My family’s American story began when my grandfather decided to migrate to Chicago 8 years ago from Puerto Rico. The reason he came to Chicago was to start a new life after he retired. About 3 years ago, I arrived to Chicago from Puerto Rico and most of my other family as well. My mother I would say is most representative of my cultural identity because she is the one that gets the family together on special occasions and prepares traditional Puerto Rican food. An object that was passed down to me from 3 generations of men in my family was a gold chain with a Virgin Mary pendant hanging from it. The chain symbolizes strength, protection and love in our Catholic faith. My special object came from Puerto Rico and originally belonged to my great-grandfather. I wear the chain and pendant when I go to church or on special occasions. My gold chain and pendant is very important to me because it was passed down in my family by 3 generations of strong men in my family that believed their strength and love was guided by the Virgin Mary, as well as keeping them safe from harm. My object connects to my cultural identity because it represents our commitment to family and our religious faith. 

– Almando B.

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant