Celebrating Cultural Diversity on October 12th: Embracing Our Rich Heritage

At CasaLatina, we believe in celebrating cultural diversity and honouring the indigenous peoples who have shaped our continent. October 12th holds a special significance for us as Latin Americans, as it marks the day Christopher Columbus landed on American soil in 1492. Rather than glorifying the colonisers, we commemorate this date by embracing our diverse backgrounds and paying tribute to the traditions and histories of our ancestors.

From our childhoods in Colombia and Venezuela, we have fond memories of celebrating October 12th as 'el Día de la Raza' (Day of Race). In school, we would participate in parades, dressing up in traditional attire representing different regions of our countries. It was a joyous occasion that allowed us to appreciate the beauty and richness of our cultural heritage.

In recent years, Latin American countries have recognized the need to shift the focus of this holiday. The name has been changed to highlight respect for cultural diversity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of all ethnicities that coexist within our borders. This change reflects our commitment to acknowledging and appreciating the richness of our diverse heritage.

Parades and festivities are held across our continent, showcasing the wide array of cultures, gastronomy, music, dances, and traditions that make Latin America so vibrant. This is our chance to embrace our differences and unite in celebration of our shared values and ancestry.

While the new name, the Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity, may be a bit of a mouthful, it accurately represents the essence of what we stand for as a region. We proudly recognise ourselves as a multi-ethnic and multicultural community, where diversity is not only celebrated but cherished as a fundamental element of our identity.

At CasaLatina, we are dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditions and artistry of our artisans. Through our collaborations, we aim to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship and share their stories with the world. By supporting these artisans, we contribute to the economic well-being of their communities, fostering a sense of pride and resilience in the face of adversity.

On this October 12th, let us come together to honour our cultural diversity, to celebrate our shared history, and to embrace the legacy of our indigenous ancestors. It is through recognising and appreciating our differences that we can truly unite as one diverse and vibrant Latin America.

Join us in this journey of celebration and exploration, as we continue to elevate the beauty of our heritage, one exquisite product at a time.

With warm regards,

Sharon and Aleja

Founders of CasaLatina