In many Hispanic and Mexican-American communities, there’s a growing phenomenon known as “No Sabo” kids. This term is often used to describe children of Hispanic heredity who either do not speak Spanish fluently or at all. The phrase “No Sabo” itself is a playful yet incorrect conjugation of “No sé,” which means “I don’t know” in Spanish. Unfortunately, for many of these kids, the term carries a heavy burden of judgment and exclusion.
“I personally think the term is unfair because some families come to this country and truly believe that it will benefit their children more if they only know english, since it is the main language here,” senior Annette Fuerte said. “It’s easy to make fun of someone for not knowing their native language, but the truth is that sometimes it wasn’t their choice.”
The rise of “No Sabo” kids can be attributed to several factors, including assimilation into American culture and the prioritization of English in both educational and social settings. Many Hispanic parents, often immigrants themselves, emphasize the importance of English to ensure their children’s success in the United States. As a result, Spanish sometimes takes a backseat, leading to a generational language gap.
“Some kids grow up with parents who don’t really acknowledge the importance of their blood,” senior Joanna Galvan said. “So they don’t teach their kids to speak spanish.”
“No Sabo” kids often find themselves caught between two worlds. On one hand, they may face criticism from their peers and even family members for not speaking Spanish. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a sense of not fully belonging to their cultural heritage. On the other hand, they may also struggle to fit into the broader American society, where their ethnic background sets them apart.
“I have been judged for not speaking spanish, it makes me feel a little left out whenever my family or my friends speak it around me and I don’t understand a few words,” junior Victoria Medina said. “I handle it by trying to learn it myself by constantly listening to songs in Spanish and taking additional Spanish courses.”
Despite these challenges, many “No Sabo” kids are finding ways to embrace their unique identity. Some are taking Spanish classes to reconnect with their roots, while others are using social media to share their experiences and create supportive communities. The key is to understand that language is just one aspect of cultural identity. Being Hispanic or Mexican-American is about more than just speaking Spanish; it’s about embracing the rich traditions, values, and history that come with it.
“The saying definitely hurts the Hispanic community because there might be kids who grew up with their parents not teaching them Spanish or Spanish being their first language,” junior Alondra Ortiz said. “Once they try to learn Spanish instead of people correcting and helping they get made fun of and this discourages them from practicing and the fear of speaking to others.”
In conclusion, the journey of “No Sabo” kids is complex and multifaceted. While they may face criticism for their lack of Spanish fluency, it’s essential to recognize and celebrate their efforts to navigate and reconcile their dual identities. By fostering a more inclusive environment, everyone can help these kids feel proud of who they are, regardless of the language they speak.
“Everyone has their own unique experiences and ways of identifying themselves, and that’s what makes each person interesting,” senior Moises Olivares said. “It’s all about understanding and respecting each other’s perspectives.”
