Being Latino is more than just an ethnicity, it’s a culture, a way of life, it’s our familia. Being a Latin woman is more than just having ancestry from a Latin country, just stating, “I’m Latino” implies history, culture and the uniqueness of being Latin American that I wear proudly. For whatever reason, being Latino means so much to each individual, I can only speak for myself why my roots are important and how they made me who I am today.
The History Behind the Title
Instantaneously after proudly stating, “I’m Latina”, a wave of history flows in… The struggles of my grandparents working several jobs to help support their children, the mix of native and Spanish roots that create the uniqueness of Hispaniola, the proud history of the isla. Being Latin is almost a badge of honor we wear proudly for our ancestors and ourselves. There is an immense amount of history from our Latin roots that can be rediscovered and enjoyed.
Culture
Being raised Latino means being raised around a strong culture. We have traditions that are passed down from generation to generation, stories and myths like the chupacabra that we tell to everyone who will listen, and not to forget the recipes that are sacred to us. We are culturally unique, we have the roots of our indigenous ancestors as well as the roots of our Spanish ancestors, allowing for a unique blend of traditions and music. Do I even need to mention the beautiful language that we learn from a young age which allows us to further connect with our family and people with similar experiences as us.
La Familia
Personally, being Hispanic means having a large, close-knit family. For Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or just Saturday dinner, being Latino means having ten plus family members and family friends over, with plates among plates of food. Rice, beans, plantains, Pernil, and pastelists line your abuelita’s kitchen. Everyone knows everyone’s business, but it's because they are either concerned or gossiping. The bonds between family members is strong and unbreakable. We always have someone to run to for advice or just to talk to.
Being Thankful for What I have
Seeing and hearing the stories and the struggles my grandparents went through to give better opportunities to not only me but their children and great-grandchildren, allow me to be extremely thankful. I’m thankful I learned how to cook Latin foods and speak Spanish. I’m thankful that I was emerged in a beautiful culture I can one day pass on to other generations. I’m extremely thankful for the stories and lessons my grandmother, “Abuelita” in Spanish, told me that has made me a better person and the memories that of going to the Latin market to help her find groceries that I will never forget. These experiences not only made me unique, they made me proud of my culture. Being Latino means I am thankful for my past and I work to better my future, just like my grandparents did for me.
