Hispanic Heritage Month always stirs a mix of emotions for me. As a first-generation American with a father from Barcelona and a mother from Mexico City, I've been immersed in a rich cultural tapestry that is both vibrant and intricate.
Growing up bilingual, I learned Spanish as my first language and always identified deeply with my Latina heritage. Despite embracing many stereotypes associated with my background, I've also faced numerous misconceptions that can be frustrating.
Here's a more intimate look into the realities that often accompany Hispanic Heritage Month, from stereotypes to societal expectations:
1. Whitewashed: I'm often pegged as 'whitewashed', a term that feels both misleading and loaded. I hear things like, "You don't even have an accent when you speak!"—as if speaking fluent English somehow erases my Latina identity. Weird, huh? I can be both Latina
and speak English without an accent. I can be well-educated
and still blast Celia Cruz bangers in my car. There's this narrow, preconceived notion of what it means to be Hispanic, and if I don't fit that stereotype, suddenly I'm deemed "white." Honestly, it's not just frustrating—it's rude 😬. Even if it's said with good intentions, it comes across as ignorant and flattens the richness and complexity of Hispanic identity.
2. Ethnic and National Identity: Spaniards are often considered 'white' by American standards, which oversimplifies the rich diversity of Spain and its history. Being Spanish and Mexican places me in a unique cultural crossfire. My dad's people
probably conquered and took my mom's people and land back in history. I'm aware of that whole weird dynamic. But it's also equally insulting to diminish my Spanish heritage simply because I'm also Mexican. I frequently have to remind ignorant people, "No, it's not the same. THERE'S A WHOLE OCEAN in between the two countries." Both cultures are rich and diverse, yet they have distinct histories, languages, and traditions. It's disheartening to see people conflate the two, often unaware of the vast differences between them.
3. Colorism: Racism and bias are not just an American problem.
Colorism exists within many Hispanic communities, where darker skin is often less valued. This bias transcends borders, affecting many with roots in Latin America, Spain, and beyond. It's something I think
younger generations are working on, and educating their elders to be better about.
4. Cultural Appropriation: Personally, I'm not
offended when people celebrate Cinco De Mayo with sombreros and ponchos, and tacos and margaritas. It's part of the culture! I love seeing people captivated by the fun spirit and nature of Mexican people. However, when it comes to acknowledging immigrant contributions, speaking about Latino culture with respect, and voting in favor of
legislation to support the community—they forget all about it. It's not cool to pick and choose when you want to "like" Mexican or Latino people.
5. Navigating dual expectations: It's not easy to juggle expectations of my Hispanic and American identities; it's a balancing act. Especially being
the eldest daughter, it involves managing familial expectations—like
translating for parents or handling more responsibilities at home—and fitting into the broader American culture. There's an entire generation of "
no sabo kids",
influencers and
celebrities encountering this too. This intersection can feel isolating, as
we're not quite enough for either side.
Hispanic Heritage Month should go beyond surface-level celebrations. It's a time for reflection and dialogue about the complexities of Hispanic identities and experiences—past and present. Instead of just celebrating, let's critically examine what it means to be Hispanic today, and actively support Latino communities by appreciating the rich diversity that defines Hispanic culture.
Thania (TA Content Mgr.)
Joanna (TA Co-Founder)
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