The student demonstrates that he or she has been actively immersed in and has internalized Hispanic culture. There are three pathways by which this outcome can be fulfilled: By participating in a study-abroad program in a Spanish-speaking country for at least one semester. WLC's Spanish program has exchange agreements with the University of Aguas Calientes and the University of Queretero in Mexico, and the University of Córdoba in Spain. In addition, through CSU International Programs, you can study at universities in Madrid or Granada, Spain or in Santiago, Chile. By living and working in a local heritage community over an extended period of time without interruption for at least two years. By participating in and/or completing 10 of the following cultural learning scenarios with accompanying documentation, in the target language: Participate in service learning within a local heritage community for a minimum of eight weeks beyond the actual service learning requirement. Make a minimum of three home-visits in the local heritage community to interact and communicate with members of the Hispanic culture regarding topics of personal interest, the community, culture and language. Attend or view via media a minimum of 10 cultural events and /or social activities of Hispanic culture. Actively participate and/or perform in a school or heritage community event or celebration. Participate in a heritage-community project (of some duration) that requires proficiency in Spanish and knowledge of Hispanic cultures. Conducting a one hour in-depth interview with a speaker of Spanish, eliciting, in a conversational manner, comments of a biographical nature, cultural and social observations and anecdotal reflections. View and comment on 10 movie-length films produced within and about Hispanic culture. Participate at least five times in organized sports or recreation activities of Hispanic culture. Demonstrate cultural skills by making hotel reservations, ordering meals and shopping in stores or markets in heritage settings where Spanish is spoken. This objective is assessed by faculty.
Pathway 2
Part A and B
My Topic/Theme: The impact of women in the Chicano Culture
Ensemble 1: “Women Are Not Roses” (quote/poem) by Ana Castillo
Ensemble 2: “Woman Hollering Creek” (short story) by Sandra Cisneros
“Women Are Not Roses” Analysis:
“Women have no beginning only continual flows. Women are not roses they are not oceans or stars. i would like to tell her this but i think she already knows.”
The idea of a woman has always been interpreted in a complex way. The value and work of a woman is seen as being continuous. She represents the reproductive element of life, in which society continues to depict her as being that of a caretaker, a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a daughter, a sister, a homemaker, a cook, a devoted partner, a lover, and a friend. A woman is usually recognized as being submissive, attentive, busy, traditional, understanding, empathetic, compassionate, warm, tender, kind, loving, sexual, beautiful, and nurturing. Women have always maintained their ability to adapt to change. They are driven by their determination to overcome barriers that are placed in front of them. Theoretically speaking, unlike roses, which live for a short period of time and then die, women live long enough to raise their great grandchildren. A rose is very fragile-but a woman has always been strong-willed. When the petals of a rose wilt and die the flower is perceived as being unattractive and unuseful.
When a woman grows with age she becomes beautiful and wise. An ocean is a body of water which rises and falls repetitively. It moves with the force of strong wind and it is pulled by the earth’s gravity. A woman is not just her body but her soul. A woman moves with her heart in her hand; she does not need the strength of a man to control or carry her. A star is bright, shiny, and pretty to look at for a short amount of time and eventually burns out and dies. A woman’s role is not always to look pretty. A woman does not need to look physically good to others, because she is beautiful inside and out.
Evidence for interpretation:
Women Are Not Roses (1984), for example, "explores the difficulties of poor and working-class women who must choose between devoting their energies to erotic relationships or to class struggles. Castillo characterized these arenas as feminine and masculine, respectively, and looked at how women claim their own sexuality as they negotiate between these conflicting desires."
"Woman Hollering Creek" Analysis:
Thesis: In the story "Woman Hollering Creek" Sandra Cisneros discusses the issues of living life as a married woman through Cleofilas character. Woman Hollering Creek demonstrates a typical situation of a family experiencing domestic abuse. Cleofilas learns how to be a woman by watching television. Imagining herself to be the perfect woman, wife and mother, she fantasizes that her life is like that on t.v. Since no one is there to really teach her or guide her throughout her marriage, Cleofilas creates her own ideas from the soap opera she watches. She slowly begins to learn that her marriage is nothing like the soap opera she watches.
Analysis:
The novel begins describing Cleofilas Father’s desires of having his daughter get happily married. Her father wants her to marry Juan Pedro Martinez Sanchez. As most fathers do, he wants her to be happy. At first Cleofilas is anxious and nervous when her marriage begins. Her father tells her that he loves her and that she can always return home if she needs to. The protagonist marries a man who is physically and mentally abusive towards her. The author uses the example of abuse to show how men are traditionally more dominating than women within the Hispanic culture. Cisneros makes a point of saying that women in the Hispanic culture are very submissive and passive when it comes to standing up to their male counterparts. This point is illustrated through Cleofilas having to live without her mother’s emotional support, and is unable to receive any type of guidance on how to be a good wife and mother. The writer attempts to instil a sense of compassion in her readers. Cisneros's wants us to feel empathy for victims of domestic abuse. As Cleofilas life unfolds she experiences feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, isolation, depression, and most of all denial. Like most victims of abuse, Cleofilas struggles to admit to herself that what she is going through, is not healthy and that she deserves better. She most likely blames herself for the abuse she receives from her husband. Traditionally, most Latina women marry quite young as in Cleofilas case. With young age comes vulnerability, innocence, and naiveness.
This novel depicts the reality of many Hispanic women who are viewed as being second class citizens and who do not have a voice. They are expected to marry and have children at a young age. They are not encouraged to become educated or pursue a successful career. They are also not expected to be the breadwinner of the family. The dominating role of her father and her brothers in the story reflect this perspective. In addition, the author also make it clear that most men in the Hispanic culture expect to be waited on by their wives. So what outcome do women have? Many women do not divorce their abusive husbands because they most likely are religious and believe that getting a divorce is a sin, especially according to the Catholic religion. Many of them are not educated as in Cleofilas case. The wife’s family usually pressures her into “putting up” with her husband or blames her for his ill treatment towards her. The only option then, is to run away. It is left up to the reader to decide what the final outcome is for Cleofilas. The author does not tell us what happened to Cleofilas and her husband after she attempted to leave her husband.
The story is written in third person.
Conflict:
The nature of the conflict is the protagonist, Cleofilas being forced into marriage by her father- the antagonist and going through the abuse by her husband, also another antagonist- then trying to get out of the situation. There are many conflicts within the larger conflict. These involve Cleofilas and her father, her husband, her brothers, and even her friends.
CHARACTERIZATION
The story's main character is Cleofilas and she is a representation of Latino women and how non-Latinos, perceive them.
Setting:
Mood: emotional sadness and despair
Symbolism: The characters of Cleofilas neighbors who are both widowed wives named Dolores and Soledad.
Theme: Cisneros states "You or No One" Has experienced all types of hardships, but believes that staying kind and loving no matter what happens is the most important thing in life. (Cisneros 45) Cisneros suggested "Did you ever notice ... how nothing around here is named after a woman? Really. Unless she's virgin. I guess you're only famous if you're virgin" (Cisneros 55) Cisneros states "the moment came, and he slapped her once, and then again, again, until the lip split and bled an orchid of blood" (Cisneros 50)Cisneros offers her reader this idea "Sometimes she thinks of her father's house. But how could she go back there?" (Cisneros 50)Bibliography
Cisneros, Sandra (1991), Woman Hollering Creek and Other Stories, New York: Random House.
Part C and D
C. Interview Questions:
1ST Interview : Alicia Vallejo
1. How are women viewed in Chicano culture?
We are still viewed as the family caretaker; should able to handle all or most of the household chores, plus work outside the home, without complaining. We voice our opinion and some may not like it.
2. What do you feel are the advantages and disadvantages if any, of being a Chicana woman?
The advantage is that we have embraced two cultures are usually more flexible at handling cultural issues inside and outside the home. The disadvantage is that we deal with issues about our children or family and feel the brunt of discrimination and have to deal with it with grace and style. The workplace is a bit more tolerant; however, we still have to deal with stereotypes and 'educate' others by our strong work ethics, responsibility and respectful manner.
3. Where did the term Chicano/Chicana originate from and when?
I believe it began in the sixties as more young people entered colleges and universities here in southern California.
4. What are some traditions and customs of the Chicano culture that you are aware of or have personally experienced in your lifetime?
We celebrate quinceañeras, Cinco de Mayo, Dia de la Raza, car shows, Day of the Dead, tamales for Christmas, Posadas, serenata, confetti eggs (cascarones), making bunuelos and homemade flour tortillas, celebrating your santo (santo) and birthday on the actual date; asking your parents for the blessing (bendicion); kissing your grandparents or a priest hand; having a guardian angel or picture of Jesus or Mary or a cross in each bedroom. In Spanish addressing your elders or strangers by 'usted,' as well as using an elders last name until given permission to address them by first name.
5. What role do you feel, women played in the Chicano movement during the 1960’s?
Many supported the farm workers union of Cesar Chavez by actively participating in the marches and picket lines along with Dolores Huerta. I personally did not cross any picket line by UFW in front of grocery stores in East L.A. Area not did I buy grapes or lettuce. Others participated in the Garfield High School walkout by Whittier Blvd to protest police brutality in the community. Many became more politically active with MECHA, voter registration, sit ins, and began to make strives in television like Carmen Zapata who began 'villa Alegre,' to counter Sesame Street. Gloria Molina began her political career in the sixties as well.
6. Do you know of any representation (poems, novels, articles, art pieces, etc.) that depicts the role of women in Chicano culture?
The book, the House on Mango Street, the play, Real Women Have Curves, the plays 'Zoot Suit,' and 'I Don't Need Stinking Badges,' by Luis Valdez, Movie La Bamba, movie, Stand and Deliver, and the books: Dionicio Morales; The Teachings of Don Juan, to name a few.
7. What stereotypes exist in the Chicano culture or have been used to describe any person of Chicano descent?
We still speak broken Spanish; uneducated; we are all low riders; we all have tattoos or have done time in jail or prison; we all have large families; we all speak Spanish; we are all dark skinned; most of us are illegitimate or from broken homes; we are lazy and unmotivated; we all smoke pot or do drugs or drink too much beer; and we have no manners.
8. Do you believe that America has benefitted from Chicano culture if so, in what ways?
Our strong family ties and deep religious faith and sense of pride. We are hard workers and want ourselves and the future generations to get ahead.
9. Do you consider yourself a Chicana?
Most definitely!
10. What do you think it means to be a Chicano/Chicana?
To be proud of your Mexican heritage as well as being an American citizen and to be politically aware and active. To stand up to discrimination and take action when needed in a nonviolent and responsible manner.
(Please feel free to include anything you feel might help describe the image/idea of being a Chicana in today’s society).
We need to be more active in the policy making of our community, schools and church. We should inspire and guide those who are younger and/or in need of guidance and encouragement. No one makes it alone; let's do it with grace, responsibility, dignity and through higher education and policy making.
D. 2nd Interview: (Maribel Vega)
1. How are women viewed in Chicano culture?
Some are still viewed as being less than by men and society. They are still not treated as equals. They are expected to stay home and clean the house and take care of the kids.
2. What do you feel are the advantages and disadvantages if any, of being a Chicana woman?
We have all the rights of an American citizen, yet we are still viewed as being illegal immigrants.
3. Where did the term Chicano/Chicana originate from and when?
It came from Cesar Chavez and the Chicano movement of the 1960’s and 70’s.
4. What are some traditions and customs of the Chicano culture that you are aware of or have personally experienced in your lifetime?
I remember marching from Salinas to Soledad, waving around the red flag representing the campesinos.
5. What role do you feel, women played in the Chicano movement during the 1960’s?
They organized and protested and fought for equal rights just as the men did but did not get recognized for it.
6. Do you know of any representation (poems, novels, articles, art pieces, etc.) that depicts the role of women in Chicano culture?
I am familiar with the eagle in the red Cesar Chavez flag, that symbolized dignity and courage. I am familiar with the popular saying, “Si se puede, el pueblo unidos jamas sera vencido!
7. What stereotypes exist in the Chicano culture or have been used to describe any person of Chicano descent?
That we are all in gangs, lazy, and on welfare.
8. Do you believe that America has benefitted from Chicano culture if so, in what ways?
Yes, the Mexican culture has contributed new cultural beliefs, traditions and food to American culture.
9. Do you consider yourself a Chicana?
Yes, I do consider myself American with Mexican blood or roots.
10. What do you think it means to be a Chicano/Chicana?
To me it means that we have the best of both worlds and cultures.
E.
a. After conducting both interviews, I noticed more similarities than differences. Both persons had experienced either hearing racial ignorant comments about the Mexican culture and people, or been exposed to bigotry in their lives. Even though, the first interviewee is in her 60's and the other is in her late 20's, they are both know the history of the Chicano struggle. They both mention the protests during the 60's and 70's.
b. I learned during the process, that the Latino, Hispanic, and Chicano culture has experienced many challenges in fighting for equality in the United States. I have also learned that throughout history, Chicano culture has remained vibrant and strong. The discrimination they have faced has not deterred them from remaining a proud people.
c. I found a lot of similarities and comparisons between what my interviewees and my two ensembles: the role of a Chicana woman has always been rough. She is depicted as being submissive, a care taker, uneducated, married with children, religious, poor, scared. On the other hand, Chicana women have also been very creative, supportive of one another, and hardworking.
d. My own values of the Chicana culture have been about the same as theirs except that I am not a Chicana women, so I have not personally experienced what they have. I have learned about it in school and through friends, relatives or co-workers, the news, movies, documentaries, personal stories by guest-speakers, etc.
e. I believe that our values are our estimations of truth, but it also depends on every individual experience. It is more complicated than that. I guess, you could say that what you believe to be true will be true, but this is just a generalized statement. Plus, our values and beliefs are constantly evolving with life's experiences. I think that most people choose the way that they want to live their lives, but due to certain circumstances, some may not have the luxury or freedom to chose and they are left with the hand they are dealt with in life.
"Women Are Not Roses." Encyclopedia Britannica. Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 10 Mar. 2017.
http://www.uhu.es/antonia.dominguez/latinas/alarcononcastillo.pdf
Part A and B
My Topic/Theme: The impact of women in the Chicano Culture
Ensemble 1: “Women Are Not Roses” (quote/poem) by Ana Castillo
Ensemble 2: “Woman Hollering Creek” (short story) by Sandra Cisneros
“Women Are Not Roses” Analysis:
“Women have no beginning only continual flows. Women are not roses they are not oceans or stars. i would like to tell her this but i think she already knows.”
The idea of a woman has always been interpreted in a complex way. The value and work of a woman is seen as being continuous. She represents the reproductive element of life, in which society continues to depict her as being that of a caretaker, a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a daughter, a sister, a homemaker, a cook, a devoted partner, a lover, and a friend. A woman is usually recognized as being submissive, attentive, busy, traditional, understanding, empathetic, compassionate, warm, tender, kind, loving, sexual, beautiful, and nurturing. Women have always maintained their ability to adapt to change. They are driven by their determination to overcome barriers that are placed in front of them. Theoretically speaking, unlike roses, which live for a short period of time and then die, women live long enough to raise their great grandchildren. A rose is very fragile-but a woman has always been strong-willed. When the petals of a rose wilt and die the flower is perceived as being unattractive and unuseful.
When a woman grows with age she becomes beautiful and wise. An ocean is a body of water which rises and falls repetitively. It moves with the force of strong wind and it is pulled by the earth’s gravity. A woman is not just her body but her soul. A woman moves with her heart in her hand; she does not need the strength of a man to control or carry her. A star is bright, shiny, and pretty to look at for a short amount of time and eventually burns out and dies. A woman’s role is not always to look pretty. A woman does not need to look physically good to others, because she is beautiful inside and out.
Evidence for interpretation:
Women Are Not Roses (1984), for example, "explores the difficulties of poor and working-class women who must choose between devoting their energies to erotic relationships or to class struggles. Castillo characterized these arenas as feminine and masculine, respectively, and looked at how women claim their own sexuality as they negotiate between these conflicting desires."
"Woman Hollering Creek" Analysis:
Thesis: In the story "Woman Hollering Creek" Sandra Cisneros discusses the issues of living life as a married woman through Cleofilas character. Woman Hollering Creek demonstrates a typical situation of a family experiencing domestic abuse. Cleofilas learns how to be a woman by watching television. Imagining herself to be the perfect woman, wife and mother, she fantasizes that her life is like that on t.v. Since no one is there to really teach her or guide her throughout her marriage, Cleofilas creates her own ideas from the soap opera she watches. She slowly begins to learn that her marriage is nothing like the soap opera she watches.
Analysis:
The novel begins describing Cleofilas Father’s desires of having his daughter get happily married. Her father wants her to marry Juan Pedro Martinez Sanchez. As most fathers do, he wants her to be happy. At first Cleofilas is anxious and nervous when her marriage begins. Her father tells her that he loves her and that she can always return home if she needs to. The protagonist marries a man who is physically and mentally abusive towards her. The author uses the example of abuse to show how men are traditionally more dominating than women within the Hispanic culture. Cisneros makes a point of saying that women in the Hispanic culture are very submissive and passive when it comes to standing up to their male counterparts. This point is illustrated through Cleofilas having to live without her mother’s emotional support, and is unable to receive any type of guidance on how to be a good wife and mother. The writer attempts to instil a sense of compassion in her readers. Cisneros's wants us to feel empathy for victims of domestic abuse. As Cleofilas life unfolds she experiences feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, isolation, depression, and most of all denial. Like most victims of abuse, Cleofilas struggles to admit to herself that what she is going through, is not healthy and that she deserves better. She most likely blames herself for the abuse she receives from her husband. Traditionally, most Latina women marry quite young as in Cleofilas case. With young age comes vulnerability, innocence, and naiveness.
This novel depicts the reality of many Hispanic women who are viewed as being second class citizens and who do not have a voice. They are expected to marry and have children at a young age. They are not encouraged to become educated or pursue a successful career. They are also not expected to be the breadwinner of the family. The dominating role of her father and her brothers in the story reflect this perspective. In addition, the author also make it clear that most men in the Hispanic culture expect to be waited on by their wives. So what outcome do women have? Many women do not divorce their abusive husbands because they most likely are religious and believe that getting a divorce is a sin, especially according to the Catholic religion. Many of them are not educated as in Cleofilas case. The wife’s family usually pressures her into “putting up” with her husband or blames her for his ill treatment towards her. The only option then, is to run away. It is left up to the reader to decide what the final outcome is for Cleofilas. The author does not tell us what happened to Cleofilas and her husband after she attempted to leave her husband.
The story is written in third person.
Conflict:
The nature of the conflict is the protagonist, Cleofilas being forced into marriage by her father- the antagonist and going through the abuse by her husband, also another antagonist- then trying to get out of the situation. There are many conflicts within the larger conflict. These involve Cleofilas and her father, her husband, her brothers, and even her friends.
CHARACTERIZATION
The story's main character is Cleofilas and she is a representation of Latino women and how non-Latinos, perceive them.
Setting:
Mood: emotional sadness and despair
Symbolism: The characters of Cleofilas neighbors who are both widowed wives named Dolores and Soledad.
Theme: Cisneros states "You or No One" Has experienced all types of hardships, but believes that staying kind and loving no matter what happens is the most important thing in life. (Cisneros 45) Cisneros suggested "Did you ever notice ... how nothing around here is named after a woman? Really. Unless she's virgin. I guess you're only famous if you're virgin" (Cisneros 55) Cisneros states "the moment came, and he slapped her once, and then again, again, until the lip split and bled an orchid of blood" (Cisneros 50)Cisneros offers her reader this idea "Sometimes she thinks of her father's house. But how could she go back there?" (Cisneros 50)Bibliography
Cisneros, Sandra (1991), Woman Hollering Creek and Other Stories, New York: Random House.
Part C and D
C. Interview Questions:
- How are women viewed in Chicano culture?
- What do you feel are the advantages and disadvantages if any, of being a chicana woman?
- Where did the term Chicano/Chicana originate from and when?
- What are some traditions and customs of the Chicano culture that you are aware of or have personally experienced in your lifetime?
- What role do you feel, women played in the Chicano movement during the 1960’s?
- Do you know of any representation (poems, novels, articles, art pieces, etc.) that depicts the role of women in Chicano culture?
- What stereotypes exist in the Chicano culture or have been used to describe any person of Chicano descent?
- Do you believe that America has benefitted from Chicano culture if so, in what ways?
- Do you consider yourself a Chicana?
- What do you think it means to be a Chicano/Chicana?
1ST Interview : Alicia Vallejo
1. How are women viewed in Chicano culture?
We are still viewed as the family caretaker; should able to handle all or most of the household chores, plus work outside the home, without complaining. We voice our opinion and some may not like it.
2. What do you feel are the advantages and disadvantages if any, of being a Chicana woman?
The advantage is that we have embraced two cultures are usually more flexible at handling cultural issues inside and outside the home. The disadvantage is that we deal with issues about our children or family and feel the brunt of discrimination and have to deal with it with grace and style. The workplace is a bit more tolerant; however, we still have to deal with stereotypes and 'educate' others by our strong work ethics, responsibility and respectful manner.
3. Where did the term Chicano/Chicana originate from and when?
I believe it began in the sixties as more young people entered colleges and universities here in southern California.
4. What are some traditions and customs of the Chicano culture that you are aware of or have personally experienced in your lifetime?
We celebrate quinceañeras, Cinco de Mayo, Dia de la Raza, car shows, Day of the Dead, tamales for Christmas, Posadas, serenata, confetti eggs (cascarones), making bunuelos and homemade flour tortillas, celebrating your santo (santo) and birthday on the actual date; asking your parents for the blessing (bendicion); kissing your grandparents or a priest hand; having a guardian angel or picture of Jesus or Mary or a cross in each bedroom. In Spanish addressing your elders or strangers by 'usted,' as well as using an elders last name until given permission to address them by first name.
5. What role do you feel, women played in the Chicano movement during the 1960’s?
Many supported the farm workers union of Cesar Chavez by actively participating in the marches and picket lines along with Dolores Huerta. I personally did not cross any picket line by UFW in front of grocery stores in East L.A. Area not did I buy grapes or lettuce. Others participated in the Garfield High School walkout by Whittier Blvd to protest police brutality in the community. Many became more politically active with MECHA, voter registration, sit ins, and began to make strives in television like Carmen Zapata who began 'villa Alegre,' to counter Sesame Street. Gloria Molina began her political career in the sixties as well.
6. Do you know of any representation (poems, novels, articles, art pieces, etc.) that depicts the role of women in Chicano culture?
The book, the House on Mango Street, the play, Real Women Have Curves, the plays 'Zoot Suit,' and 'I Don't Need Stinking Badges,' by Luis Valdez, Movie La Bamba, movie, Stand and Deliver, and the books: Dionicio Morales; The Teachings of Don Juan, to name a few.
7. What stereotypes exist in the Chicano culture or have been used to describe any person of Chicano descent?
We still speak broken Spanish; uneducated; we are all low riders; we all have tattoos or have done time in jail or prison; we all have large families; we all speak Spanish; we are all dark skinned; most of us are illegitimate or from broken homes; we are lazy and unmotivated; we all smoke pot or do drugs or drink too much beer; and we have no manners.
8. Do you believe that America has benefitted from Chicano culture if so, in what ways?
Our strong family ties and deep religious faith and sense of pride. We are hard workers and want ourselves and the future generations to get ahead.
9. Do you consider yourself a Chicana?
Most definitely!
10. What do you think it means to be a Chicano/Chicana?
To be proud of your Mexican heritage as well as being an American citizen and to be politically aware and active. To stand up to discrimination and take action when needed in a nonviolent and responsible manner.
(Please feel free to include anything you feel might help describe the image/idea of being a Chicana in today’s society).
We need to be more active in the policy making of our community, schools and church. We should inspire and guide those who are younger and/or in need of guidance and encouragement. No one makes it alone; let's do it with grace, responsibility, dignity and through higher education and policy making.
D. 2nd Interview: (Maribel Vega)
1. How are women viewed in Chicano culture?
Some are still viewed as being less than by men and society. They are still not treated as equals. They are expected to stay home and clean the house and take care of the kids.
2. What do you feel are the advantages and disadvantages if any, of being a Chicana woman?
We have all the rights of an American citizen, yet we are still viewed as being illegal immigrants.
3. Where did the term Chicano/Chicana originate from and when?
It came from Cesar Chavez and the Chicano movement of the 1960’s and 70’s.
4. What are some traditions and customs of the Chicano culture that you are aware of or have personally experienced in your lifetime?
I remember marching from Salinas to Soledad, waving around the red flag representing the campesinos.
5. What role do you feel, women played in the Chicano movement during the 1960’s?
They organized and protested and fought for equal rights just as the men did but did not get recognized for it.
6. Do you know of any representation (poems, novels, articles, art pieces, etc.) that depicts the role of women in Chicano culture?
I am familiar with the eagle in the red Cesar Chavez flag, that symbolized dignity and courage. I am familiar with the popular saying, “Si se puede, el pueblo unidos jamas sera vencido!
7. What stereotypes exist in the Chicano culture or have been used to describe any person of Chicano descent?
That we are all in gangs, lazy, and on welfare.
8. Do you believe that America has benefitted from Chicano culture if so, in what ways?
Yes, the Mexican culture has contributed new cultural beliefs, traditions and food to American culture.
9. Do you consider yourself a Chicana?
Yes, I do consider myself American with Mexican blood or roots.
10. What do you think it means to be a Chicano/Chicana?
To me it means that we have the best of both worlds and cultures.
E.
a. After conducting both interviews, I noticed more similarities than differences. Both persons had experienced either hearing racial ignorant comments about the Mexican culture and people, or been exposed to bigotry in their lives. Even though, the first interviewee is in her 60's and the other is in her late 20's, they are both know the history of the Chicano struggle. They both mention the protests during the 60's and 70's.
b. I learned during the process, that the Latino, Hispanic, and Chicano culture has experienced many challenges in fighting for equality in the United States. I have also learned that throughout history, Chicano culture has remained vibrant and strong. The discrimination they have faced has not deterred them from remaining a proud people.
c. I found a lot of similarities and comparisons between what my interviewees and my two ensembles: the role of a Chicana woman has always been rough. She is depicted as being submissive, a care taker, uneducated, married with children, religious, poor, scared. On the other hand, Chicana women have also been very creative, supportive of one another, and hardworking.
d. My own values of the Chicana culture have been about the same as theirs except that I am not a Chicana women, so I have not personally experienced what they have. I have learned about it in school and through friends, relatives or co-workers, the news, movies, documentaries, personal stories by guest-speakers, etc.
e. I believe that our values are our estimations of truth, but it also depends on every individual experience. It is more complicated than that. I guess, you could say that what you believe to be true will be true, but this is just a generalized statement. Plus, our values and beliefs are constantly evolving with life's experiences. I think that most people choose the way that they want to live their lives, but due to certain circumstances, some may not have the luxury or freedom to chose and they are left with the hand they are dealt with in life.
"Women Are Not Roses." Encyclopedia Britannica. Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 10 Mar. 2017.
http://www.uhu.es/antonia.dominguez/latinas/alarcononcastillo.pdf