I’m at a point in my life where deep reflection dawns on a desire and overwhelming pressure to revitalize and continue my family’s stories. I have always felt rooted in my culture and identity through my grandparents, as 3 of them immigrated from Mexico and one was from the U.S.
“I have also always struggled with my identity being a Latina because of the disjuncture/disconnect I have with my cultura due to the fact I am the only one in my family who can’t speak Spanish. Having this language barrier has been my biggest insecurity because it creates a divide between people and family who are right in front of me.”
I constantly feel like a product of assimilation when my family exemplifies and is a product of resistance. And although I feel this insecurity, it is overpowered by the strength of love I receive from my grandparents.
I have lost both my grandpa’s and I am blessed to still have my Abuelita’s Ma Rosa y Mama Licho in my life. Having the presence radiates a power of resilience and strength I strive to carry and pass on to my younger sisters and future generations. And I have tried and will continue to uplift their stories for as long as I can.
Storyteller Valerie Jaimes writes, ” I stand on the shoulders of my parents, Charlotte and Juan Jaimes who stand on the shoulders of Alicia and Arthur Morgan and Rosalba and Lazaro Jaimes. I am from Santa Barbara, Ca. and am currently a 3rd year at the University of San Diego studying Sociology and Ethnic Studies. My passion is to stand with my community and be a support system to my younger sisters, Lily y Alicia.”
