My family is from Dominican republic and migrated to New York City at very different times in life. My father was brought to New York by my grandmother when he was only 18 years of age, my mother came to New York in 2000  later on with my brother while pregnant with me, leaving most of her family in Dominican republic. Even though it was a hard move for my mother only knowing the Spanish language, being together with family was the most important part of living in NYC for her. My family values having each others back no matter what, so they grew accustomed to New York with the encouragement of Family. One part that keeps the family connected is family board game nights. My father would teach me and my brother how to play many different games like poker. The most popular games being Parcheesi and Dominoes, where the Dominican way to play has very different set of rules. In my grandmothers house, my aunts and uncles were always the most competitive. Board games were a way to meet family even when everyone was busy or lived far away.These small moments of fun were a way to care for one another, even when it was not said in words. Today I feel proud of  my parents that overcame such a big change in their lives and stayed grounded and happy.

– SP

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