The American Lifestyle’s Impact on Identity: A Balancing Act of Confusing Views

Growing up in a Mexican-American household, Emily Barrera found herself straddling two worlds – one of American culture and the other of Mexican heritage. Despite her physical traits and fluency in Spanish, Emily often felt like an imposter in her own culture.

Raised in a Westernized environment by her California-born mother, Emily’s upbringing included Americanized activities like competitive dance, which her family struggled to fully understand and appreciate. While her cousin excelled in traditional folklorico dance, Emily’s choice to pursue commercial dance left her feeling disconnected from her family’s roots.

In an effort to bridge the gap and connect with her Mexican heritage, Emily asked her aunt to make her a folklorico skirt and began learning basic steps. However, the differences in lifestyle, experiences, and preferences between Emily and her family members continued to highlight her sense of disconnect.

Even in her food preferences, Emily found herself at odds with her family, often opting for American dishes over traditional Mexican meals. This choice led to comments and teasing from her sister, who playfully questioned Emily’s “Mexicaness” based on her food choices, fashion sense, and music preferences.

Despite these challenges, Emily recognizes the sacrifices her family made to provide her with a better life in the United States. While she may not fully align with her family’s struggles and experiences, Emily is learning to embrace her American life while also seeking to understand and appreciate her Mexican heritage.

As she navigates her dual identity, Emily acknowledges the importance of being proud of her American life while also making an effort to learn more about her Mexican roots. Whether through conversations with family members or personal research, Emily is committed to honoring her heritage while embracing the unique blend of cultures that make up her identity.

In the end, Emily’s story serves as a reminder that cultural identity is complex and multifaceted. While she may not fit neatly into traditional expectations of what it means to be Mexican, Emily’s experiences and journey towards self-acceptance highlight the richness and diversity of the Mexican-American experience.