YouAlberta
In Canada, we celebrate the Latin American Heritage Month every October. But what does Latino/a heritage mean?
The short answer is that there are as many Latin heritage interpretations and manifestations as there are Latin American people. Although the region of Latin America shares a colonial history, language and cultural affinity, each country has a unique history and culture that enhances the vibrant Latin American community.
To me, my Latin American heritage signifies the communities I am part of and the cultural and interpersonal connections that make me feel at home, even when I am (physically) away from home. Since I moved to Canada, I am often asked if I miss home. Although I value the new experiences and learning while abroad, for me, there is no place like my home in Mexico. But being away from home has allowed me to treasure my Mexican culture and Latin American heritage, enabling me to appreciate the similarities and singularities between the diverse traditions characteristic of different parts of Latin America.
I consider it important to practice my traditions and share my heritage while being away from home. One way I do this while on campus is by going to the events hosted by the Latin American Student’s Association, where I learn about the practices and customs of different cultures and meet students from various parts of Latin America.
Another way I celebrate my heritage with others is by preparing and sharing my favourite Mexican dishes. One of my preferred meals to cook is green enchiladas and pozole – I like to make them extra spicy! I find music and dance to be enjoyable forms to learn from different traditions and creatively express our cultural identity. My music recommendation includes the genres of 90s rock in Spanish, Latin pop and “rancheras.” When I’m walking on campus between classes, I like to listen to music in Spanish, and imagine what song would best fit the campus scenery of that day.
Every Latin American Heritage Month, I take the opportunity to reflect on my traditions and consider how my cultural sense of belonging influences how I understand and relate to those around me. I have learned that the uniqueness of each culture helps establish our collective sense of community.
I interviewed Mario, a fourth-year international student majoring in economics, who shared what his Latin American heritage means to him.
Mario
Where are you from, and what is this place known for?
I am from Guatemala, a country renowned for its strong Indigenous heritage, coffee and landscapes.
Guatemala is known as the heart of the Mayan world with its heritage present across the country: in the food, the Spanish vocabulary and the Mayan pyramids in Petén.
Guatemala is also famous for its beautiful landscapes. We have 36 volcanoes, some of which are active and can be hiked! Many volcanoes are visible from the cities, including Antigua Guatemala —a beautiful colonial city known for its historic architecture and picturesque streets. Lake Atitlán is another must-see sight in Guatemala. It is surrounded by three volcanoes and is the deepest lake in Central America.
Guatemala is also known for its coffee, which has won numerous international awards. I would even dare to say that it is the best coffee in the world, although that might lead to some lengthy conversations with my Latin American friends!
Fun fact: the jungle base in Star Wars: A New Hope was shot in Guatemala.
What does your heritage mean to you?
Although I have mostly lived outside of Guatemala, my heritage means a lot to me and is a big part of who I am. I feel the responsibility, as someone who has mostly lived outside their country, to learn and research as much as I can about my heritage. This has led me to learn more about famous Guatemalan people, our history, food and artworks. Everywhere I go, I am proud to say that I am from Guatemala, and I am happy to share more about my heritage with anyone who is interested!
What is your favourite cultural artwork?
My favourite cultural work from Guatemala is the book El Señor Presidente (The President) by Guatemalan Nobel Prize winner Miguel Ángel Asturias. This novel tells the story of a dictator and narrates how his tyrannical government affects the lives of ordinary citizens. The story is based on the Guatemalan president Manuel Estrada, who ruled from 1898 to 1920. This book contains a variety of subplots, including romance stories and tales about key figures who were close to the dictator. El Señor Presidente is truly one of the most iconic novels to come out of Central America.