Johntu Reed
As the semester ends, my final project for Latinx class has taken on a deeper meaning than just a culinary endeavor. It has become a delicious exploration of Latinidad, incorporating various issues, materials, and topics that we have discussed throughout the course. For my project, I decided to embark on the sweet journey of creating a Tres Leches Cake, which is not only a special cake in my family but also a dessert that represents the complex layers of Latinx identity. This dessert represents the fusion of diverse cultural influences within Latinidad, just like our class discussions on heritage, language, and belonging. Perfecting the texture and flavor of a cake can be a challenging task that requires patience and adaptability, much like overcoming obstacles. As I worked on this project, I couldn’t help but notice the resilience ingrained in Latinx communities. This experience has deepened my understanding of the strength and determination that are a part of Latinx culture, a theme that was frequently discussed in our class. Like the time in class when I had to listen to recordings of a guy’s life moving from Puerto Rico to NYC. In the recording, I listened to he was talking about how back in his homeland he was a very innocent guy, he never drank or smoked, and he was a very nice person. But as soon as he moved to NYC he had to adapt to the culture and the harsh conditions in NYC and turned into the person he never meant to be. When I shared the tres leches cake with others, it had a greater impact on my project. It sparked joy and conversations that highlighted the power of food as a cultural bridge. This experience made me realize the importance of fostering connections and raising awareness about Latinx culture, even through seemingly simple acts like sharing a slice of cake. I am excited to continue exploring and celebrating Latinx culture after completing my tres leches cake project. Our class has ignited my curiosity to delve deeper into various aspects of this diverse culture and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Latinx experience. This final reflection not only encapsulates my culinary journey of making tres leches cake but also reflects my broader exploration of Latinx culture. I draw similarities between the complex layers of challenges faced by Latinx migrants and the intricate layers of the tres leches cake. The three milks soaking into the sponge represent the interplay of historical, political, and economic factors that influence migration patterns. Similarly, Latinx individuals absorb the impacts of policies, politics, and societal attitudes that shape their migration experiences, much like the cake absorbs the milk. Chotiner’s article acted as a catalyst for exploring the motivations behind migration and unraveling the politics, policies, and messaging surrounding the current crisis. I am grateful for the chance to combine my love for cooking with the knowledge gained from our Latinx course. This reflection has been a valuable exercise in connecting theory with practical application, which has helped me gain a deeper understanding of Latinx issues. Thank you for your guidance and support throughout the semester.
Johntu Reed
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