One of the most defining things for Latine cultures is our respect for traditions. The rich tapestry of our culture is a vibrant mosaic of centuries old rituals, visuals, and above all, passing on knowledge from centuries past to the present, from ancestors to children and so on. However, an important part of this practice is how these traditions are adapted into our times.
As we move forward into the 21st century, younger Latines are giving their own spin to some of our most defining lore, infusing it with new perspectives and breaking free from traditional gender roles.
In partnership with Walmart, Remezcla is exploring how our community is reshaping our heritage into something both modern and respectful by challenging gender norms, embracing digital tools, celebrating diversity, and fusing multiple cultures.
At Walmart, moments of turning stereotypes upside down and reshaping beliefs is important. When it comes to gender, they want to support people who challenge misconceptions and assumptions, as well as break cultural taboos and push forward to a better future. A clear example is their partnering with NGL Collective to support diverse Latine filmmakers in their pursuit of realizing their dreams and changing the Hollywood landscape.
These efforts demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of Latine culture in order for the community to thrive in this age. Traditions have been evolving for centuries by fusing elements from the diaspora into our own culture to enrich our collective identity, while staying true to the core values that have been passed down through generations. This reimagining of traditions ensures that Latine culture remains a vibrant and dynamic force in the modern world.
Quinceañeras for Boys: Embracing Gender Diversity
Gen Z is reimagining this tradition by embracing gender diversity. In recent years, some families have started celebrating quinceañeras for boys, known as “quinceañeros.” These celebrations emphasize the importance of embracing one’s identity and expressing it freely within the framework of cultural traditions, while also accepting LGBTQ+ people into their families and community.
Walmart celebrates people building upon one another, fostering individual progress through collaboration. This way, individuals from all genders can find each other and collaborate to pioneer a new chapter for Latines. By donating generously to the New National Museum of the American Latino, they are bringing these values to the world of art to inspire future generations, as well as movements.
Women Leading the Way in Rancheras Music
Rancheras music has long been associated with the rugged, macho image of the Mexican charro; however, women have been part of this musical tradition for a while now, thanks to singers like Lucha Villa, Chavela Vargas, and Lola Beltrán. However, they have mostly been outliers – the exception to the rule. Now, things are changing: From big stages across the world to small gatherings where live music is enjoyed among family, these talented women bring a fresh perspective to rancheras music.
Digital Diaspora: Reinventing Connection
In today’s very online world, Latines are generating their own content and searching for their roots to build their online personas. By becoming more authentic with themselves in the process, they’re creating communities around the world. They use these platforms to tell their own stories and expand upon their heritage by learning traditional recipes, dances, clothing, and learning their ancestral languages, especially in the diaspora.
The Fusion of Cultures: Creating New Traditions
Younger people are reimagining traditions by embracing cultural fusion. They’re keeping the most relevant signifiers in place, while finding a way to display and celebrate them in their own way. Latine youth are increasingly identifying with multiple heritages, leading to the emergence of new traditions that blend elements from different cultures. A clear example is the celebration of Día de los Muertos in the United States, which has evolved to incorporate various cultural influences, resulting in unique and diverse celebrations that might differ from those in Mexico.