In celebration of Latinx Heritage Month, we are hosting a series of profiles and stories to amplify and honor people, businesses, organizations, and projects connected to Seattle’s Latinx community.

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by Cecelia “Mousy DeVilla” DeLeon

Born and raised in WA, I’ve been here all of my life. I grew up in White Center, where I bussed through South Park on the 60 as a teenager. In all my years living in the area, I’ve seen growth and change within the community, mostly in a gentrified sense. Towering condos that cast shadows on smaller houses. The kids on bikes are now replaced with grown men on green electric scooters. It’s wild to see how the neighborhood has changed in this way. But knowing some things are still there gives me hope that not all is lost.  

The Latinx community continues to grow in Seattle, in pockets of each neighborhood. I hope that everyone who lives here can enjoy this the way I have been able to. Whether they are creating memories through food or through spending quality family time. I find comfort in knowing I can find things that are culturally relevant to my needs. Like knowing where to get pan dulce and ceviche.

I stay connected to my community through food and events, breaking bread with each other and supporting small businesses so that everyone eats. This is what I grew up doing and continue to do because I want to see everyone win.

Cecelia DeLeon works under the alias Mousy DeVilla to create digital illustrations and design work through 3d Installations and public art. She was born and raised in Washington and continues to call it her home. You can find her work here www.mousydevilla.com or on IG @mousy.devilla.

This piece was commissioned by the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods. The opinions expressed and information contained herein do not necessarily reflect the policies, plans, beliefs, conclusions, or ideas of the City of Seattle.