Lillian Lopez

Lillian Lopez

Lillian Lopez12th Grade/Grayson Highschool24 September 2020

La SangreMy mother immigrated to the US when she was only 16 years old. Life definitely was not the easiest but my mother

fought to improve her future. Just like my mother, numerous people migrate from their homes to an entirely new country fora brighter future. Although I am not directly impacted, I still feel as though I have a connection to people who made such asacrifice.

Being accepted into a new society is a great obstacle that immigrants overcome every day. Personally, I have missedout on certain experiences because of my race or ethnicity. Along with every other person who does not meet the standardsof society, it troubles me knowing that people can be so close-minded about the lives of others. Growing up in Georgia hasmade a great impact on who I am today because of its location and the general environment. The farther away I am and theless of my culture I see, the more I am encouraged to learn about my ancestors and explore the cultures of others. The southhas treated me well though I have experienced hatred towards my heritage, I mainly grew up in a community that encouragesembracing one’s culture. My elementary school participated in Culture Night, my middle school chorus class exploredSpanish songs and songs of other languages, and my high school also has many different clubs that promote culturaldiversity. It brings me joy to know that people in our community who have not dealt with the struggles of immigration are sopassionate about bringing awareness to the issues it carries.

One of the main issues that are commonly brought up in discussion is the language barrier. My mom speaks fluentspanish, but when she got her first job in Gwinnett County Public Schools, she had trouble communicating with hercoworkers. Thankfully, she worked with people who were open to teaching her english and encouraging her to pursue hercareer. It was hard for her at first but she soon got the hang of it as my brother began helping her out at home too.Unfortunately, not everyone is presented with the opportunity my mother had, and many comments are made to those whocan not speak english. “You are in America, you need to speak english” or “Go back to your country” or “Stop taking ourjobs” are just a couple of the harassing statements I have heard from certain people. When I hear people make these remarks,it encourages me to spread awareness on how difficult it can be to really live a life impacted by immigrating. Not everyonehas experienced the struggles of living in a country with limited opportunities, so I understand why it might be hard forsomeone to accept so many new people in their environment. However, as a community, we should be more respectful ofothers and have compassion for one's struggles. My connection with this painting derives from the story and experiences mymother had moving from Mexico to America. She left all that she had known behind her so that she could live her life to itsfullest potential. She is the strongest woman I know and has supported me with all of my art. I dedicate this painting to her asshe encourages me to connect more with my culture and also has embedded her love for Mexican culture in me. The moon isinspired from the movie Debajo La Misma Luna and is a touching film that depicts the harsh realities of immigrating to theU.S. I chose to paint this because no one can really describe the feeling of anxiety and fear one has when crossing the border.Considering all the news about people in cages at the ICE centers, it is not a place anyone wants to be taken to. I feel thispiece has also brought me and my mom together as I understand her struggles and sacrifices. In the future, I hope our worldcan be more diverse and accepting about others so that we can live in peace and prosper as one.