The Notre Dame community is made up of talented individuals, all with various backgrounds and experiences. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 - October 15, we learned a little bit about Rita Gutierrez, room attendant at Morris Inn, and how her heritage shapes her daily life, both personally and professionally.
How long have you worked at Notre Dame and what is your favorite part about working here?
I have been working at Notre Dame for 3 years. My favorite part of working here is the human warmth and the feeling of being with family.
Can you share a little about your experience growing up within the Hispanic community?
Growing up in the Hispanic community is part of our DNA. Here at the Morris Inn, I have always felt that being Hispanic is a positive addition to my daily work.
What are some ways you honor your heritage in your daily life?
Speaking our language is a perfect way to honor the great work our parents did to shape us. Food is another wonderful way to speak about our Latinx roots and cultural learning.
Is there a particular cultural dish, music, or tradition that is particularly meaningful to you?
As a Venezuelan, I feel very proud of our culture. One dish is the Saucer- The Creole Pavilion, also known as pabellón criollo, which is the Venezuelan national dish, usually made up of shredded beef, black beans, white rice, and fried plantains. I enjoy the music of Ilan Chester, Venezuelan singer-songwriter. One of my favorite traditions that is meaningful to me is cooking our typical Christmas dish, hallacas, as a family. Hallacas usually consist of a savory stew of meats, vegetables, olives, and other ingredients, wrapped in a cornmeal dough and steamed in banana leaves.
Can you tell me about a specific Hispanic or Latino individual who inspires you and why?
This question brings to mind Dr. Santiago Schnell, a brilliant Venezuelan scientist who graduated from Simón Bolívar University in Caracas and is currently the Provost of a prestigious university in the United States. It inspires and makes me proud to see that throughout his path to success, he hasn't forgotten his roots and is always proud to mention them in interviews.
October is Hispanic Heritage Month, what are you most proud of about your culture?
Patriotism for my country- that special and indescribable connection that makes you tied to your roots and the place where you were born.