Through the Eyes of Another; My Perspective Being From A Different Culture

I am a Latin American woman who has been discriminated against, constantly criticized and severely bullied in this country because of my ethnicity. Growing up in a predominantly Caucasian school district, surrounded by children with preconceived misconceptions was like being thrown into a pack of hungry wolves. Each day I was reminded how I am not like the other children and was seen as less than. Throughout my day my peers would call me “illegal” or “dirty Mexican,” would throw things at me and call me derogatory names. The teachers allowed this mistreatment to occur and a substitute welcomed it. Each day was a new day for oppression and abuse if you just so happened to be a person of the salad bowl.

My experience was painful but what I learned was empowering. Being of another culture has given me the understanding that every culture is beautiful and has a valuable perspective to bring to the table. Latins and all other ethnicities enhance the American culture and it is a gift to have immigrants because they positively impact the community. I understand the goal should not be to force assimilation but educate others to stand up and embrace who they are as a people. I see that everyone’s voice counts. It is not about erasing who they are because they are Americans now, but encouraging each culture to feel pride.

I wanted to feel like I belonged. I wanted to be accepted. I wanted to be celebrated for being me. I now want all of this for my all of students. I want all of them, no matter what race to know their voice matters. I work consistently to build a loving environment in my classroom that celebrates each child’s beautiful diversity. Because of this mentality, I have been able to connect with children in classrooms around the world. From the lens of a Nicaraguan and from the heart of a human, I believe in the power of culture.