In 1960, trying to escape a dictatorship in the Dominican Republic, Jonathan’s parents sent him to Puerto Rico at the age of 17. Under this dictatorship, it was mandatory for men to serve in the military, which often meant a death sentence. Jonathan’s older brother had been forced into service and was killed. Fearing they might lose another son, Jonathan’s parents decided their only option was to send their son away. There was a man around town claiming he knew a way to take men out of the country through water, Jonathan’s parents paid this man and sent him to Puerto Rico on a boat. This is a photo of a sign with a picture of the dictator, which families were forced to hang on their homes, next to a religious image, as a sign of loyalty to him.These were often distributed by the Dominican party; not displaying one could lead arrest and even murder. It says, “In this home Trujillo is a national symbol….Righteousness, Liberty, Work and Morality….Benefactor of the nation.” Jonathan eventually came to New York City in 1980 with his wife. He took a job at a restaurant and used the money to support his parents and sister. Eventually, Jonathan was able to bring his sister Jennifer. 

– CM

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant