My Mother. The woman who I admire most in life, who has taught me courage, strength, integrity and above all determination. Maria, her name, was born in Morelos, Mexico where she lived for about 10 years and until she finally migrated and settled in Chihuahua, Mexico. Her life in Mexico was a rough one where push factors included poor living conditions, lack of money, and desire for a higher education. My mother never had anything of her own, for everything she wore or used was a hand me down from her older sister. Thus, these pair of earrings were one the only things she owned and when she gifted them to me when I was 4 years old I could and can still hear her story through them. When she was just 15 my grandfather told her she could no longer attend school for there was no money and she had to work. My mother always regrets not being able to continue her education.   Her decision to immigrate to the United States was similar to many during this time. Similarly my mom came seeking work and even joined and adult English school where years later even obtaining her GED. Here she met my father who is also a Mexican immigrant from Jalisco, Mexico. Although they had many rough patches economically, they had more opportunity here to have a more stable and safe home which they obtained and raised my younger sister and I. Thus, these earrings are a symbol of her struggle and sacrifice to have a better life and most importantly to never let my dreams die out. 

– Somely Celedon

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