You can answer with as much detail or information. I am going to share what I learn with the students at my college who work with the Latino community but sadly, do not know very much about the culture. I feel that there is an unfair stereotype of Mexicans that exist in my community and my project’s purpose is to share real stories to break these stereotypes. Please take this as an opportunity to represent your community and share your views, opinions, stories, etc. with people who are genuinely interested in listening and learning. And definitely feel free to skip any question that you feel uncomfortable answering.

I am going to present it as my personal reflection of all the stories that I have gathered from my conversations. Everyone has been so kind and helpful so far and I have learned so much. My e-mail address is dearsewon@yahoo.com. Thank you so much!

1. Background: Where were you born? Where have you lived and where do you live now? Did you immigrate or did your parents/extended family? How does your ethnic identity impact your life?
2. America: What is your view of America as a country? What do Mexicans think of America? What do Americans think of Mexicans and Mexican Americans? What do you think about the values of freedom and equality?
3. Language: Growing up, did you ever experience language barriers? What was your first language? Did you have to learn English and was it difficult? Are your parents fluent in English? What language do you speak at home? Is there ever a conflict in your home because of language? If you have your own children would like to continue speaking Spanish? Is the language important to you?
4. Discrimination: Have you ever experienced discrimination because of your ethnic background? What are some stereotypes that you have encountered? What do you think about them? Why do you think these exist? How do you respond to these stereotypes? Do they impact your life and identity? How could we break these stereotypes?
5. Cultural conflict: Do you notice a cultural gap between Mexicans in Mexico and Mexicans who live here? Was there ever a conflict between you and your parents because of cultural differences? Do you keep in touch with people in Mexico and do you notice the differences? What stays the same even after years of immigration and living abroad?
6. Latino identity: What and who is Latino? What is the Latino American community like? Is there a gap between Latinos who have lived in the U.S. for a long time and newly arrived immigrants? How do you feel about Latino Americans who do not recognize their heritage? Do you see Latinos who identify more with Anglo-Americans and leave behind their heritage? Why do you think this happens? Is it easier to identify as an American or is it easier to keep a strong Latino identity?
7. Immigration: What are your thoughts on immigration? Why do you think so many Latino immigrants go through hard times? Do you think they feel disconnected from their communities? What can be done to help them? Do you think immigration is positive?
8. Money: In Mexico, I home-stayed with a wealthy family in Mexico. My Mexican friends explained that I was living with “fresas.” When I asked my host-family about immigrants, they explained that most American immigrants were “nacos” and that there was a minority of educated immigrants (like their daughter and sister) who go abroad for their professions. My host mom said that her educated daughter and sister were totally different from the “construction workers and farmers.” Why do you think my host family think this way? What are your thoughts on this type of attitude? Why do you think these stereotypes exist? Does a similar type of social class distinctions exist in Mexican American communities? Or do you see every Latino of all backgrounds and heritages become grouped together in one identity? How do you feel about that?
9. Other cultures: How is the relationship between different Latino cultures? Is there racism or discrimination between people from specific countries or backgrounds? What are some different groups or stereotypes that you see? What are the core differences and similarities? How do you feel about being lumped together?
10. Your culture: What do you think is the most beautiful aspect of your heritage and culture? What do you find disagreeable and would like to change? What about your culture would you like to share with students who know very little about it?
11. Difference: When I was in Mexico, I was overwhelmed when I saw all the beautiful Mexican dances, crafts, clothing, food, music, etc. I loved the art, the colors, the folkloric dances, and all the awesome lively fiestas. I asked my Mexican teacher and she said that Mexican American youth are embarrassed by traditional Mexican culture and that they only wanted to listen to reggaeton or become just like gringos (my teacher was a woman with strong opinions on everything). What do you think about this? Why?
12. Future: Would you work to pass on your heritage to your future generations? What do you think will be their challenges? What do you hope will change for them? What would you do to help them continue on traditions and heritage and deal with the existing negative stereotypes?
13. Advice: Are there any advices you would like to give to American students who work for the Latino community?
14. Etc.: Is there anything else you would like to share?