SWC News Center
From Silence to Strength: Reclaiming My Cultural Identity
By: Rita Montano - May 29, 2025
As a second-generation United States citizen and the first in my family to graduate high school and attend college, I’ve had to navigate unfamiliar systems, advocate for myself, and build a path without a roadmap.
The decision to pursue higher education was both overwhelming and inspiring. I first heard about the Bayan Learning Community while attending a student fair at Southwestern College (SWC)—a program at SWC that provides a space for students to explore the Filipino American experience through linked courses, including Asian American Studies, English Composition, and Personal Development. When I first joined, I initially did not know what to expect.
As one of the only Mexican and Native American students in a space centered around Asian identity, I felt out of place at first. During one class discussion, my peers were sharing personal stories about the strength of their family ties, the value of tradition, and the ways their cultural heritage shaped their sense of self. As I listened, I realized I did not have similar stories to share. I did not grow up in a home where family gatherings were joyful or where culture was passed down intentionally. Instead, silence and independence often filled the spaces where connection might have been. The idea of tradition felt distant—something I observed in others but had not experienced myself.
As I took in this information, I embraced what I was shown and had a deep motivation. Rather than withdrawing, I leaned into the thought of what kind of legacy I wanted to create for myself and how I might build new traditions rooted in resilience and self-discovery.
When I first came across our upcoming project, which asked us to tell a story through cooking with a family member, I panicked. While classmates spoke about plans to interview their grandparents or parents, I was struck by the thought that I did not have anyone I could turn to in the same way. Reflective storytelling felt completely foreign to my family; we rarely talked about our history, traditions, or shared trauma.
Yet, when I shared my concerns with Professor Joseph (“Jojo”) Ruanto-Ramirez, our conversation further opened my eyes. Even if I had not grown up surrounded by what is typically seen as “traditional” culture, Jojo helped me understand that culture is not limited to language, rituals, or holidays. It is also found in the everyday things we do with the people we care about.
I decided to interview my older sister, even though we didn’t have a close relationship at the time. We had been working on rebuilding our bond, and this project felt like an opportunity to take a meaningful step forward. When I asked if she would participate with me, she instantly said yes wanting to support me, especially knowing I felt alone in this. We chose to make tamales; a dish tied to memories of family holidays and extended gatherings.
As we cooked together, I asked what I thought were simple questions: What did you enjoy about those gatherings? And how did they shape your view on family and culture? But those questions led us somewhere unexpected. They brought out emotions we had not shared before along with thoughts we had carried silently for years. Through trust and vulnerability, we found not just answers but uncovered a deeper understanding of each other. It helped us heal in small but meaningful ways, showing us that connection does not always come from what we have lived through together—it can be built through the courage to be seen, the grace to truly listen, and the willingness to show up, fully, in the present.These classes and experiences taught me to embrace my own path without comparing it to others. I learned to value self-awareness, patience, and the importance of trusting my unique process of growth. I also discovered how vital self-compassion is when facing challenges, and
I gained a deeper understanding of my own resilience in the face of setbacks. With professors like Jojo, Crystal Alberto, and Henry Aronson—who went beyond academic guidance to cultivate an inclusive and nurturing space—I felt encouraged to explore my identity, reflect on my experiences, and grow into a more authentic version of myself. I felt supported enough to move beyond my initial sense of disconnection and truly engage with the community around me.
Over time, I have begun to reclaim and reconnect with my cultural identity, gaining a deeper appreciation for the value I bring and learning how to confidently use my voice. To me, culture is rooted in the values we uphold and the meaning we create through our relationships and lived experiences, shaping positive change one person at a time. Bayan reminded me that no matter our background, we can find a sense of belonging and that the journey of self-discovery often unfolds in the most unexpected moments.
Rita Montano is a Psychology major and part of the Bayan Learning Community. She is in the process of selecting a transfer school and is excited to pursue a career that blends her passion for psychology with holistic approaches to health, wellness, and healing.