Rafael Valadez was born in Los Angeles CA. His parents, both native Mexican, came to the States as children, whereby he wholly identifies himself as a Mexican-American. But he will be the first to shout out that “…oh yes, we LOVE our Dodgers…the entire family LOVES our Dodgers!!!”
Reflecting on how he was raised, Rafael feels that he is the reflection of a strong work ethic instilled in him by his parents “…and they are an exact reflection of their parents who also were very hard workers. We were, and are, dedicated to our jobs and to providing for our loved ones, as reflected in our daily efforts and commitment to family…and we are directly tied to supporting one another.”
Rafael maintains his ethnic identity, stating that “…all that I am and do is rooted around my family’s strength and pride in where we came from. I have siblings and cousins that play various instruments including myself. My Grandparents and even Great Grandparents on both sides of my family were musicians. Some played or sang in Mariachis and Banda groups. Although I’ve never played in a Mariachi or Banda myself, I like to believe that my heavy interest in playing instruments and music stems from my roots. I have been playing drums and guitar since I was around 14 years old.”
Family gatherings happen often, as Rafael and his family celebrates “…everything! Whether it’s a birthday, a commemorative American or Mexican holiday, even individual accomplishments…we gather to rejoice as a family unit…with a traditional Mexican spread every time.” Some of his family’s most common, and most enjoyed, dishes include tamales, pozole, chile relleno and menudo. Pozole and Tamales are two (2) of the most commonly cooked dishes for his family parties and celebrations, especially when using his grandmothers’ recipes, always everyone’s a favorite.
But in his reminiscing, Rafael shared stories of making homemade chile as long-standing tradition in his family, made from home grown chiles “…that were planted in a little garden at my grandfather’s house.”
To Rafael, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor Hispanic history, heritage, and contributions made to the United States by the Hispanic and LatinX cultures. To him, “…it is a time to reflect on my background and my roots.” Rafael went on as he recalled a childhood memory, “…learning about Mexican Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo in school as I was growing up. It was celebrated with traditional dances, music and outfits. I remember participating in a Cinco de Mayo Parade as a child in school. Perhaps another parade is in his near future? Take pride in all that you are, and Rafael, we are proud of your accomplishments with your TMG family.
