I was born in America and so were my parents; however, both of my parents are Italian. My mom’s dad was born in Italy and spoke Italian as a first language. He was the first of his family to move to America. My dad’s father was also Italian, though he was born and raised in the United States. Because of their fathers, my parents experienced Italian culture while they were growing up. For example, they both had relatives who would speak Italian around them and cook traditional Italian food. Though they were both surrounded by the culture their entire lives, neither of them ever truly adapted it as their own, and as a result I have always felt very out of touch with my Italian heritage. The one thing that helps me feel connected to that part of my heritage is the Italian food that my mom makes from recipes that her father passed down to her. Every time I eat that food, or just any Italian food in general, I am reminded of the fact that it is part of my heritage, and I can’t help but want to learn about and experience more of it. I hope to learn more about my Italian heritage and maybe one day even visit my distant relatives who live in Italy.

– CS.

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