Daisy Aleman / Mexico
As a 1st generation Mexican American and 2nd in the my family to obtain a Bachelors and Masters Degree I can't emphasize enough how there is nothing more powerful than an educated woman. In my opinion, it is important that women, especially Latin women, strive to educate ourselves as much as possible. Taking advantage of every opportunity we have available and breaking the barriers and stereotypes out there.
Growing up I attended an Elementary school where they taught in both English and Spanish. However, Spanish was the primary language. When I was 8 years old we moved to Simi Valley, biggest shock of my life. I will never forget my 1st day of 3rd grade, new school, new teachers, no friends and most importantly new "language" (English). All of 3rd grade I struggled and I will never forget the feeling of being alone and having no clue how to express myself.I had other Spanish speaking classmates yet it seemed like they were ashamed to even speak the language so I often found myself being alone and thinking I will not be like "them". I learned to be proud of my culture and primary language (Spanish). Needless to say, I mastered the English language pretty quickly.
I'm now 29 years old and a mother of two beautiful girls that will grow up being proud of being half Mexican and half Nicaraguan. My goal as their mom will be to teach them to speak Spanish, teach them the value of being bilingual, remind them of our culture, customs, and values. I hope to set the example of being a strong and independent Latina just as my mother has done for me.
Growing up I attended an Elementary school where they taught in both English and Spanish. However, Spanish was the primary language. When I was 8 years old we moved to Simi Valley, biggest shock of my life. I will never forget my 1st day of 3rd grade, new school, new teachers, no friends and most importantly new "language" (English). All of 3rd grade I struggled and I will never forget the feeling of being alone and having no clue how to express myself.I had other Spanish speaking classmates yet it seemed like they were ashamed to even speak the language so I often found myself being alone and thinking I will not be like "them". I learned to be proud of my culture and primary language (Spanish). Needless to say, I mastered the English language pretty quickly.
I'm now 29 years old and a mother of two beautiful girls that will grow up being proud of being half Mexican and half Nicaraguan. My goal as their mom will be to teach them to speak Spanish, teach them the value of being bilingual, remind them of our culture, customs, and values. I hope to set the example of being a strong and independent Latina just as my mother has done for me.