Orozco, Emily

    Growing up as a Latina in Southern California I have seen images of La Virgen throughout my entire life. Both of my parents grew up with very religious families. My mother was born Catholic, even attending Catholic schools as a child. My father’s family identifies as Evangelical Christians. One would think that with my parents’ backgrounds so deeply rooted in religion that I would’ve been born a Catholic myself. However, growing up with religious images all around me did not mean that I grew to understand any of it. My family went to church but did not settle on one soul faith, so I’ve been exposed to many beliefs and images. Part of me is grateful that my parents did not force me into a faith, but I also wish I had a deeper religious connection to my family and my culture. 

    So I guess, La Virgen, while present in my life from time to time, never really held as much meaning in comparison to my peers. Personally, the image of the crucifix was the most dominant image in my household. I have met several friends that wear La Virgen on a gold chain, while I have a crucifix. However, I have always thought that the image of La Virgen is beautiful, especially in Churches and on pendants. I don’t know much about her exactly but I love that she is a religious figure that is a woman, when in my experience most are men.