The Buffalo Bills are marking Hispanic Heritage Month with several initiatives, including a t-shirt design contest that highlights Hispanic and Latino heritage. Contestants submitted artwork representing what the month means to them, and the winning entry was created by Tayrin Tapia, owner of Latinas Evolving LLC, and Ally Marcano, social media strategist for Latinas Evolving LLC and head graphic designer for the Buffalo Bisons.
Their limited-edition shirts will be sold, with part of the proceeds supporting local Hispanic community organizations. The winning design features a circular logo made up of flags representing Hispanic heritage. Marcano explained her vision: “I wanted the design to reflect the diversity and unity within the Hispanic and Latino community. Putting all the flags together felt powerful because it shows how no matter where we’re from, we are stronger when we stand together.”
Tapia added context to their inspiration: “It reminded me of the song ‘We Are the World’ by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, where every singer, no matter their race or ethnicity, came together to contribute to a bigger cause. That same sense of unity is what this design represents.”
For both designers, working on this project was meaningful beyond its artistic value. Tapia stated: “Collaborating on this project with the Bills felt like a dream turned reality. It’s more than just a t-shirt; it’s a reflection of our culture, resilience, and the diversity that unites our community.”
Tapia shared how her upbringing in Puerto Rico shaped her identity: “My Hispanic heritage is my foundation. It represents resilience, strength, culture, and pride in where I come from. I was born in Puerto Rico, on the island that radiates light and culture through the sound of the ocean waves, the coquí at night, the breeze through the palm trees, and the singing and dancing to bomba and plena.” Marcano also described her connection to her roots: “Being Puerto Rican is a huge part of who I am. My heritage connects me to my family, my culture and the island that shaped so much of my identity. I had the honor of playing softball for Puerto Rico, which was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Representing my culture on the field reminded me of the pride, resilience, and passion that comes with being Hispanic.”
Both have found Buffalo to be welcoming since moving there as children or young adults—and became dedicated fans along with their families. Tapia recalled: “I came to Buffalo at age 12 in spring 1992 when Jim Kelly was quarterback… I’ll never forget hearing ‘The Bills Make Me Want to Shout’ on Kiss 98.5 after a touchdown; my mom, brother and I danced in our living room like lifelong fans.”
Marcano expressed appreciation for being recognized by an organization she admires: “It means so much to see an organization as big as the Buffalo Bills celebrate Hispanic Heritage,” she said. “As someone who lived in Buffalo for past few years and is proud of her roots it makes me feel seen.” Tapia echoed this sentiment: “It means everything,” she explained. “Representation matters… when an organization like The Bills takes time to celebrate Hispanic heritage along with all cultures races ethnicities it validates impact our community makes every day.”
Despite these positive steps forward they acknowledged ongoing challenges facing their communities—particularly around recognition respect opportunity—and committed themselves through Latinas Evolving LLC toward supporting Latina entrepreneurs locally.
“Latinas Evolving is dedicated to empowering Latina entrepreneurs and leaders by creating spaces programs resources where they feel seen heard supported,” said Tapia.”We also recognize our Latino male allies who stand with us… We publish annual magazine host panel discussions Cafecito gatherings build platforms where voices stories can thrive… It’s about reinvesting directly into our community creating cycle support builds lasting impact.”
A portion of proceeds from shirt sales will go directly toward these efforts.
