Embracing My Latina Side

Welcome Back! 

In this post, I’m diving into my Hispanic side. As I mentioned before, my dad is from Mexico—but not just anywhere in Mexico. He’s from Oaxaca, a place that, as a kid, I struggled to pronounce. Over time, though, I got the hang of it.

Growing up, I didn’t have many Hispanic friends. It wasn’t until high school that I met others who shared a similar background. But even then, I still felt like I didn’t quite fit in. At first, I thought it might be because they were fluent in Spanish, while I was more at an intermediate level. Sometimes, I couldn’t fully follow their conversations, and that left me feeling a bit out of place.

But I think the real reason I felt disconnected was that no one else seemed to come from where my dad is from. When people asked me where in Mexico I was from, my response would often be met with a confused look and a, “Where’s that?” Most of the people I knew were from more familiar places like Durango, Jalisco, and Michoacán. 

As I grew older, I realized that it’s okay to come from a place that isn’t as common—it makes me even more unique! I’ve learned to value and appreciate Oaxaca, and I’m proud to say that’s where I’m from. I couldn’t be more grateful for the beautiful, rich culture Oaxaca offers and the tremendous love and support I receive from my family there. Most of my dad’s family still lives in Oaxaca, and I proudly call it my second home!

Who am I ?

Hi there!

I'm Amaya Gonzalez, and my story is one of blending cultures, embracing diversity, and finding strength in uniqueness. My story begins as the daughter of two extraordinary people who each left their homelands—my father from the vibrant streets of Oaxaca, Mexico, and my mother from the rolling green hills of Galway, Ireland—seeking new opportunities in the United States. Their paths, though different, came together in a bustling hotel in downtown Chicago. My mom worked in a cozy Irish pub, while my dad did his work in the hotel's restaurant. It wasn't until a fateful Christmas party, where the staff from both sides came together, that they finally met and instantly connected.

Their love story led to marriage and the birth of their first child—me—a year later. Five years after that, our family was complete with the arrival of my little brother. Fast forward to today, and that once little girl is now a senior in college, on the brink of turning 22 and stepping into the next chapter of her life.

As I prepare for life post-graduation, I find myself reflecting on my unique upbringing, as it was filled with rich cultural contrasts and unexpected challenges. It’s true, that my childhood was different from most, but it’s this very difference that has shaped me into the woman I am today. My blog is a view into that world, offering insights into how growing up at the crossroads of two vibrant cultures has molded my identity and set me apart in the most wonderful ways!