My grandfather is related to Rafael Trujillo who was a Dominican politician, soldier and dictator, who ruled the Dominican Republic in 1930 until his assassination in 1961. This badge says, "Maimon, Heroismo y Lealtad", translated to Maimon (a town in Dominican Republic), Heroism, and loyalty. This badge was in the year 1959, where Trujillo was still a ruler. His dictatorship treated many of the citizens horribly. My grandfather was alive throughout his rule but wasn't affected as much as everyone else. In 1985, my grandfather made the choice to come to the United States to attain a better life. Although they were known for making clothes and fixing bags in their small town, their income wasn't enough for their expenses. This country offered him opportunities that wasn't offered in his homeland. Three years later he brought my grandmother, the next year his children. My grandfather continued to fix shoes and bags, while my grandmother a seamstress (till this day). Their struggles and history shaped them to who they are today. If it wasn't for their courageous choice to come to the states, my siblings, cousins and I wouldn't be here.  

– Naomi Sanchez

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant