Soy Boricua!
Hi Loves,
Ok, this is a blog post that probably will ruffle some feathers and honestly was something I went back and forth with even writing. If you have followed me for a while, you know that my posts are pretty much about fashion, home decor, and my lifestyle, but as of late, I have had this urge to speak on things that move me, so here we are.
This year I went back to my country Puerto Rico, the island I was born in, and I love like no other. Having been born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, I have always had the urge to know more about my ancestry. I think my curiosity came primarily due to having so many cousins that looked so different and had every skin complexion you can think of. Not much was spoken about our history as Puerto Ricans when we were children, well, that was unless any of us asked. Don't get me wrong; the culture, music, and love were shown to us, but the actual history and sacrifices of our people were not. I do remember being told I look Taino, not knowing what that meant until I was older. Reality is many will argue about our history and the makeup of the Puerto Rican people.
Because I have always had questions about my roots, I took a DNA test to find out what I already knew, and that was my highest percentage of ancestry was Native American. More than ever, the conversations about how one identifies themselves has sparked many to dive into their journeys of self-discovery of who they are. As a Puerto Rican, one can identify with bloodlines and culture through a mixing of the Spanish, African, indigenous Taíno and Carib Indian races that shared the island. As a Puerto Rican woman, I don't identify with just one of these and have always said I am a mix of everything because I am Puerto Rican.
I have been to Puerto Rico plenty of times, but this time around. I went around the island and was just in awe just looking at the beauty, I realized that I'm home, the feeling is indescribable. During my visit to Puerto Rico, I thought about the history and all the people who originally inhabitant the island. I thought about the slaves that were brought in and couldn't help think that the strength and bravery of my people have never changed throughout history. I love that my people are fighters! The men and women that still live in Puerto Rican love the island to their core. As many of you saw, after Hurricane Maria and even the political woes they are still going through today, the people have shown their resilience.I'm still on a journey of learning about the history of Puerto Rico and the Taino's, but there is one thing I can say with all my heart is that I am very proud to be Boricua! I hope that if you are reading this , it motivates you to learn more about your ancestry and give you answers to who you are.
Before I end this, I do want to make sure anyone who is reading this knows that I am fully aware that women in Native American tribes do not wear headdresses; they are earned and a sign of bravery. I chose it as more of a symbol of the courage of the Taino people. These images were not to offend at all, and as I learn more, maybe one day, I can wear the true garment of the Tainos.
Peace & Love,
Lissette