Dear John,
I remember as a kid growing up in Puerto Rico going into el monte (the woods) to gather yuca and ñame, two of the most beloved roots in Puerto Rican cuisine. Also collecting gandules verdes (green pigeon peas) in the fall for our festivities and celebrations….
My grandfather, abuelito Luis, and grandmother, abuelita Santa (yes my grandmother's name is Santa “female Saint” — and she is!) would gather the family and make pasteles, a Puerto Rican banana version of tamales that so many know from Mexico. And no gathering was ever complete without our music — from Salsa, merengue, bachata to plena, reggaeton and many parandas, our Puerto Rican version of holiday caroling. I simply can’t tell you enough how beautiful growing up in Puerto Rican culture is, and I cherish sharing these traditions with my own children today.
We also celebrate Dia de los Muertos; however, Puerto Rico has its own version with unique rituals and practices to honor our ancestors. Ancestors are not only important in my heritage, they’re important to me personally. There is not a weekend that goes by without going to church and lighting a candle for my family and saying a prayer. |
From mi familia to yours, thank you for all you do to support our campaign.
Carlos
P.S. This Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s celebrate the contributions so many have brought to our country...
And, let's ensure two years from now we’re celebrating Hispanic Heritage month with Marianne Williamson as our President! |
