Laurie Hernandez's Latina Culture Taught Her the 'True Meaning of Courage'

Laurie Hernandez's Latina Culture Taught Her the 'True Meaning of Courage'

Laurie Hernandez was the first United States-born Latina to compete in gymnastics at the Olympics in over 30 years — and in an open letter, she talks how her heritage influenced her success.

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“Our culture involved music in Spanish, hilarious dancing, and incredible food,” she wrote for PopSugar. “From Marc Anthony to El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, we would sing their songs as loud as we could and dance as much as we wanted.”

“Growing up with music in the house inspired me to express myself through my gymnastics floor routines and eventually on Dancing With the Stars,” she continued.

“Grounded in my culture, I found the true meaning of courage and determination, which guided my way through the sport of gymnastics. These skills helped light my path to the Olympics and inspire little girls watching me to try something new.”

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Posted to: Laurie Hernandez