When my mom migrated from Ecuador to the United States, she carried with her a deep devotion to the Virgin del Cisne, who is known as a protector and source of hope for many Ecuadorians. Before leaving, she was pregnant with me and promised the Virgin that if she made it safely to the U.S., she would name me after her. This promise became part of our family’s story, connecting our journey to faith and tradition. At home, we have a portrait of the Virgin del Cisne, and during my baptism I was given a small pendant of her that I still treasure. She holds a lot of meaning for us, not just as a religious figure but as a reminder of my mom’s courage and safe arrival. My grandmother, who came to the U.S. a few years before my mom, also prayed to the Virgin before her journey, so it became a tradition in our family. Whenever my mom and I go back to Ecuador, we visit the church to pray and give thanks, carrying on what she began. My name is Maria Del Cisne and I feel proud to carry it because of the faith and history behind it.

– MS

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