My grandparents migrated here from Mexico in 1967. They arrived with close to nothing, just the hopes of a better life and opportunity. This picture is of my grandpa painting his house. The house that he first bought and raised his family.  I feel that this represents how after a lot of hard work and many jobs he was able to make it in this country. Even if he came with nothing, or was a stranger to the language. This story is important to share, because I feel that in my eyes he was the definition of the “American Dream.”  He was able to start and provide for his family. He was able to buy a home, put food on the table, and provide an education to his daughters.  They have all received an catholic education and went onto college. Without him and his story I don’t feel that I would be where I am today. I would not have the opportunity to do the things I do today. This picture represents me and my family, because I feel that his work ethic was passed on. It also taught me to be grateful for the opportunities and position that I am in now.  Because of him I am who I am today.

– Benjamin Silva

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