The Key to the American Dream

Relationship: Child of im/migrant

My grandparents decided to come to American for many of the same push and pull factors that attracted other Mexican Immigrants. For Example, a major push factor for my grandparents was escape from personal freedoms. During that time, my family was going through intense hardships at home that forced their migration because they could no longer live in the environment. A major pull factor for their migration was the increase wages and employment opportunities. A lot of my family members were able to attain better jobs in the U.S. that offered them more money than any jobs that had been offered in Mexico. My Father is a prime example of this pull factor. My Father was only a couple of months old when my grandparents decided to move here from the pueblo of Michoacán. Since he was not born in the U.S. my father was considered an immigrant and required a green card to be able to attend school and Go to work. Although it may not be a significant object to most, it was for my family to be able to achieve the life we currently have. Because of this card my father was able to attain an education that resulted my family living the American Dream. He is my inspiration in pursing an education because he showed me despite any obstacles that may come in the way, it is not impossible to achieve. As a young father, he had to went through many struggles in order to achieve higher education. My Father was able to get a position in the Government program of the Federal Aviation Agency with only a certificate from LA Trade Tech.

Place(s): South Los Angeles, Michoacán
Year: 1978

– Lindsey Mendoza

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