The Latina Identity

Identity is a complicated concept, especially when you are in a country where you are part of a minority group. It gets even more confusing when you’re in an area like Eastern Washington where there is a Latina/o community but it’s different to those in other places like California. If you’re a Latina living in Eastern Washington and wondering about your identity, this post is for you!

What is Identity?

Not a straight-forward answer for this one. Identity is who you are. It includes things about you like your background, experiences, values, relationships, choices, likes, and personality. Every person has their own identity even when you feel like yours is similar to other people you know. But let’s dive into a more specific convo about identity when it comes to Latinas

The Latina Identity

When we talk about Latinas, our identity can consist of our heritage, culture, nationality, and what we like, dislike, and feel passionate about. It would be a mistake to assume that all Latinas are the same just because of our heritage: having roots in Latin America. Being Latina doesn’t mean you have to be an advocate for the community, dress a certain way, or be bilingual in Spanish. If your identity is not the same as your sisters, that’s more than okay!

What Makes us Unique

Not even all the females in Mexico are the same. Some of us grew up in small towns, others in the city, and some others in various places. All this is part of your identity; your background and experiences. Even when they’ve grouped us as one, we have many differences. As a native Mexican, I have found to have more in common with some US-born Latinas than those born in places like Argentina or Chile.

However, the Latina identity is shaped by a unique blend of culture, history, and experiences. It encompasses a wide range of ethnicities, nationalities, and backgrounds, each contributing to the vibrant and diverse Latina community.

Latina vs Hispanic

I had never heard the terms “Hispana/o” or “Hispanic” until I came to the US. I’m guessing the term would be somewhat irrelevant when you live in a Latin American country. And that’s the reason I personally don’t self-identify as Hispana. Nothing wrong if you do, though. The term “Hispanic” was partly introduced in the US thanks to the work of the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), which is a Chicano organization. Makes sense, right? Hispanic is a word used in the US more often than in Latin American countries.

Latina or Latino comes from our history and the people who came to colonize the different countries in our continent. In their majority countries that taught us romance languages deriving from Latin. I identify more with Latina than Hispana because I’ve heard of our territory being referred to more as Latin America than “Spanish speaking countries.” How you identify is influenced by where you grew up, what you heard during those years, and your experiences related to ethnic identity.

Roots and Heritage

At the core of the Latina identity lie deep roots and connections to Latin American countries. From Mexico to Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic to Colombia, each nation carries its own distinct traditions, languages, and customs. Being from Mexico, I notice significant differences in our foods, customs, and ways of life from state to state. The Latina identity embraces this diversity, fostering a sense of unity while celebrating the unique cultural heritage of each individual.

Language

Language plays a significant role in shaping the Latina identity. Spanish, the common thread among many Latina cultures, unites generations, preserves traditions, and serves as a symbol of unity. However, Latina identity is not limited to language alone. Many Latinas are bilingual or multilingual, incorporating English or other languages into their repertoire, further enriching their identity and enhancing their ability to connect with diverse communities.

There’s a long history of shaming or rejecting Latinas who don’t speak Spanish or are not fluent in the language. In my opinion, there’s more to being Latina than just language. There are many factors affecting someone’s ability to speak a language. Back in the 70’s and 80’s when some of our parents were going to school here in the US it was not acceptable to speak Spanish in school and they were even punished for speaking it. For this reason, many people didn’t teach Spanish to their kids, as they didn’t want their children to suffer in school or be ostracized.

Family and Community

The Latina identity places immense value on family and community. Strong familial ties and a nurturing network of relatives and friends provide a foundation of support, love, and guidance. The concept of “familia” extends beyond blood relations, emphasizing the importance of community, solidarity, and mutual support. Latinas are known for their strong bonds, creating supportive environments where everyone is uplifted and empowered.

I didn’t understand why they said Latina/os placed such big emphasis on family. That was until I realized other cultures don’t do the same. It was normal for me to see my grandparents every day and consider how my decisions were going to affect my family, not just me. When I came to the US, I realized other cultural groups often live states away from family and don’t have the same bond and close relationships we, as Latinas/os, do.

There was a time I thought it was wrong to do so. You know, the process of assimilation and acculturation. But with time, I was able to incorporate my Latina values into my life as a person living in the States.

Feminism

Feminism definitely intersects with the Latina identity, highlighting the unique challenges and struggles faced by Latinas. The experience of navigating both gender inequality and racial discrimination contributes to a growing movement that calls for empowerment, inclusion, and equal opportunities for Latina women. I think this intersectionality strengthens the Latina identity, fostering a sense of resilience and determination to overcome barriers and reshape societal narratives.

A very important aspect of the Latina identity, in my opinion. There are so many unjust practices in our culture that have been exercised for many many years and, thus, normalized. But we are now realizing how damaging those practices and ideas are to Latinas. I hear stories about how my grandma endured the machista behaviors of my grandpa and some unequal habits in my parent’s marriage and notice how much things have changed. But there’s still so much to get done.

Cultural Contributions

Latinas have made significant contributions to art, music, literature, and cuisine. The vibrant colors of the Latina artwork, the rhythm of salsa and merengue, the enchanting words of Latin American literature, and the mouthwatering flavors of Latin cuisine. These are just a few examples of the cultural richness that the Latina identity brings to the world. Such contributions serve as a source of pride and celebration. Bridging gaps between cultures and promoting a greater understanding of the Latina experience.

Food is definitely an important aspect of the Latina identity. Through food, we revive our ancestors. Also continue to remember where we come from; traditions that are passed on from generation to generation. Take Día de los Muertos for instance. One of the important items to include in your altar is the food that our deceased loved one liked.

Last thoughts…

The Latina identity is a beautiful mosaic of diverse cultures, languages, and experiences. It is a testament to the strength, resilience, and unwavering determination of Latinas around the world. However, we must remember that not every Latina’s identity will be the same. We are all different. By honoring and celebrating the uniqueness of each individual’s journey, we can foster a more inclusive society that recognizes the invaluable contributions of Latinas in shaping our shared future. Let’s embrace the Latina identity and continue to amplify the voices and accomplishments of these incredible women!

If you’re interested in reading more about what it is like to be a Latina living in Eastern Washington, I invite you to go here