Hi Reader,
Each language in our community is a gift. At World Speaks, learning about the gifts of other cultures and traditions is at the heart of what we do. To keep that spirit going, we asked our team members to share their favorite holiday traditions. Read on to find out what they are – and if you have a favorite tradition, share it with us on Instagram and Facebook!
“For the last two years, we've been doing a big family matching PJ party with my mom's side of the family. This includes aunts, uncles, cousins, and a few friends. Everyone brings a dish to share, and we play games!” Leah Whitney Chavez (Executive Director)
"We combine a few traditions from Chile, the US, and New Zealand. We have our family dinner on Christmas Eve, and during the day we usually enjoy pan de pascua (sweet bread) and cola de mono, a coffee-and-milk cocktail. On Christmas morning, we open presents, have a leftover brunch, and spend time together—often playing board games. Boxing Day (December 26th) is usually a very active day; we like to spend the day out doing different activities (going to the beach, going for a nice walk, ice skating, playing in the snow), depending on where in the world we are.” Paulina Campos Guzman (Programs Manager)
“My parents are from Guadalajara, Jalisco, MX. Every year, on the week of Christmas, we make dozens and dozens of tamales. Once everything is ready and prepped, we form a line to put together the tamales. Everyone chooses a job, and the tamal is passed down the line until it is finally made and added to the rest to be cooked. Eating them freshly made is what we all look forward to every year!” Ivan B Lopez (Interpretation and Linguistic Strategist)
“One of my favorite holiday traditions is picking out a special ornament for each of my kids every year - something that represents who they are or what made the year memorable. They open their ornaments on Christmas Eve and proudly hang them on the tree. We also make 'elf surprise balls' - crepe paper balls filled with surprises like candy, coins, and small trinkets that fall out as you unravel each layer. The kids unwrap them on Christmas Eve too, and it's become one of the moments they look forward to most.” Amber Coleman (Administrative Coordinator)
We are so appreciative for all of you – whether you come to classes, share the joy of language access with others, step up to support us, or are just here to learn – thank you for being here. Because we need language access – and each other – more than ever.
