Mes de la Herencia Hispana

Sharing our Stories - Page 2

A Thirst for Knowledge
"My great-grandfather, Ramon Torres, was a Cuban patriot who fought in the unsuccessful, Ten Years’ War for Cuban independence from Spain . When the war ended in 1879, Ramon immigrated to America .

After living for a time in New York City and Key West , Ramon settled in the Ybor City section of Tampa , where he made a good living as a cigar roller. Although Ramon did not attend college, he was well educated. Cigar rollers, who worked in large, relatively quiet rooms, would contribute part of their pay to “El Lector”, who would read to a whole room of cigar rollers for several hours each day. Ramon had a good knowledge of history, current events and literature.

Ramon had high aspirations for his sons, so he named them after Americans he admired. Franklin, my grandfather, was named after Benjamin Franklin, and Ralph was named after Ralph Waldo Emerson.

When I was transferred to Atlanta, I was surprised to discover that 100 years ago, my great-grandfather operated his own cigar store at Five Points in downtown Atlanta, just a few blocks from Norfolk Southern’s offices on Spring Street, where I now work."

Patrick Torres
Manager equipment planning
Atlanta

Distinct Cultures
Understanding the diversity among Hispanics is the first step in understanding the Hispanic culture. During this month, I would like to stress the difference in culture between Central and South America. These cultures are too vibrant and moving in their own right to be lumped together. To assume that all Hispanics are the same is like saying the British and the Americans share the same culture. The fact of the matter is that they are very distinct in mannerisms, values and humor, yet they maintain the broad characteristics that sharing a language and heritage provides. There are differences in cuisine, dialects and style of dress just to name a few.

I feel that Hispanic Heritage Month is quite useful in educating the general public about a growing segment of our population. This month may be used by some to discuss political issues such as immigration and jobs, but it also brings into focus the demographics, values, and endurance that the Latin people tap into to succeed under sometimes harsh conditions.

Society has been exposed to Hispanic culture mainly through people of Mexican descent. Unfortunately, not many other cultures have had a profound impact on society, and are sometimes conglomerated with the Mexican culture. Nevertheless, I feel that society is making strides to bridge this gap. Education, tolerance and understanding will be key ingredients in the assimilation of Hispanic culture into American culture.

Francesca Melloni
MODALOGISTICS ™ co-op student
Norfolk

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