I grew up in rich Mexican culture while in Chicago. My parents came to the US from Mexico and became citizens. My Dad came here to work and make a better life for our family. Reina’s family is from Puerto Rico, throughout the years I have also learned a ton of the Puerto Rican culture as well. I love their history their beautiful Island. Being a Mexican American living in the US, it is very easy to grow more accustom to the American culture and slowly begin to eliminate our ethnic one. From language to foods, celebrations to much more. Chicago is pretty well diverse when it comes to Latinos & Cultures, so was Miami. Especially within the artists communities. The Latino presence of artists is well represented in Cities like that. That is what I love about Chicago and Miami. I am hoping Nashville joins in too!
I realize I was not born in Mexico, but the culture is very important to me. It has always been a huge part of my life and my desire is that it becomes part of the lives of my children and their children The stories & journeys of my family name are some that I need to re tell to my boys. I want them to learn about the Mexican and Puerto Rican culture and history. It is who we are and we should be proud of our heritage. Our culture is not just about Mexican food or an exotic Island with lush beaches…It goes alot deeper than that.
When we first arrived to Nashville we wondered if there was a Latino presence in town. We were so used to cities like Chicago and Miami that Nashville seemed different. In a city full of artists, actors, dreamers, designers, etc… I seemed the Latino artist was not well represented. As we spent more time here we realized there is a huge Latino population in the outskirts of Nashville. I am curious to know how many amazing artists, songwriters & creatives are not stepping in and making a Latino mark in that scene. But I am also curious to know how many really are!? We’re still new in town, tell us where you are! My Dad always told me to be proud, be strong and work hard. “People like us need to work harder.” 31yrs later I get what he was saying. I am a proud Latino artist. I am not trying to belittle any other cultures, but I spoke strongly about mine. It’s where I come from. My desire is that more Latinos step up, create art and be a voice in this country. We have tons to offer! Yes it’s true, we’re different. We talk different, live different, celebrate different, eat different but it is what makes this Planet beautiful…Diversity. I’ve read so many articles about immigration policies, family’s being torn apart, racial barriers, hate groups, the list can go on… It pretty much sickens me. I wish it wasn’t like this.
We are all God’s children created in his image. We are all broken human beings walking thru this temporary planet called Earth trying to figure out this thing called life. I think we can all be honest enough with ourselves that at one point or another we’ve seen ourselves as superior to others. Whether it be based on race, social/economic status, color or culture. Am I right or wrong? You know you’ve looked at me different? Or cracked a Mexican joke. Right? Or laugh at the fact that Reina and I add an “s” to every Super Market name! (Krogers) LOL!
There is so much we as merely humans can learn from each other!
What are your thoughts about the Representation of Latino Artists in your Community?
-fuser+
“Donde estan los creativos y artistas en Nashville!?”
You are the fuel that keeps me going. I wouldn’t have it any other way…
I’ve been knocking on the wrong doors and hitting up the wrong crowd… As long as you do the work of creating, sometimes you just gotta let God orchestrate your steps and the people that are meant to be part of your journey. It really works out better that way. I am learning that as I go. I am so glad to be lost in the city of Nashville! I love this town.