Orgullosamente Latinx

Students speak about their cultural pride

Sarah Fahey / Asst. A&C Editor / The USD Vista

Latinx Heritage Month, celebrated each year from mid-September to mid-October, is a commemoration of the unique culture, identities and contributions of Latinx-Americans in the U.S. This month is packed full of pride and celebration for being unapologetically Latinx.

Though the month is popularly known as “Hispanic Heritage Month,” many prefer to use “Latinx” because “Hispanic” refers to Spanish-speakers only and excludes countries where Spanish is not the primary language, such as Brazil. This is problematic because of Brazil’s sizable influence, and “Latinx” refers to all of Latin America.

In a capitalist society built on appropriation and profit, it is difficult for many minorities to honor their cultures authentically, such as the popularized and commercialized Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo was a battle won by Mexico against the French, but it is used primarily by Americans as an excuse to party. 

USD sophomore Jonnie Robles appreciates the whole heritage month to recognize her identity.

“This month is a time for a lot of Latinos to feel represented, without it being an Americanized holiday where the true significance of it is overshadowed by commercialization and capitalism,” Robles said.

For many, this month is a time to celebrate Latinx culture and reflect on why they are proud of their individual identities. USD senior Alessandra Olmedo Robles shares why she is passionate about her Latina heritage. 

“I’m really grateful for my identity,” she said. “It’s not only humbled me, but I feel like it’s my superpower. I don’t really fit in a box anymore.”

This month offers a chance for Latinos to stray away from those stereotypes and define their own identities on their own terms. Olmedo hints at the stereotypes that Latinos face, due to exaggerated and problematic portrayals in the media. 

“I don’t have the stereotypical curvy body, with a heavy accent and honey skin, like Sofia Vergara in ‘Modern Family,’” Olmedo said. “I feel like I’m expected to be like these sexualized portrayals when we’re not that, we’re not going to be that and we’re not going to try to be that.”

One of the most well-known aspects of Latinx culture is the food. With various colorful and flavorful dishes like empanadas and tamales, food and cooking are ways to connect with others in the Latino culture.

USD senior Carmen Gomez shares her love for the way food connects people together.

“I’ve seen how food brings people together,” Gomez said. “There is something heartwarming about coming together at the table to share a meal that creates the most special memories.”

Gomez is not the only person who finds a sense of community and comfort in sharing food with others. Olmedo also finds good memories come with cooking.

“My mom taught me how to cook and I always think about her when I do,” Olmedo said. “The memories that making food from my culture brings is why I love cooking.”

Cooking reminds many Latinos of the love for their families and their loved ones around them. From making simple staples like tortillas a mano to cultural dishes like empanadas that are tied to good memories of community and belonging, food is a crucial part of Latinx culture and tradition.

The roots of the Latinx culture is very important in many identities, with much more to be celebrated besides food. From dance to language and family, the Latinx culture is a warm, tightly knit community that contains so much beauty and comfort. With such vast diversity and subjectivity, there is much to be honored during Latinx Heritage Month.