Latino Americans in Augusta Oral History Project: Edwin Pérez

Interview Summary

Edwin Perez describes himself as “of Puerto Rican heritage.” He was born in New York but grew up in Puerto Rico. He describes entering the University of Puerto Rico after graduating high school and leaving to provide for his family once he became a husband and a father, ultimately joining the military. Because he had lived in the US previously, he says that he did not feel culture shock when he moved back to the US for the Army. He discusses an experience of discrimination from an Army superior during training. After retiring from the Army, he attended and graduated from Augusta State University through his Army benefits. Dr. Jana Sandarg encourage him to become a Spanish teacher, which he ultimately did. 

Now that he’s retired, Perez is involved with the ACHA (Asociación Cultural Hispanoamericana) ACHA), where he has served in many positions, including president. He is also involved with FLAIR (Foreign Language Alliance for International Rapport) and teaches Spanish at a local library.

He discusses the growth of the Hispanic population in Augusta over his time in the area. He talks about how Augusta is different from other cities in that it has no specific Hispanic/Latino neighborhood. He finds that most Americans have accepted Hispanic culture. If he could change one thing for local Hispanic/Latino community, he would like to see a large supermarket that caters to the diverse Hispanic/Latino ethnic groups.

He talks about his pride in being Puerto Rican and American. He explains that his children lack the same kind of pride in their heritage as he has, though two of his children do speak Spanish.

He also talks about how Puerto Rico is unique in that it is not independent, unlike other Spanish-speaking countries. He expresses his opinion on Puerto Rican statehood and independence. He speaks on how Puerto Ricans have a strong American influence.

This interview was lightly edited.