Ortiz Cofer explains that the way Puerto Rican women dress in Puerto Rico is "read" very differently by other people than when they dress in the same way elsewhere in the United States. What is the difference between the two responses? What does she say to explain why in one place the young women are respected and revered and in the other are disrespected and treated rudely? What role do you think dress should play in how people read other people?
a) In Puerto Rico, the dress is seen as a cultural expression and garners respect, whereas in the United States, the same dress can be misinterpreted as provocation, leading to disrespect. This difference is attributed to cultural misunderstanding and stereotypes. Dress should not be a primary factor in judging others, but rather understood within cultural context.
b) In both Puerto Rico and the United States, the dress of Puerto Rican women is viewed similarly, with no significant difference in respect or treatment. Ortiz Cofer suggests that any perceived difference is due to individual experiences, not widespread cultural misunderstanding. Dress should play a significant role in how we perceive others, as it reflects personal choices and identity.
c) In the United States, Puerto Rican women's dress is seen as a cultural expression similar to in Puerto Rico, but the reaction in Puerto Rico is more negative due to traditional values. Ortiz Cofer argues this is because of a stronger emphasis on conservatism in Puerto Rican society. Dress should be viewed independently of cultural context, focusing on individual expression.
d) The difference in responses is not addressed by Ortiz Cofer, and she does not provide an explanation for differing perceptions based on location. She suggests that dress should not influence how people are read by others, without offering a clear stance on cultural context.
