Growing up in a primarily white town, I am what people would call “white washed.” I even call myself that at times. Just because I am white washed and love country music, and love American food does not mean that I am not proud of whom I am.
Being a second-generation immigrant, and white-washed, many do not think that I have remained intact with my native roots. My parents taught me Spanish since a young age. They never wanted for me to lose the language or forget my roots. Having family who speaks no English, I am able to better communicate with them and they appreciate it.
For many who do not really know me, it comes as a surprise when they learn that I can speak Spanish. Because of where I grew up and the small population of Latinos on my college campus I do not have much of an opportunity to speak the language. Knowing Spanish has an advantage. At my job, I am able to communicate with those who do not speak English. Spanish is not only spoken in Mexico but in many other countries, therefore I am able to meet people from different Spanish-speaking regions and compare the differences in the dialect.
I appreciate being Latina, even if at times it does not seem that I am. In high school, I was the student in my class that was able to skip Spanish 1 and just take Spanish 2. I am thankful to my parents for teaching me such a beautiful language. Not only do I know Spanish but I also know American Sign Language. Therefore, I am not bilingual but trilingual. I appreciate my culture. I love studying people such as Cesar Chavez in class; it is one of my favorite topics.
I remain close to my roots despite my surroundings. I love listening to Spanish music, eating Mexican food, and speaking and learning about my families past from my grandparents and tia’s and tio’s. I am not afraid to walk into a Mexican restaurant and order in Spanish. One of my favorite childhood memories was sitting in my tia’s back yard eating menudo on Sunday mornings with Spanish music playing in the background and the laughter and joy of the family.
The country where my family originated is a beautiful country. It is because of those before me that I am able to live a free life. My family went through a lot immigrating to the United States. Family members were left behind, and they arrived with nothing. They had to find jobs, and homes. Knowing that these hardships were done all in hopes of finding a better future for the future generations is what keeps me going. I want nothing more than to make my grandparents and parents proud. My parents of course did not have as tough of a life as my grandparents and I of course live a much better life than theirs. That is why I study hard, to continue the efforts in creating a better future. That is why I am a proud educated Latina.
