Hispanic Heritage Month :: Juliana Santos Bastien
Ladybirds
9/15/2022
Juliana performing at the 2022 NDA Collegiate National Championship. Photo Credit: Andrew Dean, Xtreme Shots Photo
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Hispanic / Latinx Heritage Month is a great opportunity to celebrate and learn about all the diverse cultures and backgrounds of people, like me, who are so proud to be a part of it. Having this month to recognize the achievements and impacts these cultures have had, in addition to celebrating the independence of countries, like Brazil, is what I love most.
What does it mean to you to be Hispanic/Latinx?
Being Latinx to me means admiring and loving my Brazilian background. I would not be the person I am today without my cultural background. Recognizing the impact it has had on me is part of what makes this month special. Living in Brazil, speaking Portuguese, celebrating holidays/festivals, and having my huge, loving family there, have all had an impact on me. Embracing a culture that is unheard of in southern KY, that no one could relate to or imagine going to, was difficult; however, it meant holding on tight to my family and being proud of our background is even more important.
What is unique about your culture?
Brazilian culture is known for its welcoming and genuine people. Being close with family, friends, and neighbors is normal. Bringing over hot tea late at night to a neighbor when they aren't feeling good, inviting everyone to parties and barbeques (churrascos), and taking the time to greet every person individually is normal; and welcomed! Brazilians are welcoming, loving, and passionate!
Why are you proud to be Brazilian?
I am proud to be Brazilian, it's who I am. I have learned so much and experienced things that some people may not be able to understand, but I am proud of where it has led me and how it’s influenced my worldly perspective. The culture, food, way of life, and values are things that I will carry on forever. Brazilians live their lives to the fullest, no matter what state of life they are in. Every culture is different, yet being exposed to two different cultures my entire life has taught me many life lessons and pushed me to be the person I am today.
In what ways do you celebrate your heritage?
Celebrating my background can come in many forms: Eating Brazilian food, listening to Brazilian music, celebrating holidays & festivals like São João or Carnaval, supporting Brazilian sports teams, and always showing off my country!
How have you used your platform as a student-athlete to advocate for equal representation for the Hispanic community?
Being in Los Cardenales has been such an amazing platform as a student-athlete because it allows me to have a voice for myself and others to advocate for equal representation for the Hispanic/Latinx community.
How has Los Cardenales impacted you & your life at UofL?
It has allowed me to have a Latinx community within athletics that I did not have before. Being able to be surrounded by these individuals has made me much more comfortable at UofL and made me feel part of a community.
