Coming to the U.S.A  was a jolting experience for my parents and my oldest sister. When they moved here it was a completely different environment and they had to leave a lot behind. Both culturally and physically. One of the things that impacted my mother the most was how she had to cook differently. Sometimes she would have to substitute certain ingredients or she simply couldn't make all the meals she used to make because of the lack of ingredients. There were also a lot of other traditions that my parents had to lose, but there was a tradition that they were determined to keep in their lives. That tradition was El Dia de Los Muertos,  It is a tradition that happens once a year in November and honors the dead in our family. In my family, we put out a large amount of coffee, beer, candy, peanuts, different foods, as well as candles and flowers. During this day my family and I get up early and prepare all the food and drink to put out onto the altar. I have helped out ever since I could remember and this tradition means so much to me because it is what made me fall in love with cooking and it was also a gateway that motivated me to get more involved and educated about my culture. During this holiday my parents get to remember their old lives and feel comfortable in this new country, even if they have been here for a couple years. 

– Jesus Cano

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