To dark skin, to light skin, to Community.

I am American and Mexican. My dad was born in Berkeley and my mom came here from Mexico when she was in her teens. My family lived in low-income housing in Goleta, California called ‘La Esperanza.’ Hope.
I remember the multi-cultural influence of where I lived, I remember the community, the yard sales, and the BBQ’s. The neighbor’s gifts of tamales, and Chinese New Year presents. I remember the man selling corn on a stick, honking his horn and us kids running out and devouring the yellow, mayonnaise-slathered mess. The neighbors sharing not only sugar with each other, but money, time, and trucks.
And I realize now in my older years, we were all just trying to survive. Trying to participate in a society that we just didn’t quite fit in. And in that, we found community. A country, if you will, of our own. A country based on helping those in need. In sharing your wealth. In sharing your culture.
It wasn’t perfect. I’ll say that. But it was real. It was connection. It was humanity living TOGETHER.
It took me a while to appreciate the eighteen years in La Esperanza Apartments but now I look back with pride. With tools that help me be a better human to others. To hold curiosity before judgement and most importantly hold Compassion for those who need it.
In light of the recent immigration news I felt so much anger. And a sense of helplessness. A desire to drive to the border and just help. And I realize their may be others feeling this way. I encourage you all to engage with the different cultures in your neighborhood or city. Start there and see your community unfold. You would be amazed by the stories we all hold.

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