A Lifelong Dream Come True – Someone Pinch Me!
My name is Hannia Hernández-Mendoza, and I’m proud to be a 2025 National Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Association (NMSHSA) Summer Intern. As a child, I attended Epic Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (MSHS) programs from ages 3 to 5, and today I stand in Washington, D.C., representing families like mine—immigrant, farm-working, and full of dreams.
Growing up in Wenatchee, Washington, agriculture was all I knew. My earliest jobs were in the cherry orchards and fruit-packing warehouses where I found my identity and developed my drive. Because of these experiences, advocating for farmworking families in the nation’s capital through NMSHSA is more than just an internship—it represents a full-circle moment in my journey. I’m pleased to say the NMSHSA staff are all amazing individuals who fuel my fight for change and particularly want to thank Cleofas Rodriguez, Jr., NMSHSA Executive Director and Irma Morin, CEO of Community Council of Idaho, for placing me in rooms with endless opportunities.
Adjusting to D.C. has been a journey in itself. I’ve gotten lost on the metro more times than I can count, dripped with sweat in the thick humidity, and navigated the city with wired headphones and a sense of adventure. Thanks to my cohort, Jean Garcia and Bryan Juarez Ruiz, I’m now confidently hopping from monument to museum, earning the unofficial title of “City Girl.”
One of the most transformative moments so far was attending the 2025 NMSHSA Public Policy Forum (PPF) on June 13th. I connected with Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (MSHS) leaders, directors, parents, and CEOs—many of whom were once Head Start children themselves. I was especially pleased to meet leaders and staff from the MSHS programs in Washington State, including Inspire Development Centers and ESD 105. Although they weren’t my corresponding program, it brings me immense joy knowing they provide safety, stability, and assistance to Washington agriculture families. I also enjoyed learning about legal protections, the setbacks we face from the Trump administration, and how to advocate against injustice.
The next day, I took the knowledge I learned at the PPF to Capitol Hill, participating in six meetings with the following offices, Representative Rick Larsen (D-WA, 2nd District), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Representative Kim Schrier (D-WA, 8th District), and Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA). At each meeting, we reaffirmed the value of MSHS programs, and I left every room feeling heard, empowered, and hopeful.
Outside of work, I’ve experienced D.C. in full color—World Pride, the office of Representative Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (D-NY, 14th District), protests, thrift markets, and national landmarks. Every moment reminds me: this is real. I’m living a dream that once felt impossible, and I’m just getting started.