A quinceañera is a celebrated tradition that transitions a young girl into a woman. It is marked with a festive celebration to commemorate a girl’s 15th birthday. It is generally celebrated in Mexico and other Latin American countries where Catholicism is rampant. It is a Latina’s very own sweet sixteen. Celebrating a quinceañera A quinceañera includes a mass [...]

Danza Folklorica, also known as Ballet Folklorico, is a beautiful Mexican dance that reflects heritage and tradition. There are many types of dances from different states throughout Mexico that highlight the culture of that region through unique costumes and music. The folklore, costumes, colors, steps and many other elements represent  Mexican culture. Fabiola Méndez Chaparro, dances Ballet Folklorico, [...]

The reasons to be proud as a Latina are endless with a culture full of rich traditions and history. These Latinitas editors and readers share their top reasons to be proud of their culture. I’m proud to be Latina because of what an amazing culture I have. My culture has rich food, spectacular dances, a [...]

As the holidays approach and the frenzy to buy the perfect gift for your loved ones starts to creep up on you, it is important to take the time and reflect on what the season really means. It is also equally important to remember that as Latinas, we have our own special sazon to the [...]

La Virgen de Guadalupe is one of the most praised saints in the Hispanic culture. She has risen to become the symbol of Mexico, and her basilica in Mexico is visited by millions every year. The Virgin’s iconic image can be seen in thousands of churches, homes and even city murals. Her legend is a miraculous [...]

Red, yellow, pink, white, black, purple and orange cut into intricate shapes decorate many Mexican homes and altars during what is known as the Day of the Dead or Día de los Muertos in Spanish. This unique colorful day celebrates family members who have passed away embracing la muerte (death). What are all these colorful [...]

A milagro can directly be translated to “miracle” in English. For many Latinos, those shiny charms are meant for more than just decorations. These religious folk charms have traditionally been used throughout Latina America for healing purpose or as religious offerings. Early accounts of milagros tell the story of Hernan Cortez of Spain who offered [...]

As strong Latinas, we should take it upon ourselves to strengthen our culture in ourselves so we can easily spread it to our surroundings. Sometimes it may feel like measures to stifle our culture are being taken more often than not. Although it is sad and unfortunate, we can help promote our culture by embracing [...]

During Spring Break 2012, I was given the opportunity to travel to Sevilla, Spain and spend a whole week there. Here’s a quick summary of Spain in my eyes. The People I arrived at Spain at around 12 o’clock p.m. CEST, meaning it was around 3 in the afternoon back in Illinois. I was so [...]

Selena Quintanilla Perez (April 16, 1971- March 31, 1995), known by many as “Selena” was a Mexican- American singer-songwriter, “Queen of Tejano music,” and was seen as an icon by many. Her musical career began at an early age and so did many obstacles but was able to overcome them and become successful. Selena began [...]