Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is an annual celebration of citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The event commemorates the history, culture and contributions of the Latinx and Hispanic communities.
During the final week of the month-long celebration, University of North Carolina men’s soccer will be spotlighting its players who are part of the Latinx and Hispanic communities while honoring how our diversity makes us stronger – on and off the pitch.
Meet Andres Cardenas
Andres Cardenas is a sophomore midfielder/forward who was born in Miami, Florida. Both his mother, Sandra Chaves, and father, Diego Cardenas, live in Bogotá, Colombia, where they are originally from.
What does Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month mean to you?
The month means honoring our culture and gaining a better understanding of how diverse the Hispanic and Latinx communities really are. It also allows us to educate others about our culture and traditions. It gives us a chance to celebrate our people while knowing there’s still so much more to learn.
Why is it important to celebrate Hispanic/Latinx Heritage month?
The reason we should celebrate this month is to learn about different cultures and traditions. It gives people a chance to embrace being different, but also recognizing that there’s so much that connects us. There’s always more to learn and discover about your own culture and other people’s cultures, too.
In what ways do you celebrate your culture year-round?
There are so many ways we celebrate our culture. Colombia’s Independence Day is different than here in America, for starters. There are lots of festivals where everyone dresses up and gathers in the towns to come together and dance. We have a lot of Colombian food – rice, beans, pork, steak, fried egg, and more.
How do you stay connected to your culture and heritage?
I talk to my parents, who live in Colombia, every day. They try to tell me about what’s going on over there and fill me in. I talk to my relatives who are also back in Colombia nearly every day. My grandparents are always sending me pictures and videos of what’s happening in Colombia.
How has your Hispanic/Latinx upbringing influenced your life?
It has made me who I am. It has influenced my values, especially my positivity. People tend to notice my energy and I surround…
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