Hispanic Culture

Hispanic Culture

by Mia Carrero

Hispanic is a term created to identify people who speak Spanish, which excludes Brazil where citizens speak Portuguese. Latino/a is a term also created to identify people with Latin American descent, that includes all Latin American countries and excludes Spain. I personally identify as Latina, since I am both Puerto Rican and Colombian, and have no ties to Spain. As well, most of my family members prefer the term Latino/a instead of Hispanic. Even though Hispanics/Latinos/as are one of the largest minority group in the United States, we are the most underrepresented in film, politics, and are said to be less likely to be called back for a job interview. Mid-September and mid-October is Hispanic-Latino heritage month. During the month of September there are many festivals celebrating the Hispanic-Latino culture. Hispanic-Latino Culture is widely known for their food and music. During Hispanic-Latino Heritage month there are multiple festivals throughout Philadelphia to represent the different Latino and Hispanic lifestyles. On September 30, 2018, the annual Puerto Rican Day Parade was celebrated with the theme “Renacer de Puerto Rico”, which means “The Rebirth Of Puerto Rico”. This theme was used to commemorate the tragedy that struck the Island of Puerto Rico, on September 16, 2017 in the form of Hurricane Maria. Following the Puerto Rican Day Parade, in North Philadelphia, most Puerto Ricans congregate to the area of American and Lehigh Avenue for more festivities. Annually Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez holds her annual “Boricua Fest” and State Representative Angel Cruz has his annual “El Coqui Festival”. These festivals bring in musical artists from Puerto Rico and the surrounding communities, to perform and celebrate their culture.

Works Cited

WomenHeart. “Four Fun Activities For Kids to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.” National Hispanic Heritage Month, hispanicheritagemonth.org/hispanic-culture/39-four-fun-activities-for-kids-to-celebrate-hispanic-heritage-month.