Honoring Language and Culture
Cultural Vocabulary and Pronunciation Guide
The words shared in this book come from real places, people, and cultural traditions. Including them is a way to honor the voices and communities that shape Long Beach.
This pronunciation and vocabulary guide is meant to support respectful learning and joyful discovery. It’s okay to practice, ask questions, and learn alongside your child. Language grows through use and shared experiences.
Remember, reading and talking about the unfamiliar words in this book are part of the adventure.
Zaferia (Zah-FEAR-ee-uh): Historic neighborhood of Long Beach in the central part of East Long Beach known for unique restaurants, coffee shops, and retail shops.
Tongva (TONG-vuh): The Tongva are an indigenous people of California from the Los Angeles-Orange County basins, and specifically the first known inhabitants of Long Beach. Tongva means “people of the earth.” They are also known as the Gabrielino, Gabrieleño, and Kizh.
Moompetam (MOHM-peh-tam): “People of the salt water” or “people of the ocean” in the Tongva language.
Khmer (Kuh-MY): refers to things, people, or language relating to Cambodia, its culture, or the indigenous Khmer people. For example, in the book Khmer food is referred to which the traditional food of Cambodia.
Día de los Muertos (DEE-ah deh lohs MWEHR-tohs): “Day of the Dead” is a joyful celebration to remember and honor those who have passed before us that originated in ancient Mexico that has roots in indigenous Aztec rituals. Here is a website that explains the holiday to children.
Calavera (kah-lah-VEH-rah): skull in Spanish; usually refers to ornate skulls with vibrant colors, beautifully decorated with designs and flowers. Sometimes made of sugar and referred to as a sugar skull, a calavera is a powerful symbol from Mexico to celebrate the Day of the Dead.
Abuelos (ah-BWEH-lohs): Spanish word for grandparents.