By Edwin Reyes — Argentinean Alfonsina Storni in her poem, Peso Ancestral (translated as “ancestral burden”) describes the pressure on Latino males to act like a man, showing no emotions, because that was how they were raised. For Latinos as a population, that ancestral burden translates to realizing, understanding, and living their identity.
In “A Conversation With Latinos On Race,” a New York Times video posted on The Sun webpage, one individual describes his identity as confusing when he needs to check boxes; it is not clear whether he should identify himself as a Latino or a Hispanic while he knows he is Mexican. Being a Latino pushes many to feel embarrassed; problems such as not knowing which box to check could be eliminated if he or she were of another race.
Furthermore, it is easy for Latinos to assume success is more easily attained when there is not a cultural barrier. But from the outside looking in at the Latino population, it is the opposite. A goal completed, whether it is a high school graduation, finding a job, or getting into a hard college, appears more impressive when accomplished by someone of Latino or Hispanic descent.
Latinos can be an object of interest to others. As a Latino or a Hispanic, it is known there is a high level of stubbornness; an attitude of pride dependent on accepting no help. This is a key component of the ancestral burden we all carry. It creates an identity crisis – is a Latino trying to change their course for themselves, or because they think assimilation is necessary to fit in? Most Latinos realize they do not want to work long days, living pay check to pay check; or worry about being sent back to where they came from. This realization urges many Latinos to hide their background, hoping to find a new identity.
Ancestral burden also causes unwillingness to take action because Latinos have been disappointed or wronged many times before. This notion is typically associated with politics, where Latinos are reluctant to be invested in politics in a new country because of the corrupt politics in their country of origin. For me, this aspect of the ancestral burden is still inevitable. I rely on things to fall into place even if I decide not take action. Having a “plan B” is more important than ensuring that “Plan A” is carefully executed.
This negative characteristic conflicts with the incredible work ethic Latinos exhibit. We are willing to step up to do the tasks most others would pass on; we want to do more if possible and we truly want to work. Many of us simply need a jumpstart, or a place to begin. Once the path is set, it is followed and we soon become trailblazers.
I am bemused or puzzled when I hear organizations, schools or other people request the help or presence of a Latino. Part of me feels a sense of motivation, humility, and pride in my biliteracy, in being able to represent my culture and background. The other perceives an act of tokenism — why am I really needed? Whom will it benefit? More than ever, the Latino voice, presence and action are relevant. The Latino identity crisis is this: society wants us to display our heritage, but be like the rest as much as possible.
Again, the ancestral burden. We are grateful for the help we receive to be happy – happier than we would be in Latin America – but we see we are stepping away from our culture. Yes, this is why we are stubborn. This is why there are some parents afraid to allow their children to look for success if it is not exactly like theirs. This is why there is still a small rebellious side to all Latinos even when they are on the right track. This is our version of staying away from the mainstream.
It has been a blessing being the Latino golden child. There is a sense of gratitude, happiness, and relief for those that find their own horizons. But would it have been different if I were not Latino?
Yes. I would not have had to carry the Latino population in the community past and present, as well as my family, on my shoulders while I was finding my own way. Which is why people are impressed with us Latinos when we do well. Which is why it is known as the “ancestral weight,” the literal translation to Storni’s poem.
Edwin Reyes is The Sun’s student reporter, soon off to college.
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