Embracing the Latina inside

I don't like to think of myself as anything other than me.

I don't like labels, so people defining me only by my Hispanic heritage annoy me. Who likes stereotypes anyway?

I love my culture; it's rich in history and has many beautiful aspects. It's part of me and fills me with many great memories, but I don't normally discuss it unless someone else asks. I definitely don't shout it out, and it's not because I'm not proud of who I am. I am.

I've mentioned my Mexican heritage to my kids. I want them to feel proud, especially when there is so much negative sentiment about Hispanics in the news, particularly revolving around immigration. I remember living in the Midwest back in elementary school and being called a "wet back" only because someone learned of my Mexican heritage. My parents were citizens. Hello! It was confusing and hurtful to hear this. I had a long conversation with my parents about stereotypes, racist attitudes and tolerance.

On their dad's side, my kids are a blend of English, German and French. But no one seems to focus on that side.

I don't want anyone making them feel bad about their Hispanic heritage, so I talk up the positives. But we talk about the positives of a lot of different cultures. We all need to be tolerant of our differences. Embrace diversity is a motto of ours. You might learn something.

So I try to share stories about their grandparents and some Hispanic traditions. I want to help them see the beauty of their culture. I've also pointed out that Latinos do great things and can be quite successful. I note politicians, celebs, sports figures and everyday people who are making an impact in their circles. I want them to feel that their heritage isn't an excuse for not finding a path to success.

I've not, however, said that because my kids are partly Hispanic that they must pick up Spanish or traditions. That's really up to them. I'm just sharing what I like about my heritage with them.

So I'm nicely surprised by my daughter wanting to learn to speak Spanish, as well as learn about traditions. My son isn't crazy about learning any language. He'll need to, though, as most colleges seem to require a second language. I've told him Spanish or Mandarin would be great. I think he's leaning toward Spanish so I can help him practice. :)

Some Hispanic friends have asked why I don't make Spanish part of our household. It's the whole "be proud/don't lose your culture" message. I've not forced my kids to speak Spanish because my parents didn't of me. Well, they did tell me I had to take Spanish before French. Spanish made learning French easy.

I learned Spanish because I wanted to learn. Now I want to learn the tradition of making tamales on my own. That's a whole other blog. :) I embrace my heritage because I want to and not because I'm forced to please anyone.

And that's what I hope for my kids.

Cheers!