Interview with Second Generation from Union City
From The Peopling of NYC
Interview with: Manny Sanchez
The second generation of any ethnic enclave and race has its own distinct characteristics and qualities. Union City in the 70’s and 80’s served as a trademark of Cuban culture, serving as a welcome ground for thousands of Cuban immigrants and refugees to settle and eventually assimilate into American culture. The second generation Cubans that grew up Union City without a doubt had a distinct experience, maturing in a place full of culture and foundations of value and virtue.
I asked Sanchez, who was born and raised in Union City and is second generation Cuban, the following questions.
1. JS: What three words or traits would you give to describe your childhood experience in Union City. MS: 1. Close community feelings 2. Drive (professionally) 3. Strong religious beliefs
2. JS: Are there any places in Union City that are meaningful or significant to you? MS: Mostly the parks around the neighborhood, since that’s where I spent most of my time with my friends. Also, the waterfront area, and Boulevard East.
3. JS: Do you think that the Cuban second generation is distinct in any way? Do you feel more attached to Cuban or American culture? MS: There is a great value of education and hard work that is instilled in the Cuban second generation. Much of this has to do with the fact that a large portion of the first generation is professionals, ranging anywhere from politicians to professors. That ideology of motivation and dedication toward education is strongly encouraged for the second generation Cubans by their parents and first generation relatives. I feel more involved with American culture since I was raised and currently reside in New Jersey.
4. JS: Has Union City ever truly been fully Cuban? In what sense? MS: Until the mid-80’s, the area was a unique blend of Cuban and American culture. It was never fully Cuban, nor fully American. There was a strong Cuban flavor to the neighborhood. Almost each person was a part of the overall Cuban community in Union City, and was willing to help others when needed, usually with day-to-day problems and issues.
5. JS: How has Union City changed since you where a child in the late 70’s? MS: It has definitely turned into an area that is a mix of Latin American cultures, and is not predominantly Cuban. You will see more of a variety of cultures, people, and communities in Union City these days.
6. JS: Do you think if you grew up anywhere else that your ethnic identity would be significantly different? MS: Growing up in Union City definitely exposed me to a huge Cuban community and culture in general. I probably wouldn’t know as much about my culture, customs and heritage if I didn’t grow up in an area that at the time was so deeply involved with the Cuban background and values.
7. JS: Has growing up in Union City affected any life choices you have made? MS: I think growing up where I did makes me appreciate and see things from different angles. I also feel that living next to an area like New York City exposes to you a lot and opens up your mind to so many possibilities and lessons.
Interview Reenactment
