Hempstead ISD is proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 - October 15. Throughout the month the district will take time to celebrate the rich culture, history, and many contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Claudia Rodriguez, Hempstead ES paraprofessional
What is your favorite tradition?
My favorite Hispanic tradition is the Quinceañera. A quinceañera, often referred to as a “quince,” is a Hispanic celebration that marks a girl’s transition from childhood to womanhood on her 15th birthday. It is a big festivity that involves the quinceañera, her family, and the community.
Claudia Rodriguez is the eldest of five girls in her family, making her the first daughter to celebrate a quince. For Rodriguez, the quinceañera experience is a right of passage and a connection to honor her heritage. Preparations leading up to the big day were some of her favorite memories. Rehearsing the dance routines, the details of the event, and choosing the right dress was something she will never forget. However, the most unforgettable moment of her quince was the father-daughter dance.
“Our dance marked my last dance as a child and my first dance as a young lady,” Rodriguez explained. “It was a moment with my dad that I will treasure forever.”
Beyond the mark of a pivotal moment in a young girl’s life, Rodriguez sees the quinceañera as an integral part of her cultural heritage.
"I am a proud Latina because we are resilient and passionate. We love what we do and we strive to better ourselves with each day. Traditions like this keep us together and serve as a way for our children to stay connected to their ancestors. They give us traditions to pass on for future generations."
Today, quinceañeras have evolved and become more modern, incorporating contemporary elements while keeping the key elements of the traditional celebration. The core values of family, heritage, and the coming-of-age moment remain the same. Rodriguez can’t wait to share this beautiful tradition with her own daughter, who will turn 15 soon.
“I'm excited to pass it on to my daughter and watch her experience the same joy and love that I did."
Traditions like the quinceañera remind us where we come from and where we are going. They strengthen the bonds of family, culture, and community, ensuring that the values and customs continue to thrive for future generations.
Hempstead ISD is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by featuring staff members, students, and campuses on our social media pages. If you are interested in sharing more about your Hispanic/Latino culture, you can participate in our #HempsteadHHM campaign. Please fill out the Hispanic Heritage Month Campaign form to contribute.