America is a land shaped by immigrants, people from all corners of the world who bring their traditions, languages, and cultures while embracing a new life. But culture is not just something we inherit and admire, its a responsibility. It is something we must live, protect, and pass on. Like a torch in a relay race, handed from one runner to the next, our cultural leagacy must be preserved and shared. Our traditions, langauge, music, and way of life are gifts from those who came before us. If we do not nurture and uphold them, they can fade, leaving future generations without the roots that have shaped who we are.

Carrying Aruba with us, Wherever we Are

For those of us living aboard, like myself in N.Y, this responsiblity is even greater. Distance from home does not weaken our connection to Aruba, it strengthens it. The futher we are from our island, the more we must carry it with us, not just in our hearts, but in how we lead, how we represent ourselves, and how we ensure that Aruba’s culture thrives beyond its shores.

In the U.S it is inspiring to see communities honor thier heritage while embracing their American identity. Italians celebrate with granduer their feasts, the Irish with their parades, and the Chinese with Lunar New Years festivities. No matter where you turn, people take pride in where they come from. As an Aruban living in the U.S, I often ask myself, How do we fit in this rich cultural fabric? Aruba may be small, but our culture is vast, vibrant and unique. We too bring our traditions with us. We carry the rhythm of our island, the kindess of our “cordialidad”, the beauty of our langugage, and the deep pride of our Himno y Bandera, (our national anthem and flag), which to many, represents more than a place on a map.

It’s Up to Us to Keep Culture Alive

Right now, Aruba is in the midst of Carnival season, our most vibrant celebration of music and community. The streets are alive with color and the sounds of tumba and calypso. But Carnival is just one piece of our rich cultural tapestry. Our traditions span generations, from Dande, where muscial groups bring blessings and prosperity from house to house on New Years, to Dera Gai, a festival honoring our roots. And then my personal favorite, March 18, a day of national pride, where we celerbate our flag, anthem and status aparte, Aruba’s independent status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Our Status Aparte was more than a political achievement, it was a cultural affirmation. Betico Croes understood that Aruba’s strength lies in its people, traditioonal and values.

Two Flags, One Heart

In the U.S, the American flag is revered, proudly displayed on homes, raised high at sporting events, and hornored through the Pledge of Allegiance. For us, the Aruban flag holds just as much meaning. Himno y Bandera is not just a holiday, its a moment of reflection, a day to take pride in what sets us apart.  We don’t choose between being Aruban and embracing life in the U.S, we can hold both identities with pride. Like every other community in America, we have the responisbility to keep our heritage alive while thriving in this new land.

Cordialidad, The Heart of Our Identity

If there is one quality that truly defines us as Arubans, it is cordialidad, our deep rooted hospitality, kindess and warmth. It is the way we open our homes to friends, the smiles we share of a  “Bon Dia”, they way we we welcome others with open hearts. It is in the way we treat people, how we work together, and how we lead with integrity and respect.  Our national anthem proudly declares ” Grandeza di bo pueblo ta su gran corrdialidad, cu Dios por guia y conserva su amor pa libertad!”. These are not just lyrics, they are a declaration of who we are.  Our cordialidad has made Aruba one of the most welcoming destinations in the world, and it is what makes us Arubans stand out whereever we go. Whether in Aruba or aborad, we must uphold this value in how we lead, build community and represent our usland with pride and smarts.

The Legacy We Cary Forward

Culture does not survive on its own, it thrives becuase we choose to keep it alive.  It lives on when we speak Papiamento, pass down traditions, support Aruban artisit, and embody the spirit of cordialidad in our daily lives.So, I ask,

How are you supporting your culture?

Thank you for reading until the end, Ayerim

Ayerim Maduro is an award-winning destination marketer, multi-passionate creative entrepreneur, proud wife, and working mom of young adults, pursuing her dreams and passion for writing by sharing thoughtful advice and positive inspiration for everyday life.  For more ABOUT ME or related content you will find on Ayri Vibes my blog. These are a series of writings on topics I’m passionate about.  Such as my specialty in travel, tourism, & hospitality and sharing my expertise in digital marketing.  I also write about life experiences, uncovering one’s passion and purpose, and our family’s unique lifestyle.    Any, and all views, or opinions, expressed in this blog, are solely my own and do not represent the views or opinions of those people, institutions, or organizations that I may or may not be associated with in a professional or personal capacity unless explicitly stated.