Most Sundays, my family and I will have an authentic Italian dinner-spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, baked ziti-anything with my mom's homemade red sauce accompanied by delicious Italian bread. My great grandparents originate from Sicily, and my grandfather is the last of the family to know some of the Sicilian language. 

Holidays were also always very important to us. Every Christmas Eve we gathered around the table with all of our family ready to indulge in the typical Italian meal of the 7 fishes. My grandpa always sat at the head of the table and would tell stories of his past. As a child, I never really listened, as I would be too distracted by my own hunger. However, as I grew older I began to recognize the importance of family. I knew that my grandparents were always so proud to have their whole family that they built sitting in front of them, able to be part of the special holiday. 

Things are much different now; my grandparents ended up moving out of their home and into my aunt's, as they are no longer able to care for themselves. My grandmother's dementia is worsening, but I know she'll always remember our family gatherings, and so will I. 

– Jessica Melita

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more