When I was growing up, in my perspective, this object was simply something that was hung on the wall. I never thought about where it came from or what it represented. In fact, I first realized the map's significance back in high school. This map was a gift to my parents when they were coming to American back in 1987. The map originally came with another piece of artwork, which was of an African woman looking to her left. I believe both pieces of art were created by the same person because both pictures have similar styles. They both are crafted from many different designs of African patterned fabric. Nonetheless, this map represents the story of my parents' struggles and successes since coming to America. In 1987, my father came to America because he had a scholarship to a university in Michigan. My mother and older sister came a couple months later. After my father graduated from the university in Michigan, my family moved to Chicago and then to Philadelphia. They were able to get a two bedroom apartment; however, other essentials that they needed were found in the street. Despite not having many things, they were able to decorate their apartment with the pieces of artwork. The map hung in the background symbolizing wherever they go they had sanctuary. Currently the map hangs in our living room and can be spotted as soon as anyone enters our house. It will always be a reminder of the hardships my parents' had to overcome for my siblings and me to live the American dream.

– Shianen Watson

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