Health disparities research has recently begun to look at social determinants of healthy living, this includes social, cultural, and political factors. Approximately half of New Mexicans identify as Latinx, many living in rural communities, having poor access to quality care. The presenter will share their personal story as a Latinx New Mexican in the context of social, cultural, and political history that may have implications for health disparities we see today and for potential interventions based on traditional medicine.