The Ao Dai is a traditional Vietnamese dress that females wear for occasions varying from holidays, work, or even as a school uniform. This dress is a national symbol of cultural pride and feminine elegance. When my parents immigrated from Vietnam, they continued to celebrate holidays like Lunar New Year. During that time of year, we would wear traditional clothing, decorate the house, and eat our cultural foods. I've always wanted to be connected with my Asian heritage as I'm an American-born Asian, so with my family celebrating these traditions, I was appreciative of their effort to let me experience my culture. Ever since I was young, I recall memories of celebrating my culture. Even though I was young and didn't understand the importance of Lunar New year or why we always wore this dress and covered the house in red and yellow, I still enjoyed being around people who shared the same heritage as me. My parents are first generation immigrants who came to America in order to provide my family a better life. Coming to America made a large change in their lives; They had to learn English, learn about their new environment, and most importantly, leave their family behind for years at a time. Whenever I wear my Ao Dai, it's important to me as I'm reminded of my family's complicated immigration history, as well as the country I'm proudly representing: Vietnam.

– MC

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant