My grandparents immigrated to the United States from Mexico in 1972. They had just gotten married and that same night, they hid in a car as they illegally crossed the border into California. Upon arrival, they lived with my grandfather's uncle. Everyday, they both went out in search of a job in order to be able to afford a meal. There was never any food in the house except for a gallon of milk and a package of hotdogs. And while they both went days without eating, they knew they didn't have many options. As the days progressed, my grandfather found work in construction and my grandmother found work at a tailor shop since she knew how to sew exceptionally well. They began saving every last penny in order to be able to afford a place of their own. They kept at this until they moved into an apartment by themselves and were able to raise their first daughter about a year after immigrating. Despite the days with no food, no water, and no sleep, my grandparents managed to push through every obstacle here in order to provide a better future for their kids. Through this all, I have always asked my grandmother how she managed to persevere, regardless of her circumstances. She showed me this necklace that was gifted to her from her brother on the night that she left Mexico. It was the one thing that she felt kept her grounded. The one thing that she has had with her to remind her of where she started and where she is now. The one thing that reminds her of the life she left behind.

– ReynaLinda Canchola

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant