Discovering My Heritage: A Personal Journey of Connection
Heritage is more than just a collection of family stories; it is a tapestry woven from the experiences, values, and traditions passed down through generations. As a history enthusiast and the descendant of immigrants, I have had the privilege of exploring the many faceted layers of my cultural heritage. My story is a journey of discovery, identity, and connection to the past that continues to evolve with every new piece of knowledge I uncover.
Understanding Heritage
Heritage is a complex interplay of memories, traumas, lessons, and achievements that form the essence of who we are. It is a personal creation, a fabric that we weave into our identities. For some, heritage is a source of pride, a connection to a culture they practice and uphold. However, for others, it may be a memory best left behind, as they choose to assimilate and move forward. It is not always a straightforward journey, and people can have a mix of both.
My Family's Heritage
My mother is the daughter of Chilean immigrants, descendants of Andalusian, Basque, and Sephardic-Jewish families. My father's father was the son of a German immigrant, and his maternal side includes French and Irish ancestry, while his mother is of entirely Polish descent. This rich tapestry of ancestry shapes not only who I am but also the stories and traditions I carry within me.
Formative Experiences
Growing up in a Jersey Shore suburb, I was immersed in a world of 'white ethnics'—Irish, Italian, Polish, and German families. While these influences inevitably colored my upbringing, my immediate exposure to Latin American culture came from my bilingual grandparents. Their influence on my personal heritage was significant, as I frequently enjoyed empanadas, choripan sausages, and Condorito comics.
My parents' family, despite some culinary influences, was thoroughly assimilated, which made me feel a deeper connection to my Chilean heritage. Moving to London for graduate school was a pivotal moment, where I interacted with Spaniards, Germans, and French, and began to explore my cultural heritage in detail. This led to a deeper understanding of my family's stories, including a surprising discovery of a Civil War veteran in my Irish lineage.
The Importance of Cultural Connection
Heritage is not just about celebrating past achievements or ancestral roots; it is about understanding the unique experiences that have shaped us. For me, the waltz of Si vas para Chile evokes joy and a sense of home, especially as my immigrant grandparents continue to enrich my life. Oktoberfest, with its Bavarian spirit, has taken on new meaning, reminding me of my Polish and Eastern European roots.
The love for Paris, its food, and history, as well as Civil War history, has grown stronger as I delved into my French and Irish roots. These connections not only enrich my personal identity but also deepen my appreciation for the lives of my ancestors. My great-great-great-grandfather, Adam Hennessey, Company D, 4th USA Artillery, adds a profoundly personal touch to my Civil War fascination.
A Dynamic Identity
While my blood has remained constant, my heritage has evolved with every new discovery and every visit to my ancestral homelands. Exploring France, Ireland, and learning more about the worlds and cultures my ancestors inhabited has provided a profound understanding of my roots. For me, the best way to connect with heritage is to learn about the situations that led my family to make crucial decisions, ultimately resulting in my birth.
Heritage is not just about flags and multi-hyphenated identities; it is about the personal and emotional connection we make to our past. It is about valuing and honoring the stories our ancestors left behind, and using them to enrich our own lives.
Conclusion: Heritage is a continuous journey of discovery and connection. For me, it is about embracing the unique blend of cultures and experiences that make me who I am.