My family was built upon love, peace, and happiness. This object of a family portrait captures that. My mom, raised in a stable home in Ethiopia, had carried the strength of love. She had come here to the U.S seeking for more opportunities and education. My dad, who came to this country from Ethiopia seeking a better life and peace, portrayed determination and the passion he had towards living peacefully with happiness. The smiles show the reflection of the happiness that we have found together. Their journey, sacrifices, and love had made us who we are, while also reflecting our identity that revolves around hope and strength.  The object I had chosen was a family portrait.  Seeing us all together always reminded me of the huge sacrifices my parents made. Leaving everything behind, hoping for a better life for us, that kind of courage and determination is a huge picture in our family. Looking at this image, I see more than just faces, I see a visual of the opportunities and legacies that they have passed to me. It also mirrors my identity, that's a unique blend of both American and Ethiopian culture. This shaped who I am. This image also captured the richness and diversity our family had brought into my life, the strength that I had inherited from my family, and the decision of believing in the possibility of a brighter future and opportunities. Our smiles and genuine happiness reflects the warmth and spirit that is a part of my family. The spirit that had been passed along to me, as it had later reflected my identity as a person both culturally and personally. 

– B.M

Relationship:  unknown unknown