Being A Mexican American Essay

Have I forgotten who I am? For much of my life, the answer was yes. I am Mexican American; however, for a while, I forgot the Mexican part came first… actually, I forgot it was there at all. Growing up I never took an interest in learning about my culture, nor did I willingly take part in any events relating to it; however, I do not completely blame this on myself. My mother played a significant role in this. She was a second-generation Mexican American, therefore typical Mexican traditions were not implemented in her life as strongly as others. Instead, she enjoyed a more Americanized, city lifestyle, not surprising considering she grew up in New York City. This inevitably transferred onto my siblings and myself, only to a greater extent.

Life at school was also a struggle, I did not interact with the other students there because I felt excluded and uncomfortable when they would have conversations in Spanish; I was afraid of being made fun of for being a Mexican unable to speak Spanish fluently. Wherever I was I felt as if I never truly fit in with the friend groups I had. It was either I was not a part of the culture of everyone else, or I did not know enough about mine to feel comfortable and accepted. I felt stuck and these factors derived me of caring to reconnect with my Mexican

I’ve now realized having a close bond with your family is a significant feature of Hispanic culture and now enjoy attending family events. I often find myself asking my mother, “Hey who’s birthday is next?” in hopes there will be some form of celebration. I was stoked when asked to take part in another Quinceañera for another one of my cousin’s and gladly accepted the offer without hesitation. I had just as much fun as the first. I am also in a club for my school titled the Latino Student Union which gave me the opportunity to volunteer in a Hispanic heritage event that took place in my