Multi-Cultural Upbringing Makes Me Orgullosa

I am 100% Hispanic, born to two Cuban immigrants. I am married to a predominantly Italian-American, who carries an Irish last name. He is 2nd generation Italian through one grandparent, and 3rd generation through two other grandparents. Both our families maintained cultural traditions as we were raised. We ate customary foods, sang traditional songs and celebrated holidays in culturally traditional ways.

Now it’s our turn to continue this respect and honor of culture. I want my children to have the same cultural experiences that my husband & I each had. Honoring Cuban, Italian, a little Irish and American traditions is an important message we need to share.

As a Latina mom, I want them to think of pork, black beans & rice when they celebrate Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) and know to have 12 grapes ready to eat at the strike of midnight on New Year’s. I want them to know their feast day, and I want to remember to congratulate them on that day. I want them to enjoy pastelitos, croquetas and know how to dip their tostada in their cafe con leche. I want them to know the songs of “Esta nina linda…” and “El patio de me casa.” I want them to be orgullosa/proud of their heritage. I need to make the connections to their latin side through every aspect of their upbringing, just like my parents did for me.

The Orgullosa.com community is a great resource for latina moms. The site is filled with connections of heritage and passion for all things latin. Common interests of the latin home, the culture and the beauty are threaded in fantastic articles. You realize that the strength of the latina is astonishing. They are passionate women who love their families. I am orgullosa to be one of them and more orgullosa for my daughter’s latin side.

The Italian culture is equally respected and practiced in this home. I’ve learned to make meatballs, sauce and understand the importance of a tremendous amount of fish to be eaten of Christmas Eve. I make traditional Italian desserts during the holiday season, and know what actually comes in an anti-pasta.

I welcome you, latina or not, to visit the new Orgullosa.com and sign-up. Consider yourself, your family and your love of culture. How do you want to honor and integrate the passion of the latin woman in your home.?

Disclosure: I received compensation for participating in a SocialMoms and Orgullosa blogging program. The opinions and ideas expressed here are my own.