Trinity L. Allen G. Anthony M. Bryan T. M. Eduardo C.-N. Ezmei Jairo A. Khamiyah J. Mafer V. Abigail S. Alexander A. Anthony R. DJ Giovanni R. Jabier C. Navaya W. Sioape T. Yuliana C. Luis J. Anneliese P. Daniel R. Isaac H. Nahima C. Anahi T. Daniela L.
C Aaron J. Andrea S. C. Ariadne M. Danna L. Esperanza D. Fabian F. Jose C. Logan G. Marco M. Adrian C. Ana S. Dashiel C. Dylan D. Isaac Q.-G. Jr. Joshep R. Quaylon T. Xitlali E. Ashley Alina R. Christopher C. Dayana M. T. John C. Najive O. Ashley M. Gabriel G.
A A Arisbei P. D Eva H J L S A A D G I K S Ya B A D D L O D M
Our Words Are Powerful
2026
theme
Volume 3 (
Youth Poetry Compilation by W
Our Words Are Powerful: Be Strong, We Belong Volume 3 (High School Students)
Words To Power
Our Words Are Powerful: Be Strong, We Belong Volume 3 (High School Students) This book is a publication of
Copyright © 2026 by Words To Power All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the author.
To the youth facing the struggles of today and tomorrow: Remember that you are strong! Your words are powerful. You belong.
Acknowledgments Thank you to the amazing high school students who submitted your powerful poems to this collection. Special thank you to the schools that partnered with us during the 2025-2026 school year. We look forward to working with you! We greatly appreciate the financial support from America 250 – Colorado 150, Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, Colorado Creative Industries, Community ACTS Fund, Denver Arts & Venues, Denver Economic Development & Opportunity, Genesis Inspiration Foundation, GES Community Investment Fund, Scientific and Cultural Facilities District, The Colorado Health Foundation, The Denver Foundation, and all our individual donors. With your investment, we can publish, celebrate, and distribute books of poetry written by underserved youth as part of our programs in schools (workshops, student presentations, and poetry videos), to encourage creative expression that reduces isolation, increases self-confidence, and increases the use of poetry for coping and resilience.
Foreword Welcome to “Our Words Are Powerful,” an annual youth-written series of poetry books from the Denver area edited, published, and distributed by Words To Power. Previous themes have included: • • • • •
“We Are The Dreams Of Our Ancestors” (2025) “Our Roots, Our Words, Our Power” (2024) “Our Ancestors Speak Through Us” (2023) “We Are Here For A Reason” (2022) “The Struggle Is Real, So Is Our Resilience” (2021)
For 2026’s theme (“Be Strong, We Belong”), over 200 youth submitted their poems focused on facing the current challenges with strength and a sense of belonging. These powerful words come from participants in Words To Power's poetry workshops and student presentations. Volume 3 includes poems from 75 students in our partner high schools. We know their words will inspire you to be strong during these difficult times. Stay tuned to our social media for videos of youth reading their poems. Words To Power conducts highly engaging, culturally relevant, and SELfocused spoken word poetry workshops for underserved youth in elementary, middle, and high schools in the Denver metro area and throughout Colorado. As an extension of our workshops, we partner with schools to host presentations of youth poetry. Words To Power publishes annual books of youth poetry with submissions from our workshop participants. Every summer, we host book release events with contributors reading their poetry for their families and the greater community. The Words To Power logo draws inspiration from many sources. The overall structure is modeled after a corn plant, as our workshop curriculum uses it as a metaphor. The raised fist reminds us of our power to create change, as social justice movements before us have struggled to achieve. The scrolls on either side pull from Indigenous books in Mexico, as symbols of speech (thus the accompanying image from a codex of people talking to each other). Taken together, our words and power come from our roots.
Table of Contents Us by Trinity C. (age 13) .................................................................................... 1 The Change Starts with Us by Aaron J. (age 14) ............................................ 2 The Blood to Create by Alexa L. (age 14) ....................................................... 4 Her Sacrifice, My Skyline by Allen G. (age 14) ............................................... 5 From Darkness to Light by Andrea S. C. (age 14) ......................................... 6 Stage Lights by Annasophia B. (age 14)........................................................... 7 The Key by Anthony M. (age 14) ..................................................................... 8 Sacrificios y Sueños por Ariadne M. (14 años de edad) ................................ 9 I Am Who I Want to Become by Arisbei P. (age 14) .................................. 10 The Power of Our Antecedents by Bryan T. M. (age 14) ........................... 11 El Poder por Danna L. (14 años de edad)..................................................... 12 Better Future by Devan M. (age 14) ............................................................... 13 Unity by Eduardo C.-N. (age 14) .................................................................... 14 The Last Esperanza by Esperanza D. (age 14) ............................................. 15 The Burden, The Fight by Eva C. S. (age 14) ............................................... 16 Dreams of Community by Ezmei (age 14).................................................... 20 Struggle and Success by Fabian F. (age 14) ................................................... 21 Camino al Futuro por Henry B. (14 años de edad) ...................................... 22 El Camino de Mis Sueños por Jairo A. (14 años de edad) .......................... 22 Power Within by Jose C. (age 14) ................................................................... 23 Logica por Josue H. (14 años de edad) .......................................................... 24 Not In Vain by Khamiyah J. (age 14)............................................................. 25 The Chase by Logan G. (age 14) .................................................................... 27 What Am I? by Luis F.-R. (age 14) ................................................................. 28
El Eco de Mis Raices por Mafer V. (14 años de edad) ................................30 My Roots, My Story by Marco M. (age 14) ....................................................32 The Push by Selene N. (age 14) .......................................................................33 Motivation by Abigail S. (age 15) ....................................................................36 Voice and Power by Adrian C. (age 15) .........................................................37 Change by Alejandro M. (age 15) ....................................................................38 Pride and Power by Alexander A. (age 15) ....................................................40 Reality and Dreams by Ana S. (age 15) ..........................................................42 The Kid Who Makes His Family Proud by Angel C. (age 15) ....................43 Dreams of Light by Anthony R. (age 15).......................................................45 Associated by Dashiel C. (age 15) ...................................................................46 Dark and Light by Delylah H. (age 15) ..........................................................47 Ancestors’ Dreams by DJ (age 15) ..................................................................48 Future Success by Dylan D. (age 15) ..............................................................50 Our Dreams by Gianni E. (age 15) .................................................................51 On My Shoulders by Giovanni R. (age 15) ....................................................51 The Ticket by Isaac Q.-G. Jr. (age 15)............................................................52 I Do Not Want to Be Silenced Anymore by Isabel R. (age 15) ..................53 El Orgullo De La Vida por Jabier C. (15 años de edad) ..............................55 Never Forget by Joshep R. (age 15) ................................................................56 China Doll by Kimberli B. (age 15) ................................................................57 Confidence by Navaya W. (age 15) .................................................................59 My Responsibility by Quaylon T. (age 15) .....................................................61 An Immigrant’s Bright Future by Sebastian M. (age 15) .............................62 The Roots Of The New World by Sioape T. (age 15) .................................64 This Cruel World by Xitlali E. (age 15) ..........................................................65 Dreams Coming True by Yaretzi L. (age 15) ................................................66
Familia Adelante by Yuliana C. (age 15) ........................................................ 67 El Futuro es Nuestro por Ashley (16 años de edad) ................................... 68 Strangers From The Same Seed by Bailee L. (age 16) ................................. 70 The Light by Luis J. (age 16) ........................................................................... 74 Raices en el Exito por Alina R. (17 años de edad) ....................................... 75 Reflection of Strength by Angel C. (age 17).................................................. 77 I Belong by Anneliese P. (age 17) ................................................................... 78 Believe in a Legacy by Christopher C. (age 17) ............................................ 79 Side vs Side by Daniel L. (age 17) ................................................................... 80 The Future I See by Daniel R. (age 17).......................................................... 81 Our Desire by Dayana M. T. (age 17) ............................................................ 82 Siguiendo Mis Sueños por Deilibeth A. (17 años de edad) ......................... 85 Pour Me Some Family by Isaac H. (age 17) .................................................. 86 Espinas y Pétalos por John C. (17 años de edad) ......................................... 87 Inclusion by Laura M. (age 17)........................................................................ 89 Futuro Hermoso por Nahima C. (17 años de edad) .................................... 90 Lo Que Quedó de Nosotros por Najive O. (17 años de edad) .................. 91 Herencia de Tierra por Osvaldo R. (17 años de edad) ................................ 93 Two Worlds by Anahi T. (age 18) .................................................................. 94 Inner Thoughts by Ashley M. (age 18) .......................................................... 96 Shouldering the Load by Daniel H. (age 18) ................................................. 97 Raíces y Sueños por Daniela L. (18 años de edad) ....................................... 98 Rumbo Sin Destino por Gabriel G. (18 años de edad) ............................. 100 Soaring For the Skies by Melanie G. (age 18) ............................................. 101
Us by Trinity C. (age 13) With our voices, we can shout bricks or mutter a feather, both able to write a letter. Our words are loud or light, no matter how bright, always staying together. We hold the rich soil of flowers, our hands somewhat of cowards, throwing it in rocks with no stops. We create our own problems, all to say that we are not lame. We think our actions may be the fault of someone else, when sometimes it is only us to blame. Together, we can create pretty gardens and beautiful fields with our color, plain
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or unique. We always connect slowly, everyone encouraging the motivation we seek. We are the seeds of which bees drop, creating colorful bonds that are stronger than any rock. The dreams of these beauties are always pondering, for you too may be wandering, as the bees in the breeze, or the flowers that tower.
The Change Starts with Us by Aaron J. (age 14) I am the start of the dreams my family could not finish. My roots tell me to grow but I am kept in the shade, getting the wrong side of fame as they make our people feel shame. I come from a migrant family, not knowing their sacrifices
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are the reason I am here. My parents arrived with nothing and have given me everything. In the mirror, I see a bright future. On my shoulders, I carry the hope and traditions from my ancestors. In my eyes, I hold those scars of being brought down by those with power. In my dreams, I imagine a world in which we come together in unity as one, big community, not by choice, but responsibility.
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The Blood to Create by Alexa L. (age 14) I am the light that wants to keep the road ahead bright. I carry passion and strength in my blood. I come from a family that sacrifices for me to keep moving to the next chapter. They give me motivation to make the family blood stronger. In the mirror, I see everything they have done to make me who I am today. In my dreams, I imagine becoming the better version of myself, so my future will be as powerful as the stars, and filled with joy. With our voices, we can speak the truth and pave our way to a brighter tomorrow. In our hands, we carry the future we want to create. Together, we find strength within us
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to keep moving forward. We are the people who will always remember the past so we can build a better future.
Her Sacrifice, My Skyline by Allen G. (age 14) I am the hope in my mother’s eyes. I will never forget the look on her face when she saw my accomplishments. I come from a life of hardship. My mother sacrifices everything just so I can succeed. In the mirror, I see a person carrying many burdens. On my shoulders, I feel the heavy pressure left on me. In my dreams, I imagine my success, reaching my hopes and dreams, and going beyond. I have the power to go further than my ancestors, beyond what they could have imagined.
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From Darkness to Light by Andrea S. C. (age 14) I come from the eclipse of the world, dark and old. The hatred can make a heart rotten cold. In the mirror, I see a girl with a happy mask filled with cracks that never heal, that never renew. I always see bags under my eyes no matter what I do. In my dreams, I imagine a girl filled with life, sharing a huge smile. I will have the power to make a rock float in water for awhile. I will be the sun that lights the darkness of the night, helping broken souls lost in a black hole.
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Stage Lights by Annasophia B. (age 14) I am creativity being expressed through hard work, the strength to keep going even when it is hard. I come from where the lights are bright and the music is loud. I get motivation from the power they give off. In the mirror, I see a person whose childhood has been put into perfection. On my shoulders, I carry the hopes from the people who follow my path. In my dreams, I imagine I will be able to share this passion, formed in my heart, with many. I can create a world where people can escape to.
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The Key by Anthony M. (age 14) Together, we hold the key for others to see. With our voices, we can speak to those with hearts that are cold. We inspire our sisters and brothers, lifting up the young and old. In our hands, we hold the key to a new future, a new world to see. Our future can only happen if we know how to use the key. Together, we remain strong. We connect like the lyrics of a song. Together, we hold the key, to unlock who we are. We are the carriers of our future, and the holders of our past. The power we have is intended
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to last. Together, we hold the key to a future that is ours to see.
Sacrificios y Sueños por Ariadne M. (14 años de edad) Con nuestras manos, hacemos la comida that helps you live! Nuestro futuro está lleno con sueños y logros, of not being separated from our families. Vengo de los sacrificios que ha hecho mi mamá para que tenga una vida mejor. I get motivation from her pushing me forward to succeed in my dreams.
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I Am Who I Want to Become by Arisbei P. (age 14) I am the dreams of my family for a better future. I am the reason my parents make sacrifices. I come from roots filled with positivity and determination. I get inspiration from the people who surround me. In the mirror, I see the person my parents hope I become. On my shoulders, I carry the weight of not being enough. In my dreams, I imagine a better version of who I want to become. I have the power to make it far in life, giving my parents the determination to keep going.
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The Power of Our Antecedents by Bryan T. M. (age 14) With our voices, we can speak and act for our dreams. Our actions affect us as much as they do others. In our hands, we hold the vision of people who powered us. We show how achieving goals comes from hard work. Together, we can carry the weight of our ancestors. We connect our hope with the control from those who came before us. We are the influence of our predecessors, giving us aspirations to accomplish anything. We will never forget what our forefathers went through to get us where we are today.
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El Poder por Danna L. (14 años de edad) Yo soy una persona que estará para todos en sus momentos difíciles. Vengo de una familia poderosa, fuerte, y guerrera, que siempre lucha por sus sueños. Su sacrificios valen millones. En el espejo, veo una chica guerrera que le encanta hacer deportes. En mis ojos está el reflejo de la luz. En mis sueños, imagino que no me verán derrotada, ni rendida. Tengo el poder en todo, todo lo que me propongo.
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Better Future by Devan M. (age 14) I am the hope and inspiration in the eyes of my friends and family. The strength of my ancestors will carry and guide me to a brighter tomorrow. I come from a long line of strength, inspiring me to create a better future for my family. Their sacrifices have helped me in times of need. In the mirror, I see the power and the will of my ancestors. I surround myself with hope and positive vibes so I can make good decisions. In my dreams, I imagine a better world for my legacy. I have the power to make and build a brighter future for the generations to come.
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Unity by Eduardo C.-N. (age 14) With our voices, we can protect our roots from dangers. The power inside us is stronger than the voices of others who talk bad about us. In our hands, we carry our family’s dream. We build a better tomorrow for our pueblo. Together, we rule the world. We bring unity to every Latino. We are part of a big family. We will never forget our ancestors’ sacrifices to bring hope to all of us.
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The Last Esperanza by Esperanza D. (age 14) I am my mom's last hope, the last hope for a brighter tomorrow, the new flower to bloom, surrounded by dead ones. The strength of their whispers, the whispers of those around me, will forever stick by my side, even in dark times. I come from my parents' sacrifices, carrying the better future. Their love pulls me close like a moth to a flame. Without them, all things in life would be filled with pain. In the mirror, I see the little girl who once yearned for everyone's approval, only receiving her parents’.
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In my hands, I hold the future, the future that my parents never grasped. On my shoulders, I feel warm palms, those of my parents, who will never leave me in the dark. In my dreams, I imagine the future. the future that my parents never fully got. Now, it all relies on their last “Esperanza.” I can create the dreams that my parents have had since they were younger than me.
The Burden, The Fight by Eva C. S. (age 14) “I am a human being", is what people say. “We are all skin and bone, blood and veins.” But how can we believe that when not everyone
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is praised for having a soul, for bleeding, for those that are clean and pure. My heart is not pure, nor is my soul. The scars upon my skin come from a span in time, lost in the thoughts that once consumed my soul. And yet, they tell me that I am not alone, that my ancestors were also as blind as me. But why? Why must I burrow down in this weight? I carry what those before me did. My ancestors’ grief and sorrow swallow me hollow, till there is nothing left. Their sacrifices are what make me, a buzzing sound in my eyes and ears
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forcing me to stay away from what is right or wrong. So, what am I to do if I cannot stay tall? My throat chokes back the words that speak my mind, but that glare in your eyes does nothing but bring tears back to mine. All I can do is cry. In my eyes, I see a fate, a fate where neither my mind nor soul still roams the earth, though a piece of me would always remain: the writing that always slipped out onto a piece of paper when I was alone, or even the funny videos I would pass along. But in the end, my fate is only in my hands, the same hands
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that wielded the blade, the same hands that cleaned up every mess, the same hands that shake whenever that topic comes up. In our hands, we hold a society where we belong. Together, we bring unity, peace, and connection. We must find the strength to once again stand and face the ice piercing our skin. We must fight for the future our ancestors had to kneel before. We hold that future in our hands. I hold that future in my hands, fighting to leave that fate behind me.
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Dreams of Community by Ezmei (age 14) With our voices, we can speak up for those who have been silenced. The power inside us can bring back families if we stick together as a community. In our hands, we hold onto each other, while carrying tears, pain, and dread everywhere we go. Together, we spread positivity and fight back for the hands that feed us. We should not have to be afraid of getting accused of being an immigrant just because we are moreno. We are family, we deserve to stick together. We will never forget how you tore families apart. We are the community you see in your dreams, and the community you wish you had.
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Struggle and Success by Fabian F. (age 14) Even though I reach out with my voice, I still find it difficult with what words to say. In the mirror, I see someone who can do something, who has struggle on his shoulders, but still chooses to chase his future. I am the success that I see. Together, we use our words to communicate with one another to create something that we want for the future. We are people who have a voice and power to make a change, finding strength to express ourselves and be happy every day.
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Camino al Futuro por Henry B. (14 años de edad) Yo soy los sueños y las esperanzas de mi familia y de mi pueblo. Vengo de la raíz de sus sacrificios. En el espejo, veo un niño siguiendo sus sueños. Imagino un futuro donde veo mis logros.
El Camino de Mis Sueños por Jairo A. (14 años de edad) Yo soy la esperanza de mis padres para pasar nuestros raíces al futuro. Yo vengo de sus sacrificios que me motivaron para ayudarlos. En mis recuerdos, puedo ver mis padres cargándome en sus hombros. En el futuro, puedo crear una buena vida para mi familia.
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Power Within by Jose C. (age 14) With our voices, we can help others, for our words give power, even if it seems powerless. In our hands, we embrace the similarities and differences from our community, for we come from the same past. Together, we choose to rise and overcome the people who thought negatively of us. We are a product of our people’s past, their choices, their work, and their culture. We shall never forget.
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Logica por Josue H. (14 años de edad) Con nuestras voces, podemos hablar. Our words are words. En nuestras manos, tenemos dedos. Our future is in one second. Juntos, podemos lograr cosas. We bring unity to make evil go away. We are humans. We will never forget that we have hands and fingers.
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Not In Vain by Khamiyah J. (age 14) With our voices, we can take others into consideration to become better, doing better for our people we give our heart to. In our hands, we carry the weight of our community, holding the hibiscus flower and embracing the light inside. We remember our words, our future, our motivation to make our people fit in within a society of inequality. We will never forget who burned our roots. Together, we stand proud with our gold skin and unique hair. I always remember my mother’s words, “Do not let the color
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of your skin bring you down. Embrace it.” We are the power inside of us. It is like the sun beaming on a hot, sunny day. We build a name for ourselves so our past does not bite us. Their blood, sweat, tears, and sacrifices for freedom will not be in vain. Together, we push for a brighter day. We push for our dreams.
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The Chase by Logan G. (age 14) I am the future of my people, the strength of my ancestors, burning as hot as the sun, through me. I come from a family of hard work, struggles, and dreams, their sacrifices molding my very being. In the mirror, I see a person with hopes and wishes, having the hunger to chase his ambitions. He holds on tight to what he has achieved, willing to face destiny, to create history. In my dreams, I imagine a life without hurry, my family living their lives without worries, having a foundation strong enough to mark our stories in glory.
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What Am I? by Luis F.-R. (age 14) I am the son, the powerful light my parents prayed and worked for. The strength of my guardians pressure me to survive and guide the potential I hide inside. I come from the past, the vision my ancestors reached for. Their sacrifices paved the way to the path I continue today. In the mirror, I see a stranger, a person I know on the outside, just not on the inside. I reach out, hoping for an explanation, but in reality I find nobody, just an exploration. In my dreams, I imagine a future where my people
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can feel seen, without a bright beam, pointing at only what other people see. With our voices, we can fight back for what is ours, the looted and polluted land that we thrive in. We inspire the future, the young people we love, the person that every time you see you give a big hug. We all have the power to seek and speak, changing the way people see us to stop calling us freaks.
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El Eco de Mis Raices por Mafer V. (14 años de edad) Yo soy la esperanza y sueños de mi madre, un fuego que arde en la sombra del olvido, la voz callada de mis antepasados. Cargo el sudor de mi familia, luchando por florecer en la libertad de mi gente. Vengo del amor ardiente de mis padres y el fruto de un futuro lleno de luchas y promesas. La lucha me hace brillar. Sus esperanzas me dan la valentía. Tomó motivación de las promesas venideras puestas sobre mis hombros. En el espejo, veo la determinación de querer levantar el orgullo de mis antepasados. Con mi voz, gritaré las injusticias
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de tiempos pasados. En mi alma, llevaré el peso de los sueños rotos. Imagino la nobleza de mi tierra efímera llena de amor e ilusión. Tengo el poder de representar y rememorar la inocencia de mi pueblo que ha sido tergiversada y apagada. Con nuestras voces, podemos tejer la historia, susurrar secretos de ancestros lejanos, cada palabra un eco de luchas y sueños, un canto que une generaciones en el viento, donde el pasado y el presente danzan en enmienda. El poder dentro de nosotros nos une y nos hace más fuertes.
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My Roots, My Story by Marco M. (age 14) I am the voice of my ancestors, the strength of those who came before me. I carry their dreams, their courage, and their love. A piece of their journey lives inside me. I come from a culture full of tradition, from stories, family, and memories passed down. I come from people who worked hard and stayed strong, building a legacy that I proudly carry on. In the mirror, I see someone connected to the past, a reflection of generations that made me who I am. I see my roots, my history,
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and my pride, a story of my ancestors standing by my side. In my dreams, I imagine a future filled with hope, where I continue the legacy my ancestors wrote. I dream of success, of making them proud, honoring my roots by standing tall and loud.
The Push by Selene N. (age 14) I am the voice, the voice that is frustrated, frustrated at a country treating my people like the dirt they stepped on, while killing and breaking families. I come from people who have been pushed, pushed from their own land
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but remained resilient through it. That idea pushes me. Their struggles, their pains keep me going on days I feel hopeless. I do this so we can keep our songs alive, our food hot, our clothes cleaned. In the mirror, I see someone scared, scared to speak of the horrors and dreams only to end with a bullet through the head. In my eyes, I see the same kid who saw their culture at its best, at its finest, most known, most powerful across the state. In my dreams, I imagine peace not for me, nor just for my people, but for everyone. Everyone
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deserves peace. It is a right, no matter if your pockets are ripped or you were born a different way, look a different way, sound a different way. Our lives are in the hands of irresponsible people who pay for their teeth to be brushed, for their shoes to be shined. Their glasses are clinking while people’s eyes stop blinking. They silence the voices with green, dollar bills. Attempts to silence the screams and cries should never stop someone, stop anyone from speaking out and sharing the truth that some are scared to utter: We must never let them break our spirits.
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Motivation by Abigail S. (age 15) I am the light in my mother’s eyes, her hope for years ahead. I will always remember the tears she cried, and the life she has led. I come from a broken family with no one to depend on other than my mom. Her determination is what keeps me going and helps me move along. I try to be my best for her and for my brothers. In the mirror, I see the person I hope to become. On my shoulders, I carry the weight of being the oldest, a role model for my siblings. In my dreams, I imagine a bright future with my family and everyone I love. I believe I can do great things with my family's support and adoration.
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Voice and Power by Adrian C. (age 15) I am the hope for a better future. I get inspiration from people who do not think that I can succeed. I come from a bright, shining star that always encourages me. Their determination to see me succeed is enough to make me keep going. In the mirror, I see the voice of power, the voice of change. With my voice, I can change anything, because my voice is my power. Your voice is your power and power leads to change. In my dreams, I imagine not letting opinions hold me back from my goals. My future
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should not be held back because of others or the way they see me. They do not know me. So, why let them affect me? Why let them change me?
Change by Alejandro M. (age 15) With our voices, we can change the eyes that see Latinos and Hispanics as a threat or someone who should not be here, and change the brains that think they are not allowed to show pride in who they are. In our hands, we hold the power to show the future of the world how to treat each other with respect and equality. Together, we can stand up to the thought of labeling
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and discrimination against people just because they are different. We can change the idea that imaginary lines are what make us different. We are human. We are the dreams and wishes our parents and ancestors had for us. Let this be a sign that you can change the rules and ideas of the world through words.
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Pride and Power by Alexander A. (age 15) I am the boy whose parents come from the other side of the border. I will always remember their journey, crossing the Rio Grande and landing in a strange world. I come from people who never stopped working hard for a better life. I get motivation from those whose situation never stalled their drive to give their kids a better life. In the mirror, I see two people's vision of a brighter future for their kin. On my shoulders, I carry the hopes and dreams of a kid who never once gave up. In my fantasies, I imagine a future where I look in the mirror and can say, “I am proud of who
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I became.” I have the power to create a tomorrow where I, and anyone who looks like me, can look at ourselves and think, “I am proud of my people.”
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Reality and Dreams by Ana S. (age 15) I am the hope in my mom’s eyes. I will never forget the voices that told me to never give up. I come from a calm place, my family’s love. Their voices are music to my ears. In the mirror, I see the sacrifices my family and I went through, along with my future. In my dreams, I imagine that I can create and build a better place for us. With our voices, we can speak up for our community, because we belong. In our hands, we hold the concept, the power to create change and express ourselves. Together, we grow our wings. We find strength in each other. We are the dreams of reality.
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The Kid Who Makes His Family Proud by Angel C. (age 15) I am the one who takes my family to a greater future. I will never forget who supported me through this journey. I come from the motherland of dreams. My family’s sacrifices will be worth it in the end and we will live in peace. In the mirror, I see the light at the end of the tunnel, waiting for me. I surround myself with humble people who are willing to help others without anything in return. Then, I will succeed in life. In my dreams, I imagine my family being proud and living in peace. With our voices, we can achieve anything, be
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what we want to be, create what our minds see. We speak for the ones who stepped on this land before us and for the future generations. In our hands, we have the power to be better than our ancestors.
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Dreams of Light by Anthony R. (age 15) I am the dreams that my dad has been thinking. I will never forget los consejos de mi padre. I come from nothing to grow up with everything. The struggle makes me push harder. In the mirror, I see a kid que no cumplio his dreams, surrounding himself with hatred and negative thoughts. In my dreams, I imagine a first generation, successful son. I have the power to push myself into the light and out of the darkness.
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Associated by Dashiel C. (age 15) With our voices, we can explain how different cultures and people can connect and inspire sensation. In our hands and hearts, we can hold something from everyone, the things that matter. Together, we create a community where our ethics can help one another. Our community makes us or helps us to communicate and be connected. We are people who brought harmony to each other. We will always remember that we will always be helpful.
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Dark and Light by Delylah H. (age 15) I will never forget the horrors I saw in Arizona, even though they say, “We are sorry!” Looking at this, are you really? I come from a strong tribe. I carry the roots of my ancestors in my eyes as they look out from the mound from which we came, guiding me through the stars. In the mirror, I see lighter skin, but I know my blood. The struggle makes me sick, seeing the same color that wronged us so many years ago in my skin. In my dreams, I imagine their sacrifices and determination just to get second-hand
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land. I reach out and surround myself with the truth, knowing that what is done in the dark will be shown in the light.
Ancestors’ Dreams by DJ (age 15) I am the dreams of my ancestors who had to fight to survive, personified justice, for those with no voice. I am what corruption fears, the fighting spirit of the people, tired of greed. I come from attempts of assimilation, the struggle of women who fought back against erasure. I come from power and justice. I come from the dreams of a Native/Chicano woman who could not read/write, but led with heart.
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In the mirror, I see a combination of people who fell in love, and chose to carry it on, the faces of men and women, who chose love over and over again. I see the faces of my ancestors. In my dreams, I imagine a perfect world with no prejudice, no hardships, no struggle, just peace and unification. I dream of no division, no oppression, no class, just people, coexisting in unity.
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Future Success by Dylan D. (age 15) I am the success to future generations. I come from my homeland, Aguascalientes, where I get inspiration from my parents and grandparents to never give up on my goals. In the mirror, I see a Mexican boy who is trying to make it far in life. In my dreams, I imagine that I always keep going. With our voices, we can make our dreams into success for future generations.
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Our Dreams by Gianni E. (age 15) With our voices, we can speak up for change and for what is right. In our hands, we hold the key to our future. Together, we can build a better tomorrow for ourselves. We are humans that must change the world to make it a better place.
On My Shoulders by Giovanni R. (age 15) I come from my roots. My family’s determination is in my hands and on my shoulders. In the mirror, I see my future. I get inspiration from my voice and my roots all together. I will never forget to reach out and grab my destiny.
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The Ticket by Isaac Q.-G. Jr. (age 15) I am the ticket to my family's success. I carry the reputation of their last name. I come from the blood, sweat, and tears of my parents. Their sacrifices make me want to work harder. In the mirror, I see the man I want to become. In my hands is the power to change the future. In my dreams, I imagine myself getting my name out into the world. My future relies on my actions.
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I Do Not Want to Be Silenced Anymore by Isabel R. (age 15) With our voices, we can reach out for the future we wanted so badly growing up. Now, we will inspire those with a voice to get away from the void stopping them. In our hands, we carry the love given to us, building a stronger bond for those who lack the feeling of belonging. We reach out with gentle hands ready to lead those who do not want to bleed any longer. Together, we connect our broken pieces from the puzzle
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we built, day by day, knowing that it can all return to the beginning, restarting the timing of our future, of our success. We are the dreams of our ancestors who could not get the chance to make theirs come true, stopped too early from believing, from achieving. They left us with those dreams to hold onto and cherish. I will have the power to stand up and be free, showing everyone that no matter what happens, you still have a voice, you still can believe, growing into the person you aspire to be.
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El Orgullo De La Vida por Jabier C. (15 años de edad) Yo soy el orgullo en los ojos de mi madre. Yo nunca olvidaré esa pequeña esperanza que siempre me tiene. Vengo del café más famoso del mundo. Yo tengo motivación de los sacrificios y esfuerzos de mi madre. En el espejo, veo un futuro que tengo pa brillar. En mis hombros, cargó la responsabilidad de mi futuro dándole esperanza a mi familia. En mis sueños, imagino como cada gota de sudor de mi gente será recompensado. Yo, y solo yo, tengo el poder de tomar mis decisiones, con quién estar, a dónde ir, siempre dejándome llevar por lo que le hace bien a mi futuro.
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Never Forget by Joshep R. (age 15) Con nuestras voces, podemos cumplir promesas y motivarnos para lograr sueños realidad. Our words are powerful. In our hands, we have the power to create a new future. Juntos, podemos lograr un mejor futuro para generaciones que van a llegar. Together, we have motivation to do it better. We are Latinos buscando a better life in other countries. Never forget who you are and where you come from.
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China Doll by Kimberli B. (age 15) I am the broken glass my mother steps on. I give her pain as I remind her that she was the thorns to a rose. I will always remember when I used to let the thorns stab me and my siblings because we never knew that not all roses are supposed to hurt. I come from a broken line of family. Everything in every way breaks like a glass, China doll. We live in grey fields trying to find those colored in hopes and grace, instead of ones filled with anger and sorrow. In the mirror, I see a mangled, China doll with band aids trying to keep me from cracking. In my eyes, I can only see the pain and sorrow
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my siblings have in their hands, and the boulder my older brother carries on his shoulders for us. In my dreams, I imagine that my brother carries nothing but joy and my siblings hold colors in their hands. I choose not to be a brittle doll, to only be a bright, free soul, so my father does not have to worry for pleas of help from his children anymore.
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Confidence by Navaya W. (age 15) I am the future of Walkers, Mitchells, and past generations of sacrifice that I keep in mind to motivate me. We are taught confidence in our skin that varies in shades but I cannot find mine, no matter the complements. I come from my mom’s determination and my grandma's care, a little bit of everywhere, small bits of everything. The struggles make me, inspiring me daily to be stronger and aim higher than the stars, because my grandma said I could. In the mirror, I see a strong but flawed and misunderstood darkskin girl. On my shoulders, I carry the weight
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and worry that someone will say something, or that I will never be enough in their eyes. Negative thoughts surround me, building up hurt that is forced to be hidden, because I am the happy friend. In my dreams, I imagine success, hurt by a passed down curse I should have buried in the dirt. I imagine the woman I hope to become and the kid I hope to let go. But still, I am unknowingly choosing to hold onto that girl I saw in the mirror at 4 because my confidence may lie in her.
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My Responsibility by Quaylon T. (age 15) I am responsible for my dreams. I come from a single mother, out of the dirt and have kept going. I come from football, all the sweat and tears from all the pain and work. It finally paid off, and my future looks successful. In my dreams, I open the gates for my future. On my shoulders, I have my family believing me and supporting me throughout the process.
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An Immigrant’s Bright Future by Sebastian M. (age 15) I am the future of our family, the person who accomplishes their hopes, the boy who carries their dreams, making our future shine bright like a beam. I come from a town built with blood, sweat, and tears with the sun high, colors bright, and winds light. It is so beautiful, it can make a man say, “Wow!” with a burning heart and enough respect to bow. In the mirror, I see the man my ancestors would value, despite the problems that would make people mad and argue. In a time with racism, inequality, and injustice, now is an era when my brothers and I
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should find justice. In my dreams, I imagine all my migrant brothers and sisters being respected. But inequality is abusive, leaving our hope neglected. As an immigrant, I carry mountains on my back through the night. My heart burns like a sun turning struggle into light. With our voices, we rise like eagles through the sky, refusing to be denied. As Chicanos, we face walls of prejudice, yet we push through with hope as our guide. Inequality is a dark storm, but our spirits shine bright. Together, we turn pain into power, darkness into light.
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The Roots Of The New World by Sioape T. (age 15) Our voices are silver needles, stitching shut the hunger in the streets, giving a song to the empty hearts that forgot how to speak. In our hands, we cradle the soil of a world that has lost its way, turning the heavy "nothing" into stars that light the day. We are the architects of a house built from threads of skin, where the windows stay open to let everyone’s light in. We are the harvest of a long and ancient prayer, carrying our ancestors' strength in the very breaths we share. We are the sparks that finally set the gloomy shadows free, growing a forest of hope from the seeds of "you and me.”
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This Cruel World by Xitlali E. (age 15) I am a lovable disaster. I might be a handful but I am worth it. I carry the tears within just so you will not notice the empty pieces that I hold deep inside. I come from a cruel world, a cruel place. The struggle makes me feel useless. In the mirror, I see myself as I once was in 7th grade. In my dreams, I imagine a world where there is nothing but happiness. My future holds great things in this cruel world.
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Dreams Coming True by Yaretzi L. (age 15) I am the dreams of my family for a better tomorrow. I will always remember the day I gave a thank you card to my mom, dad, and brother. I come from a family who wants to see me accomplish my goals. Their love is like a blanket keeping me warm, making me feel safe. In the mirror, I see my mom encouraging me to be a better person. In my eyes, my family is the best thing that I have ever had. In my dreams, I imagine myself working hard in a good job, just how my family wanted to see. I have the power to make my dreams come true.
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Familia Adelante by Yuliana C. (age 15) With our voices, we can gather nuestra raza y unir a nuestra familia. The power inside us can speak up for our families that are struggling y sacarlas adelante. In our hands, we have the power to take our family to a better future. We carry our parents’ sacrifices, promising to give them much more. Together, we can influence others a llevar nuestra familia adelante y ponernos las pilas. Our community can see how much us Mexicans work hard para salir adelante y tener lo mejor. We are our families’ hope to be successful
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y siempre llevar nuestra cultura con nosotros. We will always remember where we come from, a hard-working family. Being successful es algo que nuestros antepasados quieren ver.
El Futuro es Nuestro por Ashley (16 años de edad) Yo soy el sueño de una mejor vida. Yo siempre recordaré de donde vengo, de donde soy, y donde estaré. I come from the struggle in Mexico. I get motivation based on real-world problems that are going on there. In the mirror, I see un buen futuro. In my hands, I have the power to be someone in life, even though I might need to go through a lot of things.
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With our voices, we can speak for nuestra vida. In our hands, we have the power to build our own future. We hold el pasado, el presente, y el futuro. Juntos, podemos trabajar en lo que nos proponemos en la vida, lo igual que nos proponemos cada dia. This way we can achieve what we want. We are the dreams of a perfect life and future. We will always remember what we went through.
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Strangers From The Same Seed by Bailee L. (age 16) I am the Earth around me, brought up by the stars and hot beams from the sunshine. My roots are in these soils, sprouted by the droughts once handed to me. I come from the Earth's fresh soil with fragments of burnt-out star dust but the ground was never “green.” We get motivation when we allow the world to be open and free. So, how come we take the beauty from our bouquets with petals of varieties? In the mirror, I see a “withered” flower making her own way to the trees. But, is that what you really see? On my shoulders,
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all that was handed to me was a boulder weighing on top of a precious, hibiscus seed. In my dreams, I imagine a field of flowering stars being welcomed and feeling free. But, when we look in the mirror, is that what any of us sees? Even though we evolved from the same seed, why is it so hard to see who we all really need? With our voices, we can tell our stories and allow the flowers around you to feel like they are blooming too. The power in our soil's roots gives the courage to reach for the sun's heat for other seeds
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too. In our hands, we grasp our fragile petals as though they are a rock, just waiting to be another still in bloom. We reach out to fields for courage. But, they stare and say, “Well, there is nothing I can do.” and they turn away. But, are we holding them like a rock to throw, or squeezing them so tight that they will turn to stone? Together, we snatch those fragile rocks and smash them under the moon. But, why do we not make them feel like they are flowers too? We connect our fields
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through our soil’s foods. So, how come we steal each other's food and allow them to starve in salvation? We are dust scattered without each other. So, just help everyone find their way back to another. Our roots in our soils are who we are, together. So, our dust should not be the rock weighing on top of each other.
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The Light by Luis J. (age 16) I am the hope of my mother’s dreams. I will never forget the blood, sweat, and tears she sacrificed for me. I come from the struggle on my shoulders, carrying it everywhere, everyday. I get inspiration from the light that God sends my way. In the mirror, I see the roots of my ancestors. With my voice, I can return the favor to my mentors. With our voices, we can support others to follow their dreams. Our words are powerful like sunbeams. Together, we form a bond that can never break. In this way,
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we guide each other to avoid making a mistake. In our hands, we carry the strength to help our community be strong as one. We have the power to stop injustice, fighting this battle until we have won.
Raices en el Exito por Alina R. (17 años de edad) Con nuestras voces, podemos inspirar a otros a nunca olvidar de dónde vienen. Nosotros hablamos por aquellos que callaron su dolor para darnos un futuro, por nuestra tierra, nuestras costumbres y el orgullo de ser quienes somos. En nuestras manos, nosotros hacemos que valga la pena el sueño por el que ellos migraron lejos del hogar.
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Nos ponemos en contacto con nuestras raíces para fortalecer nuestro camino. Juntos, podemos gritar al mundo que somos grandes, herederos de grandes anhelos. Nustra motivación es demostrar, que como migrantes, no hay meta que no podamos alcanzar. Somos la voz de los que cruzaron horizontes buscando un nuevo sol. Tenemos el poder de ser el puente hacia el destino que ellos abrieron.
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Reflection of Strength by Angel C. (age 17) When I look in the mirror, I see a boy who has been through problems and difficult times, but who has learned to overcome them all. That reflection reminds me that I am brave. In my dreams, I imagine myself becoming someone important, not to be greater than anyone else, but to help. I want my goals to serve to support others, so that they, too, may fulfill their own desires. With our voices, we can speak our hearts. In our hands, we hold the future to build it. If we stand together, we are far stronger. We are the present that never forgets where it comes from.
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I Belong by Anneliese P. (age 17) I have the ability to do what I want with the strength of being unique. I come from diversity, and the determination to be my own person. In the mirror, I see the strength of kindness. In your eyes, we might look different, but our hearts are the same. In my dreams, I imagine inclusion. I can create a world for people like me.
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Believe in a Legacy by Christopher C. (age 17) I am the person to hold my parents’ dreams, completing what they could not. I am their legacy to prove that if they could not, they would make sure that I could. They came to a new country for the American dream, with the hope of me becoming a better human being. I come from a flower with nothing but hopes and dreams of growing. I have strong roots but not good soil. My ancestors planted a seed knowing I will change the way people see. In the mirror, I see the person I want to be waiting on the other side of the finish line, saying: “You will make it, you just need to believe. Everything happens for a reason so do not judge the creator. He made this path, all you need to do is be faithful.”
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Side vs Side by Daniel L. (age 17) We are humans. We create sides and then, choose the side we stay. Separation and hate always occurs together. Different ideologies create tensions within groups. One side can coexist with the other but not the other way around. It is not the leaders of the sides who are affected, but the lives of ordinary people, just because the prideful cannot agree with one another. We have created separation of potential bonds, unable to agree on the same things. But, does any of it really matter?
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The Future I See by Daniel R. (age 17) I am the pride of my family. I will always remember my parents telling me to finish school. I come from two sides of blood. I will always carry peace. In the mirror, I see a successful person starting my own business. In my dreams, I imagine money and cars in my future, helping my parents.
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Our Desire by Dayana M. T. (age 17) I am the next generation carrying a strong heritage like a bulletproof vest, protected por nuestra gente. I come from rich colors and traditions in bailes folkloricos. I come from pan dulce and the never-ending fiestas with my whole family. I also come from sacrifices and a resilient determination, gracias a nuestros papás y abuelos. They used this as a weapon, fighting in our struggles. When I look in the mirror, I see a reflection, the living proof of a legacy passed down and filled with pride. I imagine fulfilling an unfinished dream and desire, often shut down by those in power. “Illegals do not belong here,”
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they say. I’m sorry, who are you again? Those “illegals,” you have the entitlement to call, are the reason I have a future at all. They came here to work, starting with nothing. They are welcomed with mistreatment as “aliens,” not humans who give me everything. So, we speak up in unison. Together, we can create a greater unity to change our community. We have a voice! We enforce that first amendment, speaking for our people censored by those with pure resentment. We walk our path head held high, embracing our roots
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and thriving for a better future soon. Now, more than ever, we hold that light, ready to fight and pass it on brighter and fierce like never before. Lo hacemos por nuestros hermanos, por nuestros papas, por Mexico representado, por nuestro legado.
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Siguiendo Mis Sueños por Deilibeth A. (17 años de edad) Yo soy el sueño de mi familia, la luz de los ojos de mi madre. I will always remember los bellos momentos. I have the strength de mantenerme siempre de pie, y tratar de nunca caer. Vengo de un país lleno de riqueza. The struggle me hace cada dia mas fuerte. I get inspiration en cumplir todas mis metas y seguir mis sueños. En el espejo, veo una grandiosa mujer con mucha fortaleza. In my hands, tengo el control de my future. En mi sueños, imagino a una mujer valiosa, llena de esperanza. I have the power de lograr todos mis sueños y seguir adelante sin miedo.
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Pour Me Some Family by Isaac H. (age 17) I am a last name that is ashamed to be said. Its history ends selfishly with me, as I speak proudly of it. I come from hands that could not shape me, despite sharing the same heritage. They were determined to forge a son who follows their shadow. Instead, he grows one of his own to create new beginnings. In the mirror, I see a face I have grown to appreciate, one once filled with qualities of hate, now seeing victims of insecurities. In my dreams, I imagine becoming more, into the man I shaped myself to be, despite the pressure of living with simplicity.
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Espinas y Pétalos por John C. (17 años de edad) Ella era tan hermosa, tan hermosa como una flor que crece en primavera. Ella era tan única, tan especial como ver una rosa con espinas, unas espinas que yo estaba dispuesto a agarrar. La agarré aun sabiendo el daño que me llegaria hacer. Pero eso no me importaba. Porque ella era tan especial para mi que no me di cuenta que poco a poco me estaba muriendo, sosteniendo sus hermosas espinas. Eran unas espinas que poco a poco estaban desgarrando mi corazón, dejando cicatrices y el daño irreparable. Pero aun así, la sosteni. La sosteni con toda la delicadeza
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y amor que podía dar. Poco a poco, me iba muriendo. Aun asi, todavia tenia la fuerza para seguir sosteniendo entres mis brazos la rosa. Poco a poco se le iban cayendo los pétalos. Al caerse el último pétalo, ahi encontres mi fin.
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Inclusion by Laura M. (age 17) Vengo de una familia con más amor. They live in a world made for me. In the mirror, I see all the abilities I am capable of, not a disability. I surround myself with people who love me for who I am. Con nuestras voces, podemos gritar para que nos escuches. Our words are not always heard. With our hands, we fidget with the world around us. We create inclusion.
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Futuro Hermoso por Nahima C. (17 años de edad) Yo soy el orgullo de mi familia, y su esperanza de salir adelante. Siempre voy a recordar cada palabra y cada consejo que me dan mis padres. Vengo de otro país para cumplir cada sueño que tengo en mente. Es la determinación que uno tiene, siemipre con fe en que todo se cumplirá. En el espejo, veo un futuro hermoso que me espera. Como dice, “Las cosas tardan en llegar pero son mucho mejores.’’ En mis ojos, veo ese gran futuro. Pienso mucho en cada esfuerzo que hago para que pronto tener una recompensa muy linda. En mis sueños, imagino
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que todo se me cumplirá para un bien. My futuro será “maravilloso” porque pienso muy bien en hacer las cosas. Siento que será bonito para mi.
Lo Que Quedó de Nosotros por Najive O. (17 años de edad) Ya no encuentro en tu mirada la luz que antes me guiaba. Se fue apagando poco a poco lo que un día nos llenaba. Caminamos juntos un tiempo, entre sueños y promesas. Pero el tiempo y la distancia rompieron nuestras certezas. Ya no hay abrazos que calmen, ni palabras que den paz. Lo que fue amor verdadero
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hoy es solo un recuerdo más. Me duele aceptar el final, soltar lo que tanto quise. Pero sé que ya no somos lo que un día nos dijimos. Guardo lo bueno vivido, sin rencor, sin más dolor, porque a veces se pierde todo aunque haya habido mucho amor.
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Herencia de Tierra por Osvaldo R. (17 años de edad) Con nuestras voces, podemos derribar los muros del olvido y gritar que nuestra historia también cuenta. Estamos hablando por lo que el silencio calló, por lo que el camino de injusticia se llevó. En nuestras manos, nosotros tenemos el poder de llevar nuestra tierra en la piel. Nuestro futuro no tendrá fronteras que nos detengan. Juntos, podemos trenzar nuestra historia en un solo sentido y pintar al mundo con los colores de nuestra herencia. Nuestra comunidad es un tejido de mil raíces. Es nuestra voz que ya no podemos callar. Somos la prueba que el miedo no nos detiene. Somos la historia que el futuro contará
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con orgullo. Nuestros antepasados son el viento en nuestra espalda que nos empuja a luchar por expresión y libertad.
Two Worlds by Anahi T. (age 18) I was born between two worlds, one my parents left behind and one they gave me. Mi mama viene de Chihuahua with dreams bigger than fear. My dad comes from Durango with strength he never spoke about. They carried more than bags. They carried long days, sacrifices, little sleep, and faith that it would be worth it. At home,
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it sounds like Spanish, like my mom calling my name, like the stories of where they grew up. Outside, it feels different: new rules, new expectations, a world I had to learn while holding on to who I am. Sometimes, it holds a weight on my shoulders, like I have to make it all count, like I cannot fail. Then, I remember: I am their dream in motion. Every step I take is something they once prayed for. I am first generation, not lost between two worlds, but built from both, in my name in my blood in everything I become.
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Inner Thoughts by Ashley M. (age 18) I am the blood, sweat, and tears of my family, I will always remember the sacrifices they made for me. I come from the love and pressure with every hope. My family’s love is like the weight of boulders on my shoulders. In the mirror, I see anxious eyes staring back at me, scared of what the future holds for her family. In my hands are the expectations that are placed on me. In my dreams, I imagine a world where we can chase our dreams, without running from reality. Even though the road is rough, it is still a possibility.
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Shouldering the Load by Daniel H. (age 18) I am the power, a good future for those whose path was blocked. I carry our hardships and continue with a heart that shoulders the load. I come from the struggles of those who never had anything to work with, yet possessed their determination. In the mirror, I see myself as the first generation to complete and succeed in their plans. I surround myself with high walls to keep climbing. In my dreams, I find connection to the source, where ancestry’s river flows with endless force.
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Raíces y Sueños por Daniela L. (18 años de edad) Yo soy la niña que salió de casa sin importarle nada. Miro los consejos en un espejo como un reflejo. Se ve mi esfuerzo. Siempre voy a recordar mis raíces. Cargo conmigo una historia de lucha. Sostengo en mi corazón la memoria de donde vengo. Vengo de una familia llena de amor, fortaleza, historia, sacrificio, valentía, y esperanza. Vengo de raíces profundas que guían mis pasos, y de sueños que me guían quien soy. En el espejo, veo a una persona que crece cada día, alguien fuerte, amable, y llena de propósito. Veo mi pasado,
Words To Power
mi cultura, y mi corazón brillando con orgullo y determinación. En mis sueños, imagino un futuro hermoso, donde mi voz pueda inspirar a otros. Veo una manana llena de éxitos, felicidad, y paz, donde construya una vida que haga sentir orgullosa a mi familia. Siempre voy a recordar sus sacrificios. Cargo conmigo mis raíces en el corazón. Con mi voz y mis palabras, tengo el poder en el amor. Mi futuro es brillante y puedo construirlo con valentía.
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Rumbo Sin Destino por Gabriel G. (18 años de edad) Yo soy el filo que corta la brecha emocional que me ata a un pasado clandestine. Siempre voy a recordar el primer día que usé la melancolía para olvidar el cambio estacional de mi cuerpo. Vengo de una tierra manchada por la sangre de inocentes que han vivido un infierno en vida. Los sacrificios rebosan las mentes frágiles de los corruptos y el dolor que formó los caminos de la generación con la esperanza de ser eternos. En el espejo, veo los sueños fragmentados que se perdieron en un vacío oscuro sin retorno. En mis ojos es la llama de la voluntad que me recuerda de las batallas libradas que me encaminan a la victoria.
Words To Power
En mis sueños, imagino la razón por la que desafió el destino previsto, con la tinta de la esperanza para cambiar lo escrito. Puedo crear un futuro que parece imposible, por el espíritu del niño que soñó ser alguien.
Soaring For the Skies by Melanie G. (age 18) I am the hope of my family for a better tomorrow. I envision myself chasing my dreams, my ancestors watching me with pride. In the mirror, I see a person with potential, someone who can achieve all her goals. In my eyes, a light shines, gleaming with hope. In my dreams,
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I imagine a place where I am fully at peace living my life, where I can create everything I please. My future maybe mostly unpredictable but I know in my heart, bright places are waiting for me. Together, we are a community prepared to foster love and creativity out to the world. We will never forget our roots and our ancestors. We will keep building on their legacies, all in hope for a better tomorrow.