Katie Schmitz
Katie Schmitz
Assimilation and Rediscovery: Reconnecting with Lost Culture
This animated short story explores the complex emotions of reconnecting with a lost cultural identity. I am half Puerto Rican, but the Spanish language and Puerto Rican traditions were not passed down to me, as my grandparents prioritized English proficiency and assimilation for their children. While I visibly appear Puerto Rican, I have struggled with feelings of disconnection throughout my life when unable to engage with others who assume I have a strong cultural bond. In my senior year of college, I have worked to learn Spanish, understand Puerto Rican traditions, and find a sense of belonging within my heritage. While this journey has strengthened my connection to family and the broader Latino community, I still struggle with feelings of loss and displacement. My animated thesis project tells the story of a character struggling to reconnect with a heritage that was not passed down to them, highlighting the emotional challenges and personal growth involved in rediscovering one’s cultural identity.
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