In 2004, my mom immigrated from Mexico to America in hopes of having a better chance at life. She wanted to escape from poverty, violence, and the unjust government that was in place. Her parents couldn't afford for her to achieve her dreams, going to university. So at just 21, she crossed the border. These jeans were the jeans that she wore while she was on her journey. In the last picture, you can see the hole that the barbwire made when she got caught as she was climbing over the wall. The bag was the only thing she could bring to carry her belongings, which was not a lot. Finally, on May 5th, 2004, she arrived in New York. She loved her mom too much and did not want herself to be sitting at her house doing nothing, so she came to New York to create a successful life for herself and her family, whether they were in New York or not. She now has three first generation Mexican - American daughters (including myself). My dad also immigrated from Mexico to New York and is a sub chef at an Italian restaurant. After years of fighting for what they have always wanted and experiencing extremely traumatic events, they both got their citizenship and were able to vote for the first time last year. 

– VCA

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