At first glance, this may seem like a ordinary piggy bank. However this piggy bank is actually quite special in Chinese culture and holds a lot of meaning. This type of bank is very popular in China because it is believed to bring good luck and fortune. The red characters on either side of the pig roughly translates to "bring in wealth and treasure," while its golden color symbolizes prosperity.  On Chinese New Year, this type of piggy bank is often given as a gift in order to bring good luck to the recipient, and to ensure them a successful year. Additionally, during the Spring Festival parents may gift their children a piggy bank so that they can store their money in it. The goal is for them to be able to count the amount of money they had amassed by the end of the year. This item relates to my family's immigration story because the piggy bank symbolizes my parents desire to seek a more successful life in America. It also symbolizes my parents' desire to provide their children with a better life in a land full of opportunity and education.

– Angela Chen

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