An item that represents my family’s journey to this country is a necklace with Our Lady of Guadalupe. In Mexico, Our Lady of Guadalupe is worshiped and adored because of her many miracles that she has given people. My family’s journey to this country wasn’t a very good one, nor was it expected to be. My family carried it with them, which they felt protected them against all evils and guided them safely. My family was praying along the journey to the U.S, so that they may arrive safely guided by her.  The dangers and risks of immigrating to the United States are countless, but with Our Lady of Guadalupe on my family’s side they were safe despite all the dangers they encountered.
The experience of coming to this country by through a harsh environment is “terrible” as my family would describe it. The scorching heat during the day can kill a human as well as the freezing cold at night. There are many dangerous animals that live in the desert such as poisonous snakes, coyotes, and mountain lions which can all end a human’s life instantly. As I believe, it was a miracle from her that my family got to the United States safely and came in search for a better life.  Therefore, the necklace symbolizes my family’s journey to this country. Our Lady of Guadalupe or better known as La Virgen de Guadalupe is very important to me and my family. 

– Hector

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