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Re: [ranchos] Re: double surnames and Cultural Identity


 
I always say, I am Mexican, but was born here.  Invariably, I am always asked by Mexicanos, what part of Mexico? It seems that an immediate formation of one's family background is formed when you tell them where...which means I am considered a nortena - and my progressive ideas almost seem to be forgiven (lol)
 
...but the truth is that I raised by a family from La Barca, Jalisco...whose family migrated to Guadalajara - which was considered provincial (by elders), and a certain decorum was expected as a female.
 
....ah, pero la sangre llama, and I was never able to conform to the provincial expectations, despite the many hours dedicated to crocheting, sewing, and strict upbringing of culture/manners.  I was always "out there", almost tom-boyish, with radical ideas, ready to defend them verbally.....not acceptable for a provincial upbringing....where the art of social graces was an expectation (meaning that I had to be quiet, demure, and find my way through acceptable male/Catholic norms). 
 
....talk about identity crisis.....but I felt I came home when I met my relatives from Coahuila...strong stock from the frontier settlement.....however, I have yet to meet Zacatecanos relatives......I wonder if I inherited my disposition from both sides of the family????
 
Esperanza