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What Traditions Keep You Connected to Your Culture?
This month’s Group Chat = all about Hispanic Heritage Month. We asked what traditions make you feel closest to your culture, and the answers poured in. From family recipes to celebrations that bring everyone together, here’s what you shared.
“For me, being Latina is not only about food or holidays. It’s about the laughs and the connection you feel with someone you just met, the warmth of our hugs, and the way friends can become a new family. It means embracing your roots and seeking opportunities to make a change and inspire young girls”
"My favorite tradition that my family has is playing Carioca when we’re all together. It’s a Chilean card game that we’ve been playing for years. Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or anniversary the cards will always come out. We have so many inside jokes and laughs whenever we play and I cherish those memories so much."
“Celebrating El Día de Todos los Santos. In Guatemala, this day is not only about remembering those who have gone before us, but about honoring the beautiful lives they lived and the love they left behind. We visit cemeteries adorned with flowers, share Fiambre with our families, and gather to tell stories—laughing, crying, and keeping their spirits alive in our hearts.
Each memory we share is a way of thanking them for the lessons they taught us, the values they passed down, and the quiet guidance they continue to give. At the same time, this celebration reminds us to cherish the life we have now and the people who walk beside us, to embrace them fully while we can. In Guatemalan culture, our ancestors walk with us always, whispering wisdom into our choices and surrounding us with their presence, teaching us not only to honor them but also to treasure every moment with those we love."
“Making tamales during Christmas with my family. We make everything from scratch, and everyone comes together to help. My favorite part is helping my grandma spread the masa on the corn husks. Once they’re all steamed, we sit down to eat them as a family.
Another tradition I love is Las Posadas. For nine nights leading up to Christmas, all of my family, friends, and neighbors gather to reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey, sing carols, and pray. Each night ends with festivities like breaking piñatas, eating delicious food, and playing games. These traditions remind me how special it is to celebrate our culture surrounded by loved ones.”
“Eating arepas for breakfast almost every day. I also love tequeños and other Venezuelan snacks. At Christmas, my family always makes hallacas, which is such a special tradition for us. Those foods remind me of my roots and bring me closer to my culture."
