Cultura
The Latino Center of the Midlands is a place where being Latino, Latina, or Latinx is celebrated. We’re a community center where culture thrives; a place where the door is open to everyone. Our community comes from many different countries and we created this page to celebrate that diversity.
Cultural Spotlight
I was born in El Paso, Texas, and my family is from Mexico. Traditions and celebrations, especially religious holidays, are a central part of my culture. Every year on June 29th, my mom’s rancho hosts a massive party with live music, fireworks, and plenty of bailes! The spirit of togetherness is also present in our family—whether it’s a quinceañera or a wedding, everyone pitches in. And, of course, no celebration is complete without food! Mexican cuisine offers a diverse range of flavors, with each region adding its own twist. For example, tamales can be wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and stuffed with savory or sweet flavors. Regardless of the method, the best tamales always come from my Abuelita Angelica!
Manuel Vasquez
GED Instructor
Sayings and Slang
Más apretado que mano de guagua – Tighter than a baby’s grip (Chile)
Used to describe cheapskates that do not like to spend their money.
Camarón que se duerme se lo lleva la corriente – A shrimp that falls asleep is carried away by the current. (Venenzuela)
This serves as a reminder to stay proactive and seize opportunities, as carelessness could lead to missing them.
Chivear – Play (Bolivia)
Means to play.
Pushar – Push (Spanglish)
Most of our staff are bilingual, and at our office, you’ll hear a variety of Spanglish words. The correct word in Spanish is Empujar.
Debes de pushar la puerta para salir afuera.
You need to push the door to go outside.
Trailblazer
Sophie Cruz | Immigration Activist
In 2015, Sophie Cruz, one of the world’s youngest activists, began advocating for immigration reform at five years old. She captured national attention when she handed a letter to the Pope, requesting his help in advocating for immigrant families. Her heartfelt plea—“Don’t forget about us, the children”—compelled the Pope to address an immigration reform with Congress. Two years later, Sophie stood before tens of thousands at the Women’s March in Washington, D.C., delivering a powerful bilingual speech on love, unity, and the fight to keep families together. Her courage and determination have made her a voice for millions, proving that even the youngest among us can inspire lasting change.
