first Upstate New York Hispanic Heritage Cultural Institute to preserve the community’s history and celebrate its culture. The organization also helps those with Hispanic heritage feel more connected to their roots, sharing their culture with the community at large.

Casimiro has always believed in the importance of taking advantage of opportunities. Young people must possess this trait if they hope to become tomorrow’s leaders and make positive changes in society. Casimiro has devoted his life to service and social justice. But his work is not done. He intends to dedicate the rest of his life to preserving his heritage and encouraging the younger generation to become strong, passionate leaders.

_____________________

Casimiro Rodriguez Sr. is a retired General Motors Executive and founder of the Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York Inc. who dedicates his life to preserving Hispanic heritage.