American Dream Sin Fronteras | Teen Ink

American Dream Sin Fronteras MAG

March 24, 2015
By Sunnie Liu, Houston, Texas
Sunnie Liu, Houston, Texas
0 articles 2 photos 0 comments

Last summer at a local farmers’ market, I chatted with a Mexican grandmother who was selling produce. She inspired me to bring awareness to issues of immigration and diversity in the U.S. through my artwork. The aforementioned Mexican grandmother has created a fruitful life here in the U.S., as represented by the plentiful produce in her vendor booth. Yet, she longs to share her new life with her children and grandchildren, whom she had to leave behind in Mexico due to immigration complications, as depicted by the silhouettes on the other side of the fence. Americans not only denies opportunities for those living in Mexico, but also for those living in the U.S. Despite others’ refusal to acknowledge her as a “real American,” the Mexican grandmother wears an apron depicting the American flag over a top made in Mexico. Her attire symbolizes how she pursues the American dream while still upholding her Mexican heritage because contrary to popular opinion, she believes that her duality of cultures should not prevent her from being a true American. Although the U.S. has pledged not to discriminate against others due to their background, she still waits for the day when America actually acts according to its promises of tolerance. As people living in the ultimate melting pot, we can all take action to promote unity, even if it is something as small as spreading the message.


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