Nature

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        At Cal State University of Northridge, college students were given an opportunity to experience what it would be like to be roaming around locations where Central Americans are populated. One of the locations we visited was this popular Guatemalan supermarket called “La Tapachulteca.” This market was built in 1955 and designed by an architect named, Culver Heaton. Before the market was built, it used to be a Savings and Loans bank that served for the community of Van Nuys. The bank was very populated, but it was time for a new change. The market was a representation of a new beginning for Van Nuys. Heaton had a goal for the building, which was for it to express modernity and enlightenment in community and express sense of culture. The market was built in an area surrounded by other grocery stores and small shops. Not only that, but there were food stands that sold bacon wrapped hot dogs, tacos, fruit and “raspados.” The environment of where the market is located gave off reminiscing feelings to different cultured individuals. Despite the dirty streets filled with trash surrounding La Tapachulteca, it still does not beat the cultural style inside the market. Many Central Americans would consider this a home, where one would feel at place.

        When our group went inside the market, we saw a huge line to get bread at the “Panaderia.” Many families go there to have breakfast in the morning and to enjoy the existence of the market. As we walked through the aisles, I noticed that there was a Mexican, Guatemalan and Salvadoran flag hung up in each of the aisle. I am Latina, and my parents were born and raised in Peru. Coming from a Peruvian culture, I never saw many flags or any type of celebration that related to Peru. Observing those flags certainly was not a new feeling, instead it was reminiscing feeling, because I did not see a familiar flag; I felt excluded a feeling I am not unfamiliar with, because I have always lived in Los Angeles. Additionally, I did not recognize any of the food or products that were there, except my only favorite, Tamarindo flavored Jarrito. The drink that was made in Mexico has been the one drink that got me through my childhood.

       

The experience of exploring inside of the market was very mind opening of the cultural environment inside the market.

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