During this Latino Heritage Month, we celebrate the symbols that remind us where we come from and continue to nourish our roots. One of these is corn, a sacred grain that has sustained and inspired our communities for over 9,000 years.
Originating in the southwest of what is now Mexico, corn became the foundation of life for countless cultures throughout the Americas. Beyond being a vital source of nourishment, it was revered as a sacred gift, representing life, resilience, and harmony with nature. For our ancestors, corn was a symbol of identity, sustenance, community, and gratitude.
Corn continues to represent our communities today. On most tables within the Latino community, dishes made with corn are indispensable—especially during celebrations. Each kernel is seen as a gift from the earth, embodying the cycles of life. Today, organizations such as Native Seeds/SEARCH work tirelessly to preserve these ancestral seeds, ensuring that this legacy endures for future generations.
For me, corn represents my roots, my culture, and the land where I was born. I am a daughter of Mother Earth, just as corn is. I was born and raised in the land of corn, and every time I return, my luggage is filled with tortillas, tlacoyos, tamales, and other corn-based foods. It means bringing a piece of home with me and sharing it with our loved ones who live in this country and have not been able to return home for many years. On every trip, corn accompanies me, and my most treasured family memories revolve around it and the moments we created together. Corn nourishes not only our bodies but also our minds, our hearts, and our spirits.
The Los Angeles Public Library hosts events such as Los Angeles Libros Festival and, in other months, Indie-Pendent Voices: A Celebration of Authors and Zines, Día de los Muertos, among others. These spaces allow us to find inspiration, reconnect, embrace our roots, and proudly celebrate our culture.
May the legacy of corn inspire us: a story of resilience, abundance, and interconnection that reminds us of the power of our roots and our cultural heritage.
Explore more about the cultural and historical significance of corn through these reading suggestions available at the Los Angeles Public Library.
Recommended Reading
