In the vibrant heart of Miami, Latinos make the city buzz with life. From the lively streets of Little Havana to the colorful vibe of Wynwood, their impact is everywhere. Salsa music and delicious Latino flavors fill the air, creating a unique blend that defines Miami’s character.
Over time people from Cuba, Venezuela, Columbia, Spain, and Hispanics from other Latin American countries, among them Colombia, Argentina, and Peru, migrated to Miami. Over the years, some native Miamians have been concerned with the waves of immigration, yet, honestly, Miami most likely wouldn’t be the Miami without this influx. Latinos have made an impact on Miami in many ways with their music, food, economy, and more, shaping the city’s vibrant and diverse identity.
“I am from Brazil and don’t get me wrong; I love Brazil and it is different than Miami, but I love Miami and there is so much diversity that it never gets boring. It’s very different from other cities. Also, I love how Miami incorporates Hispanic countries with the food and music. If I want Brazilian food, I can find it, but I also could find Venezuelan food and when going out, the music a lot of the time is Hispanic which I enjoy,” said senior Camilla Souza.
“I am from Miami and I am pretty gringo so sometimes I have a hard time speaking to Hispanics. Much of Miami has been taken over with Latinos, but honestly I love Hispanic food and their music. I think without Latinos in Miami it would be pretty basic and boring. I feel like they add spice to a lot of things, literally and metaphorically.”
— senior Nicholas Dominguez.
With that being said, Latinos are extremely important to Miami’s cultural diversity, economic growth, and social dynamics, which shape the city’s identity. When it comes to Latinos and their influence, it’s more than just commerce, it is a community effort that turns Miami into the thriving city it is.
“When choosing a high school to go to, I wanted somewhere that was unique and diverse, but I did not want to go to a public school since I always went to a private Catholic school and when I had just read ‘Immaculata’ and had heard about the food plus a few people that I knew who were going were also Hispanic, I immediately knew that I wanted to go here,” said senior Estefania BouAssaf.
In schools, Latino students bring diversity and fresh perspectives. Here at ILS, most students who attend are Latino or have a Hispanic background which gives the school diversity and some character. Along with this, the school incorporates foods from different countries. For example, one day there will be Cuban food, but the following day the cafeteria will serve a typical Nicaraguan dish.
Overall, Latinos are an important part of the cultural diversity of Miami. They impact all areas of city life, ranging from the food we eat to the music we enjoy. Miami thrives because of its Latino residents who contribute to its vibrant and dynamic identity. They make the city more diverse and interesting, making it a special and unique place to call home.
