The uploaded video shows the meaning of this Latino tradition called the Quinceañera. The young woman, Destiny Rodriguez, in the video speaks of her plans to change after turning 15. She says she will become more lady like. She will have different responsibilities. She has made plans for herself that otherwise would not be done if she did not have a quincenera, because if she wished to make changes, they would come regardless of age and celebration.
In the video we see that a quinceanera is a celebration of young girls coming to an age in which they can and are allowed to be noticed by boys. This celebration is a symbol of coming of age to many in where they will be able to date. They should behave a certain way, speak in such a way that will bring respect to themselves and their families.
People of different economic status hold a quinceañera for their daughters, but some families spend more than others; eventually becoming a downward spiral economically as we read in “Once Upon a Quinceanera” (64). The article also mentions that Hispanics tend to use their money immediately (801). This tradition has become very expensive just becuase parents want to give daughters a party of their life time. Not thingking about future consequences. This events seems to be more of a party than ritual becuase it has become more of a want than a traditional event.
Quinceanera’s have evolved into a celebration where mothers live their dreams through their daughter and force them to do things because that is how they would have liked it to be for themselves. These celebrations have hit the roof with regards to expenses. Having a quinceanera is not about how dreamy you can make the celebration, but introducing your daughter into the world of adults. We saw the photos of Ale’s 15 celebration, which was very modest and sweet. Her family gathered around to celebrate this special moment with her. Spending thousands of dollars or only a few hundred, the meaning behind it is the same.