Graduation Speech: First Generation Mexican-American Women In America

As I am approaching my tia’s house, I hear the roar of the music from the backyard, a mixture of air and percussion instruments like drums, trumpets, and clarinets. One could hear the laughter and sense of love amongst everyone at the party. Everyone is enjoying the delicious food, holding hands, dancing with one another, cheering on those who are displaying their love of our culture. In this community, you feel a sense of belonging and welcoming the moment you walk past the door. We honor and praise those who succeed, help the ones in need, and value one’s character rather than their appearance. As a first generation Mexican-American women in America, there is a certain pride and spirituality that is carried with you. This same pride is what keeps the tradition alive.
Being a child of immigrant parents, it is our duty to prosper and fulfill our goals so the hardships and struggles of our parents do not become a vain attempt. No matter what difficulties we stress, we rely on that family bond which helps us prosper. My role in this community is to garner the benefits that my parents have provided to me through their sacrifices and serve as a role model to future generations. By earning my degree, I would demonstrate to the younger generations that we, as minorities, can prosper in our desired field and make an impact on this world. I want to be an example to those who believe they can not prosper because we are minorities, however, we can diversify the work system. We are not defined by the given stereotypes of our community but rather the story we create for