I’ve always heard from friends how special attending baseball games can be, but I never found my way to the ballparks (there are two teams in Chicago) until recently.
Thanks to Discover Puerto Rico, which invited me to the Saturday, August 22, White Sox vs. New York Mets game, I spent my first baseball game in a diamond suite. Though I need to learn more about the sport to understand the rules, the vibes at Rate Field were high as the team celebrated Puerto Rican Heritage Night.
They also honored former right-handed relief pitcher Roberto Hernandez, who played some of his best seasons with the Sox from 1991-1997 (he made his MLB debut with the team).
Being in a suite was just one memorable moment of the night. I learned more about Puerto Rican culture and how beautiful the island and its people are. I brought my sister, and we received a warm welcome that included good food, exciting conversation, and a bag full of Discover Puerto Rico goodies (specialty coffee, Owala water bottle, etc).
Though the White Sox had two home runs, they lost 10-5. Still, there was a feeling of winning in the air, which I felt even at the start of the game as a beloved heritage was honored.
What does Puerto Rico have to offer?
This is a short question with a loaded answer. I’ve never been to the island, but after reading the pamphlet, it is on my travel bucket list. From the cuisines to the beaches, tropical weather, and historical sights, I know whenever I go, it will be hard to leave.
Why celebrating different cultures is important
I grew up in a household where we learned to be loud and proud about our own culture while also respecting others. Celebrating different cultures broadens our knowledge and builds real togetherness and community.
Header image credit: Lashaunta Moore/Compliment Magazine
