My Single Story 

Jennifer Cortez 

People tend to think that I’m just another shy, normal American girl with a normal American home. They approach me the same way they would approach another American. They stereotypically think that I’m one of those “annoying, rebellious white girls” just because I have light skin. The impression that people get from me defines what others think about me. People are oftentimes surprised when they meet me and find out that I’m not what I appear to be on the outside.

(Left: Mexican tamales; Right: Salvadorian pupusas)

I am more than what people think I am. I'm an American because I was born here, but I don't have U.S. roots. Both my parents are Mexican, and my stepfather is Salvadorian. Being multicultural is what differentiates me from others. I love being fluent in Spanish because it opens up more opportunities for me. I love my family's traditions because it gives me something to look forward to. But, because almost everyone favors United States traditions, I always shut out my Hispanic side. I would never bring Mexican food to school, and I would always be embarrassed when another Latino wanted to speak Spanish because I thought others would hear me. Now, I am ashamed that I was ever ashamed of my roots. I will not let my single story dominate me; I will embrace my differences because they are what define me.