CULTURAL ISSUES
Esmeralda Santiago addresses the apparent (geographical) divide between the islanders of Puerto Rico and those who migrated to America in search for better lives. This divide occurs due to the struggle to find a balance between Puerto Rican and American cultures. Bicultural identity is prominent and at times can be damaging to one's sense of self. The idea of betraying one's roots due to becoming "Americanized" is a common issue for immigrants. Therefore, we see how culture impacts one's development of identity. Furthermore, Puerto Rican authors like Santiago utilize their voice to bring attention to and explain the struggles of migrating, poverty, biculturalism and the sense of belonging when adapting to a new culture.
Esmeralda Santiago is most inspired by her own journey as a Puerto Rican who was immersed in and affected by American culture. From trying to fit in to struggling to be accepted by her family who lacked understanding. Many Puerto Ricans who remain on the island tend to judge Americanized islanders due to their lack of understanding the effects of immersion into a new culture. Immigrants face discrimination due to their apparent allegiance to a foreign culture, but once they begin to adopt the American culture they are subject to judgement from their family members and friends who did not experience the same culture shock.
Santiago also addresses the negative connotation that comes with the term Hispanic or Latino/a. Many American neglect to see how using these terms in a general sense can be discriminatory and disrespectful. Santiago shares how moving to America caused her to become "Hispanic" rather than people viewing her for what she identified with, which is Puerto Rican. There is an apparent cultural issue within America when it comes to addressing individuals as Hispanic or Latino/a, because many would prefer to be recognized for their country rather than being generalized.
Ultimately Santiago seems to be inspired by her rejection from both Puerto Rican and American cultures and the struggle to find oneself. Although unfortunate, her experiences not only allowed her to become the woman she is today but more importantly has allowed her to bring attention to these cultural issues that so many face but are unable to speak on. To come from one culture and adopt another is not an easy task -- one must work to maintain their heritage while struggling to be accepted by those of the adopted culture. Like Hughes stated in her research journal, "home will always have an influence even when its permanence is shaky" (Hughes, "Winter with the..."). With that being said, Santiago and other immigrants like her embrace both cultures, influencing personal adaptation and overcoming struggles. It is important to embrace one's newer culture in order to fit in and expand one's gestalt, but it is equally as important to maintain one's true culture and identity.