Our Multiracial Family Is Wholesome, Too

Giving birth to my daughter was like giving birth to a new identity. The magnitude of motherhood often overwhelmed me, and in no small part was that due to the fact that we are a multiracial family. As a Latina mom, with a cultural heritage to pass on, I wondered if our white-or-black world would accept my mixed children as such. Would our society avoid seeing the Latino in my children – the me in them – because of their beautiful dark skin? Would they be ignored in the societal Latino conversation, much like Afro-Latinos tend to be, because they don’t “look Latino”? In truth, I wondered many things and started De Su Mama to help document our journey in identity and family legacy.

Now, nearly 5 years into my motherhood journey, I care so much less about how others define us. Actually, nowadays, I care more that they just see us. Everyday, I try to remember how important it is for multiracial families to project the values we hold dear to our hearts – whatever those values might be. It’s so important for those of us raising multiracial children to help others understand who we are, and thus who our children are being raised to be. And for us, for my family, I want others to see a wholesome family. Multiracial families are good people! We’re raising great kids, with morals and standards, and we’re wholesome, too.

I’m excited to partner with Honey Maid, not simply because we love Honey Maid’s Teddy Graham cookies and nostalgic Graham Crackers, but because of their mainstream projection of what “wholesome” is. Have you seen the Honey Maid #ThisIsWholesome videos? They’re inspiring! I especially love the newest one depicting blended families and the challenges we face from a little boy’s perspective. Every time I watch them, my eyes fill with the hope of what my children’s futures can be. Is it possible that our world can see the wholesome love that my husband and I created when our family was born?

Yes, my kids love the sweet bites of Teddy Grahams that fit so perfectly in their fingertips. We buy all the flavors – mixed berry, chocolate, or classic honey – and mix them up or act out scenes just for fun. Like so many families did this summer, we sat around the fire and made s’mores with Graham Crackers and our closest friends. And recently, as an after school snack, I top my girl’s favorite cracker with a wholesome almond butter spread and fresh fruit. She needs fuel after an active day at pre-k! But as the mother to multiracial children, I am humbled by Honey Maid’s vision. I’m hopeful that, while my family looks different, what makes us wholesome is exactly the same as it’s always been.