Latinos Enhance American Culture

We’re a nation of immigrants where each ethnic group adds color and interest to the American tapestry. Latinos, the largest and fastest growing minority in America, have influenced and enhanced our culture in so many ways.

• Their strong connection to family. Anglo-Americans value family too, of course, but we’re not as connected to our extended families as we used to be. I’ve seen Latinos go out of their way to help and support their brothers and sisters, parents and grandparents, even at great personal sacrifice.
• Their generosity of spirit. If you’re looking for a job, they’ll call you if they hear of anything. If you’re sick, they’ll bring food. If you need help with your Spanish, they’ll give up work time to help you practice. We’ve all heard the anti-immigration rhetoric; that “these people” want to take our jobs or take advantage of our social programs. I have witnessed just the opposite: that Latinos are “givers”.
• An amazing work ethic. Everyday I see Latinos working, and working hard, often at jobs that I wouldn’t do if you paid me 3 times the wages. I know that some of them don’t have much of a choice, if their English isn’t very good yet or if they don’t have a green card. I do hope – perhaps naively – that they’re being paid fairly and treated with respect by the Americans they meet, so that they can work toward the job of their dreams.
• Dance. What would the world of dance be without the Latin moves of the cha cha, merengue, tango and salsa? Elegant maybe, but not nearly as sexy! The fans of Dancing with the Stars would be pretty disappointed if they didn’t get to see the Latin dances, not to mention the Latino dancers! Mario Lopez: call me!
• La musica! A day without Latin music is like a day without sunshine. Luckily, there’s plenty of both in America! Its easy to find Latin music on the radio and TV (love that MTV en español!) and in the local record stores. From well-known crossover artists like Ricky Martin and Shakira, to heartthrobs Juanes and Chayanne, Reggaeton mega-star Daddy Yankee and Texican rockers Los Lonely Boys, there’s something for everyone. I love them all: Obie Bermudez, Paulina Rubio, Carlos Vives, Marc Anthony, Calle 13, Maná, La Secta…I could go on and on! Nowhere is the Latino Explosion more evident than in the world of music.
• The food. Americans eat so much Mexican (and Mexican inspired) food that it seems almost the national cuisine. And since the Mexicans were here before we were, it kind of is! But there’s more to South-of-the-border cooking than tacos and burritos. Thanks to the growing immigrant population we can now enjoy many versions of arros con pollo (chicken and rice), platanos fritos (fried plantains), and ceviche (a cold, marinated seafood dish), to name a few. Latin American food is always fresh, flavorful and meticulously prepared. Favorite recipes coming to the site soon!
• The feminine beauty. I love the Latina look: curves and cleavage; sexy and glam. These mamis know what bonita means and they wear their beauty with confidence and class. I’m such a wannabee! I’ve got the curves and cleavage, but would one of you please help me learn to put on eyeliner?
• Español. The language is beautiful, fun to learn and you don’t need a passport to get a chance to use it! It’s about time our country became bilingual, don’tcha think?