Harry Potter is a world that has been loved and explored by many, but it’s never been looked at from a Latina cultural and spiritual lens. This virtual series will take you on an adventure through this wonderful universe exploring the first three books and films through a fresh perspective! Latinas who are struggling within their culture or want to explore spirituality can find solace knowing they aren’t alone; there’s always Hogwarts for them – where anything seems possible…Be part of a conversation about what it means “to be a Latina,” and join our welcoming Potterhead comunidad.
In the late 90’s Professor Jiménez was working as a Teacher’s Assistant at a public school. She began to notice that during lunch and recess, children were reading a book rather than playing. This special book – Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone – caught her attention. She soon was captivated by it and became a Latina Potterhead joining millions of fans around the globe. She bought the books at midnight when they went on sale, and spent all day in line waiting to see the films on their release day. To this day, she can remember exactly where she was and how she felt when she closed the last book.
Although she identifies as Gryffindor, each quiz she takes places her in Ravenclaw. She proudly accepts both houses as her own since she’s used to navigating two culture’s at the same time as a Latina who identifies as Generation 1.5. After taking the quizzes, her patronus is a Salmon (yes a salmon!!) and her wand is Fir wood with a Unicorn core 12 ¼” and an unbending flexibility. She has loved unicorns since she was a little girl so this really made her happy. Her favorite character is Severus Snape.
Professor Jiménez is the Founder of Recetas. She obtained 2 Masters in Theology and Ministry and a Doctorate in Ministry specializing in Latino theology and ministry. She has over 27 years experience in Catholic Ministry, is a spiritual director and training as an integrative wellness coach.
Alejandra Angel is the Director of Campus Ministry at St. Mary’s Academy in Inglewood, California, where she also teaches theology. As a Campus Minister she strives to empower young women to claim their voices in the Church through service, lay preaching, and retreats.
Alejandra is a Gryffindor and has been in love with the world of Harry Potter for more than half her life. Her most fond Potter memories include lining up for the midnight book releases and attending movie premieres with her friends.
When she is not at work she can be found strolling through Hogsmeade with a Butterbeer in hand at Universal Studios Hollywood. Her Patronus is an Otter and her wand is made of Holly, containing a phoenix tail feather. She was born in Mexico and was raised in Bakersfield, California, and proudly identifies as Generation 1.5!
Latina Potterheads is hosted on the Mighty Networks Platform and is part of the Recetas app (still under construction).
