The Gambia gives me a quiet sense of comfort and hope, even from far away. As a U.S. citizen whose parents were born there, I feel a deep pull toward the country that shaped them before it shaped me. Knowing that my roots stretch across the Atlantic makes my identity feel fuller and more grounded. The stories, traditions, and resilience of Gambian people remind me that I come from a place of strength and community. Thinking about visiting one day fills me with curiosity and pride, like I’m slowly finding pieces of myself that have always been there, waiting to be understood.

At the same time, learning about The Gambia’s past comes with both benefits and struggles. There is beauty in understanding its rich culture, close-knit families, and enduring spirit, but there is also pain in confronting histories of colonization, hardship, and sacrifice. Sometimes it’s difficult to balance pride with grief, or hope with unanswered questions. Still, I believe that facing this history is a gift—it allows me to honor my parents’ journey and better understand my own. Through learning, I find connection, and through connection, I find hope that bridges where I come from with where I am going.

– M

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