In the early 2000´s, my family started migrating from Guatemala to Chicago by traveling through Mexico and crossing the border. My dad is  the first person from my family to come into the U.S. A few years later, he had the money for my mother and sister to come over. The family members that most represent my cultural identity is my mother because she keeps our culture alive by making tamales during the holidays and special foods that they used to make in Guatemala. My object is an old photo of the house my mom used to live in when she was in Guatemala in the 1990’s. The photo originally belonged to my uncle in Guatemala, but whenever he finds old pictures he sends them to my mom or other family members. The photo is part of a photo portfolio that my family keeps at home of happy moments in our lives. This photo is important to me because it reminds me of how far my family traveled to create a better life. I am so proud of being in a Guatemalan family and this picture reminds me never to give up no matter where the road leads me. The photo gives me strength to push through life’s obstacles. I am really thankful for having this opportunity to be in this country that provides me with an education and the opportunity to add to its unique diversity.

– Myrka C.

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