Cultural Background 1
Benchmark Cultural Background Paper
Kati Bland
School of Behavioral Sciences, Liberty University
Cultural Background 2
Abstract
Mexican culture is a vibrant and multifaceted tapestry of traditions, influenced by
indigenous, European, and contemporary elements, which significantly shapes the cultural
identity of Mexicans and individuals of Mexican descent. For individuals of Mexican descent
living outside Mexico, the connection to their cultural roots remains a strong force in their lives.
The resilience and sense of community that Mexican culture embodies provide a foundation for
understanding and embracing one's own cultural identity, even in foreign environments. This
paper delves into the complex relationship between my Mexican culture and the development of
cultural counseling abilities, emphasizing the profound influence my heritage exerts on my
cultural knowledge. Furthermore, there will be a highlighting of the enduring relationship
between Mexican culture and my personal cultural identity, underlining the significance of
understanding how this rich cultural heritage shapes my perception of self and my place in the
world.
Keywords: Culture, Mexican, etc.
Cultural Background 3
Introduction
Cultural identity is a multifaceted and deeply personal construct, intricately interwoven
with the tapestry of one's heritage, traditions, and experiences. Mexican culture, with rich and
diverse history, plays a pivotal role in shaping my cultural identity. Beyond the borders of
Mexico, my Mexican cultural identity has a profound influence on how I perceive and interact
with other cultures. The purpose of this paper is to explore the dynamic relationship between my
Mexican cultural identity and the impact on the perception of other cultures. We will delve into
the ways in which Mexican culture fosters a unique lens through which I view the world, interact
with diverse societies, and contribute to the global tapestry of cultural exchange.
Family Cultural Background
The most predominant culture that run in my family’s heritage include Mexican culture.
My great grandparents were born in Matamoros, Mexico, where they raised eleven children.
When she was a young woman. my grandmother moved to the United States, where she
established a permanent residence in Abeline, Texas. Shortly after relocating to the states, my
mother was born. My grandmother raised all her children to speak Spanish. My mother learned
English by attending school. At the young age of seven, my mother was able to speak both
English and Spanish fluently. Such a unique upbringing can be advantageous in the long run.
One study found that children who come from cross-cultural families are more likely to be raised
in a way they can adapt their behavior to other cultural settings (Cabrera, 2022). Moreover, the
story of how I became aware of my Hispanic culture is marveling. One sunny afternoon, I
stumbled upon a flyer in my public elementary school that advertised a cultures food festival.
The idea of immersing myself in the culture of my ancestors ignited a spark of curiosity in me.
My mother had always spoken of Mexico's beauty, the warmth of the people, and the richness of
Cultural Background 4
the Mexican traditions, but I had never experienced much of this wonder firsthand. My mother
was thrilled with my enthusiasm to attend the event and shared tales of her childhood and the
experience she had growing up in a Mexican household. She offered to show me how to cook
one of her mother’s family recipes, so I could take part in the event. My experience from the
cultures food festival became an eye-opening journey of self-discovery. I met an abundance of
people with similar cultural backgrounds to mine. After witnessing the number of people that
were strongly impacted by the culture, I began to have a profound appreciation for the Mexican
civilization. The stories I heard from various festival attendees about the struggles and triumphs
of the Mexican people deepened my connection with my Mexican roots. Even more
impressionable, the people derived from the culture themselves were some of the most
welcoming. I not only had the chance to try traditional Mexican dishes but made long-lasting
friendships. The experiences and relationships I formed from attending the cultures food festival
transformed my awareness of my Mexican background into a deep and abiding connection.
According to one study on cultural identity, one’s cultural background and family heritage has a
great influence on self-perception and what is determined to be most important (Wu & Qu,
2023). After my cultural awakening, I found that learning as much as I could from the elders in
my family was of much importance, as I wished to pass down family traditions through the
generations. Since having this realization of my family heritage, I have discovered many
traditions and customs that my relatives continue to practice today. One of these traditions is the
celebration of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. This holiday is one of Mexico's most
famous and widely celebrated traditions. Dia de los Muertos is a time to honor and remember
deceased loved ones (Hanson, 2019). Families create colorful ofrendas (altars) adorned with
marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, and the favorite foods and possessions of the departed. The
Cultural Background 5
aroma of copal incense fills the air as families visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves
of their ancestors. My relatives currently residing in Mexico take part in this celebration to this
day. Another tradition is that of Mexican cuisine. Mexican food is renowned worldwide for its
bold and flavorful dishes. Tacos, tamales, enchiladas, mole, guacamole, and salsas are just a few
examples of Mexican culinary delights. Corn is a staple ingredient, and street food stalls, or
"taquerías," are a common sight (Hanson, 2019). My mother and my aunt enjoy making
homemade tortillas and Spanish rice for our holiday dinners. We also like to incorporate piñatas
in our birthday celebrations. These colorful, paper-mâché creations are a beloved part of
Mexican birthday parties and other celebrations (Hanson, 2019). Children take turns trying to
break the piñata, which is filled with candies and small toys, while blindfolded. Shifting over to
spiritual beliefs, the Mexican culture does have a rich history of Indigenous spirituality and
Catholicism. Spanish conquistadors brought Catholicism to Mexico in the 16th century (Norget,
2021). Over time, a syncretic form of spirituality emerged, blending indigenous beliefs of
healing rituals and celestial events with Catholicism. A prime example is the veneration of the
Virgin of Guadalupe, whose appearance to the indigenous Juan Diego is a cornerstone of
Mexican Catholicism. Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)
are two significant Catholic-influenced traditions in Mexico. Semana Santa is marked by
processions and religious reenactments, while Día de los Muertos combines indigenous
reverence for the deceased with Catholic rituals (Norget, 2021). Beyond mainstream
Catholicism, Mexico has a tradition of "folk Catholicism." This type of Catholicism includes
practices such as the blessing of homes with holy water, the use of milagros (small religious
charms), and pilgrimages to sacred sites like the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan de los Lagos
(Norget, 2021). In terms of my family’s history, my grandmother was raised Catholic and
Cultural Background 6
converted to Protestantism in her later years. My mother became a Christian after meeting my
father in her early 30s. Christianity has been the cornerstone of my immediate family’s lives.
Unbeknownst to me until further studying my family’s cultural background, the ancient Mayan
and Aztec spirituality as well as contemporary spirituality have influenced much of Mexico’s
current spiritual beliefs. Yoga, meditation, and alternative healing modalities have gained
popularity, coexisting with more traditional beliefs (Norget, 2021). Furthermore, modern Mexico
is a dynamic blend of various spiritual movements and new-age practices.
Similarities and Differences
Mexican culture is a unique blend of indigenous, European, and contemporary influences,
making it both distinct and diverse. When comparing Mexican culture to other cultures around
the world, there are remarkable similarities and differences that highlight the interconnectedness
of human experiences. One of the similarities that Mexican culture has with various others is that
of family values and spirituality. Family is at the heart of Mexican culture, and the same can be
said for many cultures globally. The importance of family, strong family bonds, and the tradition
of multi-generational households are shared values. Mexico's rich spiritual traditions, influenced
by both indigenous beliefs and Catholicism, find common ground with cultures worldwide that
hold deep spiritual or religious beliefs. Practices like prayer, rituals, and reverence for the
deceased are shared elements. Mexico’s culinary diversity and festive celebrations contain
similarities, as their cuisine is renowned for flavors, colors, and variety. Culinary traditions
worldwide reflect a similar diversity, emphasizing the significance of food in cultural identity
and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. Celebratory events such as Día de los Muertos,
Independence Day, and religious festivals in Mexico bear similarities to festive occasions in
other Hispanic cultures. Festivals often include music, dance, parades, and communal gatherings.
Cultural Background 7
In contrast, the Mexican culture stands out from others regarding language, religious traditions,
and social hierarchies. While Spanish is the primary language in Mexico, each Hispanic culture
has a unique dialect. In such a case, language is a significant marker of cultural identity and
communication. Mexico's blend of indigenous spirituality and Catholicism is distinct. Other
cultures may have their own unique religious traditions or dominant faiths, such as Hinduism in
India, Buddhism in Japan, or Islam in the Middle East. Social structures and hierarchies can
differ significantly from culture to culture. In Mexico, there may be influences from pre-
Columbian social systems and European colonial legacies, while other cultures have their own
historical frameworks (Tolentino, 2022). My personal involvement with middle eastern culture
has had both positive and negative experiences attached. The positive experience I had with the
middle eastern culture was getting to enjoy dining with a family originating from the country
Jordan and learning the Arabic language. I was thrilled to become very close with the family and
remain very good friends to this day. The negative experience I have had while indulging in this
unfamiliar culture was the shrewd judgement and strictness that comes from the desire for
perfection. The societal and familial pressure to succeed both career-wise and familywise is
undeniably harsh; however, I learned that those who originate from Arab culture perceive such
pressure as expressing love to one another.
Personal Perspective
The cultural background of my Mexican heritage has been profoundly influential on my
perspective of the importance of racial and cultural identity development for other individuals.
Mexican culture, with its rich tapestry of traditions and a history marked by both indigenous and
European influences, often places a strong emphasis on the preservation of cultural identity. First
and foremost, my culture has given me a deep sense of heritage. Mexican families often have a
Cultural Background 8
profound connection to their own cultural heritage. They pass down traditions, stories, and
customs from one generation to the next. This sense of continuity and pride in my own heritage
provides a foundation for understanding the significance of cultural identity in others. My
experience with Mexican culture, as a diverse and inclusive mosaic, has fostered an appreciation
for diversity. Mexican families, often composed of people with mixed indigenous and European
backgrounds, understand the value of embracing a range of identities. This acceptance of
diversity extends beyond my own cultural context, leading to a recognition of the importance of
identity development in others. Furthermore, my experience has allowed me to take pride in my
cultural identity and in the achievements of the Mexican community. This collective pride
creates a supportive environment for me to explore, understand, and embrace alternative cultural
backgrounds. I often view my cultural identity as a source of strength, resilience, and
community. This perspective extends to other individuals and their identity journeys. I
understand that a strong sense of cultural identity can empower people to navigate life's
challenges with confidence. Moreover, growing up in a culture that values personal identity has
fostered in me empathy and understanding. This understanding can lead to an appreciation of the
challenges and joys that come with cultural identity development, making me more supportive of
others in their journey. Helm's People-of-Color Model offers valuable insights into how
Mexicans may navigate their racial and cultural identity in various contexts, especially in
countries with a dominant white culture like the United States. This framework helps us
understand the challenges, conflicts, and growth that Mexicans may experience as they confront
issues of identity, discrimination, and cultural heritage (Hays & Erford, 2023). This framework is
useful for self-exploration, as Helm's model provides a means for self-reflection and self-identity
discoveries to be made. Mexicans can use this model to better understand their own experiences
Cultural Background 9
and the impact of their cultural identity. The model can also be used for coping with
discrimination. Mexicans facing discrimination may find support and strength in the model's
stages of resistance, introspection, and integrative awareness, as this offers a roadmap for
navigating and combating racial bias (Hays & Erford). Lastly, the model can be a valuable tool
for raising awareness and promoting understanding of the experiences of Mexicans in
predominantly white societies, which can encourage conversations about cultural identity and
equity.
Social Justice and Client Advocacy
My family’s Mexican cultural background plays a significant role in shaping my view of
conducting social justice and client advocacy for others. Mexican culture is deeply rooted in a
history of resilience, community, and a commitment to justice, which informs the perspectives of
families in their advocacy efforts. Mexican culture places a strong emphasis on community and
familial bonds. I often view Hispanic cultural communities as extensions of my own family unit.
This interconnectedness instills a sense of responsibility towards the well-being of others. As a
result, I tend to prioritize social justice and advocacy efforts that benefit my community and
society. Mexican history is marked by instances of resistance against social injustice, such as the
Mexican Revolution. These historical events continue to influence my cultural and familial
mindset, fostering a commitment to advocacy as a means of addressing societal inequalities.
Empathy is a cornerstone of Mexican culture. I often stress the importance of understanding and
empathizing with the struggles of others. This empathetic perspective naturally extends to social
justice and client advocacy, where I would like to work to address the needs and concerns of
marginalized and disadvantaged individuals. In Mexican culture, the family is often seen as a
source of strength and support. I draw upon this belief to advocate for those in need. I view my
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own unity and resilience as examples of how advocacy can lead to positive change. Mexican
families often pay homage to their ancestors, believing that their spirits continue to guide and
protect them (Norget, 2021). This reverence for the past encourages me to engage in advocacy
work that honors the legacy of those who have come before and paves the way for future
generations. Mexican families frequently use cultural traditions, art, and storytelling as vehicles
for advocacy. This can be seen in the colorful murals, traditional music, and the annual Día de
los Muertos celebrations that promote social justice messages and advocacy. I would like to one
day be financially capable of funding such events to spread the beauty of Mexican culture across
the globe. Lastly, the Mexican concept of "solidaridad" (solidarity) promotes the idea that
individuals should stand together to support one another (Panter-Brick, 2021). This principle
motivates me to advocate for others, viewing social justice as a collective responsibility.
Conclusion
In the diverse mosaic of human cultures, my Mexican cultural identity stands as a vibrant
thread, enriching the global tapestry with unique traditions, values, and experiences. I have
discussed the intricate relationship between my Mexican cultural identity and the perception of
other cultures, highlighting the profound influence of my family heritage on my worldview. As I
navigate an increasingly interconnected world, I find recognizing the significance of cultural
identity in shaping my understanding of others to be of great importance. By celebrating the role
of Mexican culture in fostering intercultural understanding, I take a step toward a more inclusive
and harmonious global community. In recognizing the strength and resilience embedded in my
Mexican cultural identity, I acknowledge the importance of preserving and celebrating the
diversity that shapes the world. Ultimately, through the lens of cultural identity, I can gain a
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deeper appreciation for the beauty of cultural differences and the common threads that unite the
world.
Cultural Background 12
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Hanson, A. (2019). 6 Unique Mexican Traditions. • FamilySearch Blog.
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