Embracing My Chicana Identity: A Journey from New Mexico to California
Growing up in New Mexico as a 12th-generation Chicana was a unique experience that shaped my identity and determination to celebrate and share my heritage, especially during Latiné Heritage Month.
My story begins with young parents, who, like many others in their generation, didn’t speak Spanish. This wasn’t because they didn’t want to, but rather due to the discrimination they faced in schools. This language barrier was just one of the many complexities that defined my upbringing.
The first challenge we encountered was the terminology used to describe our heritage. Some referred to us as “Spanish," others as “Chicanos," and simply as “Mexicans." This diversity in labels often left me feeling confused about my own identity.
Was I Spanish, Chicana, or Mexican? It was a question that lingered throughout my formative years.
Despite the confusion, one thing remained clear: I was proud of my Chicana heritage. I may not have spoken fluent Spanish, but my roots ran deep in the culture, traditions, and values that define the Chicano identity. I grew up with a strong work ethic and determination towards higher education.
My journey continued when my family moved to Colorado, where I encountered a different set of challenges. I soon realized that my story was not unique. Many Chicanos faced similar struggles and questions about their identity. It was challenging to experience discrimination for the first time. We were not minorities in New Mexico but were identified as such when living in Colorado. The lack of diversity and racism I experienced growing up in a small mountain community led to believing I had to hide my culture to be accepted.
In the early 2000s, life took me to California, where I learned a new term that resonated deeply with me: “Latina." It was during my time working for the Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture (CESLAC) at UCLA that I truly began to understand the power of this term. We dedicated our work and advocacy to helping immigrant students gain entry into advanced degree programs in medicine, with the goal of serving Spanish-speaking communities and providing culturally informed care for Latino populations.
In the words of Cheech Marin, a prominent advocate for Chicano culture, “We’re not ‘Spanish.’ We’re not ‘Mexican.’ We’re Chicanos, and proud of it!" Marin’s words resonate deeply with me, as they capture the essence of our unique identity – a blend of history, culture, and resilience.
Latiné Heritage Month is a time when I can proudly celebrate my Chicana and Latina identity, and share my story with others. It’s a time to educate those who may not fully understand the rich tapestry of Latiné cultures that make up the United States.
In the end, my journey as a Chicana, born in New Mexico, raised in Colorado, and shaped in California, has been one of self-discovery, determination, and pride. I’ve learned that my identity is not defined by labels, but by the love I have for my culture and the commitment to preserving it for future generations.
As we celebrate Latiné Heritage Month, I encourage everyone to explore their heritage, embrace their roots, and share their unique stories. It’s through these stories that we can truly appreciate the richness and diversity of our Chicano heritage in the United States, and work towards a future where all voices are heard and celebrated.
