From paletas to folklórico, the vibrant influence of Michoacán, Mexico, can be seen—and tasted—across West Chicago. The state is more than a cultural backdrop; it’s the origin point for many local residents and business owners who are reshaping what it means to belong.

According to the article “Making Mexican Chicago: Displacement, Gentrification, and Resilience of Latinx Communities” by Virginia Commonwealth University, early waves of Mexican immigrants arrived in the U.S. in the 1910s and 1920s, recruited to fill industrial labor shortages. These workers helped lay the groundwork for Mexican settlement in Chicago neighborhoods and surrounding suburbs. In West Chicago, many of those roots trace back specifically to the state of Michoacán.

For families from Michoacán, those roots run deep.

“It brings a sense of unity, like a sense of home,” said Belen Jimenez, who helps manage La Michoacana in downtown West Chicago. “There’s a lot of immigrants here, and I feel like it’s like having a little piece of home.”

La Michoacana is just one example of how residents share their heritage through local business. From sweet treats like fresas con crema to traditional dances and Spanish-language music, Michoacán culture is alive on every corner.

“It’s really important for me to not lose my values that have been taught to me and my culture,” said Luna Bautista, who was born in Michoacán and raised in West Chicago. “I balance this by speaking Spanish with my friends and family every day… I also try to learn Michoacán dishes, listen to Spanish music, and celebrate U.S. holidays like the Fourth of July.”

The language connection isn’t always easy to maintain. Jenna Windt, head of the language department at WCCHS, sees students navigating complex relationships with their heritage.

“We do have a group of kids whose parents were born in Mexico or another country… and some students are second or third generation,” Windt said. “They understand everything, but don’t necessarily feel confident speaking Spanish in certain settings.”

Still, many students find their own way to keep cultural identity alive. Jovani Alvez, a WCCHS senior and bass player for the band “Los Abrillantados,” discovered his connection through music.

“As a child, my dad would always play traditional music. I used to think it was just a melody, but I grew up and realized every song tells a story,” Alvez said. “That’s what sparked my passion to play.”

Though some immigrant families face barriers—like access to resources or generational gaps in language—West Chicago’s Michoacán community continues to thrive. Businesses are growing. Students are celebrating their roots. And every dish, dance, and song adds to a shared sense of pride.

The question now is: how will the next generation continue leading with culture?