All of these objects hold a lot of sentimental value to me and my family, We have had these traditions so long mixed in with so much former heritage and will continue to do so. For the past 17 years of my life I have always held these close to me and made me who I was.
Firstly starting with my grandmother’s sweet potato bread. My grandmother is from the south where food is very big especially in her family. She would visit annually since she lived so far. It was almost a must for her to bake it when she visited to remind us that no matter how far away we are, we will always be connected. We were all happy in those moments it represented the south very well.
One of the more important things that runs in the family, is Christmas. Over 10 years ago me and my younger siblings created little ornaments for Christmas. No one had known about them until we surprised our family with them and placed them on the tree. They are a sign of our youth and how far we’ve come over the last decade. It’s always reminiscent when we pull them out and an aura of pureness surrounds them.
Lastly would be my grandfather. Now although I never got to meet him I still have photos of him that my mom always kept. My mother told me that he wanted to see his grandchildren succeed before he went and keeping his pictures around motivates me to chase my dreams and to keep doing better. He also served in the army so getting things done for his people were mandatory. I take that into account with everything I do and don’t want to let him down.

– Kymani Baden

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