What I love about being Latina: I love having curves and being proud of them!!!
What I love about being Americana: I love being able to have a Spanglish conversation with any of my friends and family and have them understand every word I say….while others may try to figure out what in the world we are laughing about. “Pero mi’ja, why is it que tu no cojes el telefono”.
My biggest challenge in growing up Latina in America: This doesn’t seem like much of a challenge but it’s something I have had to deal with my whole life and will continue to: my name. People never know how to pronounce it. Everyone always thinks its AmaNda..with an N but its Amada. I remember being young and hating my name because it was soo difficult for everyone. As I grew up, I got over it. I remember being young and on the first day of class the teacher would do roll call for the first time, and they would say “AMANDA”. By the time I was in the third grade, my fellow classmates were correcting my teachers for me. I no longer had to say a word, my classmates would say “Its AMADA not AMANDA”. I LOVE MY NAME!!!!
My biggest support in growing up Latina in America: My biggest support has been my mother. At times when I think I am unable to accomplish a goal or if I am scared to take a leap I think of my mother. She came to this country only knowing the words Good Morning and Thank You. If she was able to take that leap, then I have the power in me to do the same. Thank you, Mama!!!Why I am beautiful: I am beautiful because I have curly brown hair that I can make straight at a moment’s notice, a boisterous laugh and tremendous love for my family and culture!
All I have to say is AMADA…that’s my cousin…beautiful she is indeed another reason to be truly happy to be Latina but more important truly BLESSED to be her cousin and her friend…Beautifully said cuz! Y TU?
Aww que linda! Your mother is very proud of the independent , intelligent and beautiful latina woman you have become. We are all very proud of you!!!
This a great article by none other than a great lady. It accomplishes itself in providing a sense of understanding in what is inherent in all latinos, our culture. Amada, what a great name.
HAHA lovin’ the quote! Querida Amada…I would think of no other Latina who can represent us like you can. You’re truly an inspiration and a role model to me as well as others. Love ya! =)
Amada is a beautiful name and I can understand your frustration at having it mispronounced. I mean people called me MELA-GROSS! I mean really! Now I’m so proud of being Milagros…it makes me well ME!
Amada, well suited name for a very strong independent woman. I am proud to call you my big sis. You the picture perfect latina, standing tall and taking over the world. Your brother and I are very proud of you. Sigue pa’ lanate!
Hi Amada, so happy to know that I am not the only one who has to correct everyone who calls me amaNda. I got so frustrated growing up in upstate NY (1960’s and 70’s) that I told people my name was Lucy. When I was 19 yrs old I joined the coast guard and was stationed in puerto Rico. I quickly dropped the name Lucy and began using my real middle name Lucia. I never met anyone by name Amada in Mexico or Puerto Rico. I am Mexican married to a German and proud to be named Amada Lucia Hensel.