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 standing up for what is right, shining your light: You are truly the dreams of your ancestors. We need you to be powerful! We all must be.
Acknowledgments
Thank you to the powerful high school students who submitted your inspiring poems to this book. Special thank you to the schools that partnered with us during the 2024-2025 school year. We look forward to working with you again! We greatly appreciate the financial support from Arts In Society, Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, Colorado Creative Industries, Denver Arts & Venues, Rose Community Foundation, TDB Family Foundation, and 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 and student presentations), 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 book of poetry from the Denver area edited, published, and distributed by Words To Power. Previous themes have included:
• “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 2025, the “We Are The Dreams Of Our Ancestors” theme inspired powerful submissions from 231 youth, all of whom participated in Words To Power's poetry workshops and student presentations (for more information, see wordstopower.org). Volume 3 is the collection of poems from 102 students in our partner high schools. We know their words will touch your heart and inspire you to be powerful during these difficult times.
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 an annual book 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.
The People by Alexander Santos (age 14)
I am the laughter you hear in the hallway. Mis raíces vienen de la risa de mi gente.
I come from a family who wants to see me succeed. Sus sacrificios make this a world that empowers me.
In the mirror, I see diversity, the vast spectrum. With my voice, l speak for those who cannot.
In my dreams, I imagine people standing strong together. I can create a community for those just like me
Treasure by Analy
Martinez-Resendiz
With our voices, we can lift nuestra raza y unir a nuestras familias. Our spirits are full of determination that inspire the people who surround us.
In our hands, we hold our history, las mismas historias que los conquistadores no quieren escuchar. Our future is waiting for us. The celebrations for our bravery inch closer every day.
Together, we fight for our freedom and take back our fortune. This very land that we reside in, is our ancestors’ treasure. Was the cruel, white man not clever?
We are the voice that speaks loud for those who cannot. Dreams are becoming reality. Do not forget your roots. Our ancestors above watch with pride.
(age 14)
Hopes and Dreams by Aron Simental Conde (age 14)
I am my family's hopes and dreams poured into a human mold, hardened, and given life. I come from a family who would give me the world and more, simply if I asked. Their sacrifices have given me the motivation and strength to want to repay them. In the mirror,
I see myself living my life to the fullest, as I age, inevitably growing old. In our hands, we create our future. We build it one by one, from the ground up, and far above the sky. It is built from the hopes and dreams, of not only us, but our ancestors who came before us, latching theirs onto us.
I imagine a world where we get to live our lives to the fullest without struggle and suffering.
I believe that we have the power to change not only ours but everyone else's life. But at the end of the day, we are who we are. We are everything we love, hate, and believe in.
We are everything everywhere, all at once.
The Last Drop by D'von Garcia (age 14)
I am the final drop from that bottle my father held so dearly, the drop he wished lasted a bit longer, felt a bit warmer, but was never enough for him. I come from the sounds of screaming, the sounds of glass breaking, the sounds produced by the place where dreams go to die. It is the place no one dares to go unless put, the place you can only pray to get out of because it shows you that every day could be your last. It is where so many came before you and never had the chance to make it out. I am the dreams of those no longer, the ones who caught the bullet aimed for me, the ones who I ran faster than, the ones who found a good enough hiding spot, the ones who were just unlucky to be in the wrong spot at the wrong time. I will be the light, blue tint in the sky, the person I was told never came out of the street I grew up on. I will be the hope of my mom, trying to get out for so much longer than I have.
I will be the whole case of beer just so my father does not get the satisfaction of not one in the whole case. I will be what I want to be because that is what I decided, not the place and people around me.
My Dreams by Eric M. (age 14)
I am the dreams that make my future right. The strength of my faith keeps the road ahead bright. When I accomplish my dream, I will look in the mirror and see a badge with numbers that inspires others. With my voice, I will speak for the people to unlock opportunities we never knew we could have.
We think that the smoke and a couple of bottles will help us out but how are we supposed to deal with the pain if we keep running away? Our dreams are like stars, the ones we work for shine bright, but the ones we give up on do not give off light.
It might be a challenge to recover from the damage but I can manage. Every time I search for peace, I will not find it inside of me but around me, whether on a skateboard that makes the problems fly away or a friend that is sweet like a pear that relates to you in some way. After all those years, I will wear the gear. I will have to be brave and hide all my fears. At least they will be proud, dropping tears. When I reach the end of the road, I will have a hand that I can hold and a lot of people to call home. They will help me write the last chapters of my life.
Together by Gustavo (age 14)
With our voices, we can yell loud and proud, fighting for land that was supposed to be ours. Our words can change the perspectives of others. People will always push back the fact that they are on our land, but we can always fight back all the lies.
In our hands, we can control our future But this will not happen without a struggle, because of people who are corrupted or just flat out disrespectful.
Together, our voices can be heard because people with power cannot just disappear. We cannot achieve this if we all work alone. If so, it would seem like we are trying to talk to someone wearing headphones.
We are who we want to be. But please join together, because together, we can do something so much better.
In The Sky by Jose Martinez (age 14)
I am the light that wants to shine further than I could imagine. I will always remember my roots even when I am at the top. I came from the bottom of the ground. I rise to the sky because I never back down, I never give up. In the mirror, I see my family’s sacrifices making me the person I am today, striving to reach the sky. In my dreams, I imagine becoming the best version of myself, so my future could be as bright as the stars.
A Man of Pride by John the 3rd (age 14)
I am me, the man I want to be. I come from the city where john pork is calling me. In the mirror, I see the pride of my family, that I wish to show to those around me.
Dreams
to
Reality by Jorge Alejandro (age 14)
I am a man finding my purpose. I carry creativity within me. With every step I take, it hits me like a tide wave.
I come from a community full of hopes and dreams. I get motivation to help people plant a new tree of positivity with the power you have in the palm of your hands.
In the mirror, I see a man who never lets his mistakes and his past catch up to him while fighting for rights. With my voice, I can make people believe that they have strength growing within them.
We are Mexican people with powerful blood running through our veins.
In my dreams, I imagine a world of hope and kindness, as we support one another. I have the power to make the world a better place with the people around me helping each other.
Dreams of Peace by Jostenh (age 14)
I am wandering aimlessly, carrying the hopes and dreams my parents once had. I will always hold their wishes close to my heart. I come from the city of tears that helped me face my fears. The struggle makes me stronger and helps me conquer. In the mirror, I see my parents’ expectations that inspired my dreams. On my shoulders, I feel the weight of stress and mountains of schemes. In my dreams, I imagine myself fulfilling the goals my parents set for me. Or at the very least, I will rise above and find my peace.
Our Voices by Karen Gonzalez (age 14)
With our voices, we can speak for those who cannot. The power inside us is stronger than those who judge us. In our hands, we hold onto a strong and beautiful culture. We carry the future we want to create. Together, we can stand up for those who are afraid. We connect together as strong people who support each other. We will never forget those who have respect for us.
More by Karina Delgado (age 14)
I am more than where I come from. I am more than the red haze lingering in my eyes to avoid the thoughts behind them.
I carry the roots of my ancestors. I am what they lived for, to live on for generations.
En mis sueños, imagino su decepción al ver mis ojos colorados. They sacrificed everything. but for what? Their determination for a better life, for what?
My future holds the power and light that this clouded darkness now beholds.
I believe I can choose my future and make my ancestors proud.
The Weight by Kevin G. (age 14)
I am their only son, so I try harder to prove myself. I hold everything they have done on my shoulders.
I come from a Catholic family who expects more than I can give. Their sacrifices put more pressure on me than I need. In the mirror, I see a man taking care of his parents. On my shoulders, I carry the weight of their struggles.
In my dreams, I imagine my future bright like a star, shining green and filled with cash. I can create the best future for my parents by slaving away to make a better life for them, after sacrificing theirs for mine.
Birds by Lolita Santos (age 14)
In this cage, a wounded bird I am. Despite my wings being clipped, I wish to speak, speak against these cruel hunters. In this cage, locked for my safety, I cry for all I can do is see those other birds endure injustice. It hurts me directly to my soul All I can do is watch. Yes, I have a voice. But would they take tweets and chirps seriously? No, of course they would not. I would be turned into a joke, shut down almost immediately. I dream of a world where birds do not live in fear of simply leaving the nest. But in a world where we are seen as prey and profit, do our wings matter? Our voices? Our wings flap, trying to leave our cages, our futures. We dream that our chirps turn into something more, something more powerful, something that can change our fate. Because now, we are reliving past tragedies of those birds who once said,
“Never again.” Never again shall we be hunted. Never again shall we be trapped because of our “bad” selves. Never again shall we be treated like pests. We are not weak rats that can easily be removed. We are not the lesser kind even if in your eyes, we are “different.” Doesn’t diversity create strength?
El Futuro por Victor (14 años de edad)
Soy el futuro de mis padres.
Vengo de una familia bonita y cariñosa. Soy la esperanza de una ciudad y de la vida.
En el espejo, veo a un adolescente que será grande, queriendo ser más. Me recuerda que tengo que cumplir mis metas.
Juntos, somos los héroes de la vida.
El Destino de la Libertad by Mia Hernandez (age 14)
I come from sacrificios de mi madre y mi padre. I am the hope and the future of my family, thinking and dreaming, never forgetting my roots and how much I am proud of them.
Vengo de la lucha de algunos vale por el futuro de otros. Las cosas que mis ojos no han visto, mi mente recordará.
Vengo de barras de tristeza y dolor a lado de ríos de fé que no se secan y siguen corriendo por el corazón de las personas.
Viven en tierras de sueños rotos, donde el sol brilla y se alzan voces en el aire. Soy parte de cuerpos que luchan por el deseo de avanzar.
Somos unidos en la diversidad, con el puño alto y firme. Las protestas son un himno, un rugido que no se puede escuchar. Puedo oír la esperanza en cada latido porque aunque el camino sea largo, la libertad es el destino.
The Fight by Ace Martinez (age 15)
I come from a land, a land that was taken from me, from my ancestors. The white man's greed has done everything but set me free.
I reach out, trying to get myself out, get my ancestors out of this “better home.” This new home is just a broken one that lays on the entrapment and the bodies of my ancestors.
They tarnished my culture’s reputation, treating my people like a simulation and spreading our blood all over the nation.
They tell stories of their “success” when all they did was make my blood feel less.
This feeling of frustration comes from the assassinations and the white man’s immigration that brought hate and discrimination. They feed lies and manipulation
to their own nation like medication. They spread lies that my ancestors were the “bad guys,” the “instigators.” In reality, they are the traitors. They made promises of protection and friendship that did not even last a lustrum (5 years). Those truces were not the only things broken. So too were my ancestors’ hopes for peace, their hopes for companionship and friendship, their hopes for a better life. To this day, we still fight to overcome the strife.
There are those saying that they will “deport” my people back to where they came from. How are you going to deport people who are native to the land that you stole?
United States of America, how can you call yourself the land of the free, when you built this nation on the enslavement, entrapment, and pleas
of not just my people, but others as well? Is it because we are different, our cultures different, our native tongue different, our dress different, our hair different, our eyes different? Or is it because our skin tone is different and not white? That is the excuse for losing our “rights.” We just want to have peace, to live our lives according to our beliefs.
We know that we can find our light so our future can be bright at the end of this tunnel, at the end of this fight.
I Walk Toward the Light by Aeron Dialogo (age 15)
I am the artist who finishes the work they began, an artist who reaches for light where I can, an artist who walks through shadows deep, but steps toward the dawn, away from sleep.
I come from the darkness, still and cold, where dreams were quiet, and time took hold. But now, I rise toward brighter skies. With every choice, I lift, I rise.
In the mirror, I see the spark, a mind that battles through the dark. Each small decision lights the way, turning the night into day.
In my dreams, I imagine the glow of hidden strengths I have yet to know. The more I move, the more I fight, the more my path bursts into light.
With our voices,
we can call, lifting each other when we fall.
There is always hope, a shining ray, to chase the dark and clear the way.
In our hands, we hold a flame to light the world, to stake our claim. With steady work and hearts alive, we make shadows fade while our visions thrive.
Together, we can pierce the night. We push aside the fading fright. We rise. We shine. We show the way, transforming darkness into day.
We are the dreamers, fierce and bright. We turn shadows into light. With every step, we break the chain. We bring the sun through storm and rain.
When once again comes the night, I will rise. I will fight. I will walk toward the light.
Immigrant Power by Alex Galindo (age 15)
Together, we find strength and fight for our rights, even if they call us aliens and illegals. We, as immigrants, stand strong and proud beside each other. We are family. We are the reflection of those who came before us. We are our roots. We are the dreams of our ancestors. We are the power. We will always be the light for our people.
United by Andre (age 15)
With our voices, we can stand up for our people. Our words speak for themselves. In our hands, we hold our children. Together, we are people who can make a community. Even though we are disrespected every day, we find strength in each other. We are of a color that should be united. We carry the legacy of those who fought for us to live with dignity.
Unique by Allison Gonzalez (age 15)
I am a ray of sunshine like the light from the sky, a soul so beautiful in a world full of hatred. I strive to be a star so bright, brighter than all the others.
In the mirror, I see the reflection of a highness, one like a lucky clover hidden deep in the forest. It is never found twice, never found again.
With my voice lingering in the back of your head, my love will never be forgotten. My hands moving gently across your face will never be felt again. Together, we can become one, a connection like no other. We are what others cannot be.
Me, Us by Amy Mendiola-Araiza (age 15)
I am a Mexican girl, the one who represents her culture to the world. I am me. I love me. I want to be me forever.
I come from the struggles of my mother who came a long way. In the mirror, I see the eyes of a young girl with dreams of becoming an artist at her full potential.
With our voices, we can bring inspiration to all, motivating us to grow stronger and to lead.
We speak for our ancestors, some who were never heard, others who were not around to teach us to use our voice to stand up for our community. In our hands, we see the strength given to us by our families.
We have the power to change our future, using our voices and actions to fulfill our dreams.
Together, we can learnand grow.
Our motivation brings hope and energy to our people. We will be remembered by many.
Who I Am by Arianna Rubio (age 15)
I am my father’s little princess, my mother’s world, my brother's role model, and my abuelo’s world. I am the only daughter who puts others first, the oldest who makes sure her younger siblings have everything they need. Vengo de mis papás trabajando duro para dar a sus hijos todo lo que quieren. Their sacrifices have made me who I am.
I am forever grateful. In the mirror, I see her, the woman I wish to become, the woman who works hard for her dreams to come true. With my voice, I can be the person I want to be, the woman who helps her parents when they need it. In my dreams, I imagine the woman who makes her family proud. The little girl in her will admire who she becomes.
Through the Struggle by Aydin (age 15)
I am the golden ticket for my family to progress from all the stress and be my version of the best.
I come from a hard-working family who struggled to give me the life I have, being put through the toughest battle like a soldier has.
In the mirror, I see a better version that I can be. So I struggle to see how the ones closest to me do not have the same courage to lead.
In my dreams, I imagine I can create a better future not just for me, but for my family. They can see that their sacrifices were worth it. They were not just for them, but for us, for our dream.
Reclaiming by Carlos A. (age 15)
I am the sacrifices my mother made, la esperanza que mi madre quiere para un buen futuro. I see myself en la avanza shopping for goods, while my mother is fighting for our food. Who are you to tell my mother she does not belong here? I come from the tears shed by those pleading for change, to become a true person to a land we already belong to, a land stripped with bloodshed and mass murder. In the mirror, I see the cause my mother fought for, while I bring forth the courage my siblings need to succeed. I plead to be seen as the Hispanic I am. In my dreams, I imagine a cleaner world, an inclusive world that allows us Mexicans to create change, to reclaim OUR land,
and be true “Americans.” We can then be the people we WANT to be, living a life gleefully. Con nuestras voces, podemos ser la comunidad unida, con gente que son diferente de nosotros, accepting those banished from their own land.
I grew up in a barrio full of my own people, from skin pale as paper to the darker shades hiding from oppression. In our hands, we hold the broken pieces of our heritage, destroyed by the wealthy but restored by our families who suffer from being a different color.
Hopefully by Cindy Banos (age 15)
I am the hope of my future and my family. I carry the power of my generation's dreams.
I come from a mother who gives me inspiration and motivation when she tells me her stories of struggles and mistakes. She has faced the problems to give us a better chance at a brighter future. For that, I am forever grateful. In the mirror, I see an influence of who I hope to never become. In my dreams, I imagine a life like those told in books, where I struggle but at the end find my peace. Even though the vision exists in my imagination, I believe that I have the power to maybe, one day, make it into reality.
Recognition by Diego Carrillo (age 15)
I am the president of myself. I will never forget the ways my shadows acted out in the past. I come from the womb of Mexican history. My ancestors’ sacrifices leave bloody handprints on my back. In the mirror, I see flattened textures. Within my eyes, there is a story told by the big bang of events that led to my creation. In my dreams, I imagine a pool of memories, the memories and traditions my ancestors passed down.
The Change We Want To See by Edwin Nunez (age 15)
With our voices, we can create a new world with no war and no pain. In our hands, we see the future of ourselves, the community, and the people. Together, we create change, making the world better. We put a stop to greed. We bring unity, coming together to challenge powerful people. We are the citizens of this country. We will never forget how our ancestors fought for us to be a part of this nation.
I carry the roots of my family. I come from Venezuela, the most beautiful country. In my eyes, I see a strong woman with the power to make a change in my life. In my dreams, I imagine a better future with my family in Venezuela. We speak for the power inside us.
My Venezuela by Gisselle Gonzalez (age 15)
Yo Soy by Emiliano Santacruz Armendáriz (age 15)
I am the blood, sweat, and tears poured into me by an immigrant family. I will always remember those who made sacrifices for me to have a brighter future. I come from hard-working parents of Mexican heritage, culture, and language. They showed me that nothing comes easy, that nothing worth having is ever handed to you.
In the mirror, I see him, the man I strive to become: a second-generation college graduate who accomplishes his goals and makes his family proud. On my shoulders, I bear the weight of my family's expectations.
En mis sueños, imagino un futuro brillante, donde mi familia pueda ver que cada esfuerzo y sacrificio me han llevado a florecer. Mi futuro está en frente de mi, lleno de posibilidades. Con cada paso que doy, me acerco a lo que será.
A Promise by Fabian G.G. (age 15)
I am a young, Hispanic boy who is trying to make it happen. I will never forget the promise I made to myself that night. I come from a place where people do not have a very good life. Their sacrifices remind me why I am here. In the mirror, I see the little kid with hopes on his shoulders. I carry them with pride. In my dreams, I imagine the life I always wanted.
Fuertes por Fatima G. (15 años de edad)
Con nuestras voces, podemos expresar nuestro dolor y cansancio.
Pero el poder dentro de nosotros nos hace escucharnos fuerte.
En nuestras manos, cargamos la responsabilidad de no decepcionar a nuestros padres. Construimos un futuro donde ellos puedan ver nuestros logros y estar orgullosos de lo que nos convertimos.
The Strength by Joel Diaz (age 15)
I am the pride, source, and success of my familia and culture. My roots come from the struggles of having nothing, hoping one day, to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I come from a neighborhood with culture that taught me respect for my raza and pushed me to reach the stars. I get motivation knowing my family pushes me to succeed. I make their dreams come true, as a child who never gave up, no matter how far I was from the top. En el espejo, veo a un niño desesperado para salir adelante, overcoming my fears and obstacles to make my family proud. On my shoulders, I carry my parents’ faith and responsibilities. In my dreams, I imagine a kid who will provide for my family. My sacrifices will, one day, make a change. I can create a new strength, proving a point for our culture, showing that we are more than just immigrants and “illegal aliens.”
Pushing Forward by Jason Dean
Brito
(age 15)
My roots come from a man, a man who made mistakes that he could not take back. He waited days and days, hoping he could return home and see his family. When he did, he tried so hard. He made sacrifices to better his children. He worked every day and night to make sure they slept well.
I will always look back and see what my mother has done. She tried every day to get us to school, provide a roof over our head, and put food on our plates. She sacrificed to get us new things: a new house, better food, and paid bills.
In the mirror, I see a person who represents his family, pushing himself to his limits, so they do not give up on him. With my voice and right to speak up, I can help people who suffer every day. I can change these corrupt laws and government officials. I can show that my people have rights and are humans too, not aliens.
In the mirror, I see not only someone who can be treated fairly, but someone who can stick up for people who are scared to stand up.
The Light by Jeremiah Watson (age 15)
I come from the Motor City, where dreams are high and effort is low, an effect of a system that failed us. With our voices, we can change the perception that they have of our life. They put us in the dark but we are really the light. They are scared to see us reunite. Our people have been damaged but our voices come to bring light. In our hands, we see the future. In our eyes, we see the world, the same world where borders have more power than voices and money more power than people. But these things do not define you, your actions do. So does how you treat the people next to you.
Mis Suenos, Mis Metas por Josue Tovar (15 años de edad)
Yo soy un soñador. Nunca olvidaré el esfuerzo y todo lo que mi familia y yo tuvimos que hacer para que podamos tener un futuro mejor. Vengo de una familia que me da motivos para ser alguien en la vida y que se esfuerzan para que yo pueda tener lo que ellos no pudieron. Gracias a ellos, hoy sé que si quiero algo, tengo que luchar porque todo en esta vida se puede. Mis papás son mi inspiración porque han hecho muchos sacrificios para que yo y mis hermanos podamos tener una mejor vida.
Mi papá una vez me dijo, “Mijo, estudie mucho, ya que es más fácil agarrar un lápiz que una pala”.
En el espejo, veo mi persona, en un futuro con mucho éxito, por haberme esforzado mucho y lograr lo que quería. En mis ojos, puedo ver el camino correcto hacia el éxito. En mis sueños, imagino la vida de mis ancestros los que les tocó vivir una vida difícil. Me da más motivos para que yo pueda esforzarme y tener una buena vida. Yo sé que mi futuro depende de mí.
Por eso, trato de ser mejor para ver a mis papás orgullosos de mí, dándome cuenta que todo valió la pena.
With Our Voices by Judith (age 15)
With our voices, we can fight those who do not want our people. The power inside us does not come from one individual. It comes from us being together. With our hands, we break through walls and chains to be free. We carry each other when we fall because no one gets left behind. We can bring society together because without each other, we are empty. We bring unity. We are not of the same blood, but we come for a certain cause. The darker shades come from our ancestors. We are proud to know who we are. We will never forget those who sacrificed for us in the past. We are whole.
Liberating Dreams by Layla
Ramirez (age 15)
I am a pretty girl with a brain.
I am more than my features. I carry the trials and tribulations that come my way. I will always remember how far I have traveled to pursue my dreams of overcoming my burdens to enjoy summer skies. I come from shattered hopes and broken hearts. My family’s sacrifices motivate me to strive for a better tomorrow. Their struggles are sandpaper on skin yet blessings in disguise that I will live and learn from. In the mirror, I see the reminder that I am alive and not held back by my trauma. With my words, I have the power to speak in ways that were frowned upon. In my dreams, I imagine peace and freedom for those who come after me, not having to carry the burden that once was.
I believe one day, my children will be able to walk into equality and love, not having to fear what can approach. Instead, they could run through life reaching for the stars. With our voices, we express the dreams of our ancestors. We speak for those who cannot fend for themselves, struck by negativity but in search of positivity. Our words linger forever in the brains of our peers. In our hands, we have the power to learn from our mistakes, overcoming the troubles of yesterday. Our future is determined by our choices. Our actions are transformative, liberating our dreams. Together, we can strive for our ambitions and aspirations, grabbing our dreams that were once thought absurd and far-fetched.
Querer Es Poder por Lixie S. (age 15)
Soy descendiente de sangre Mexicana, con unas metas tan claras como el agua.
With my roots and my dreams, Denver es donde nací. Pero en Jalisco y Chihuahua es donde crecí.
I come from a family que me dice, “Si no estudias no vas a ser nada, y para lograr las cosas, se da la cara.”
The struggle makes me strong, porque como bien dicen, “Lo que no mata, te hace mas fuerte.”
The struggle that I went through is what made my personality and that is how it took form.
In the mirror, I see a tired face that sometimes tells me, “Ya para que?”
But then I remind myself that not only do I hold my future with strength but I also hold what the world has become. I must learn how to fix some of the mistakes, even the ones I did not make.
On my shoulders, I carry my own future, because cada quien
tiene su propio destino y lo que decide. I am the only one who decides my destiny. Walking next to God, I think I am going on the right track.
In my dreams, I see myself from a different perspective. Then, I could feel free from the nights when I cannot sleep, all because I really want to accomplish my dreams. They are my goals, and like in soccer, I need to keep scoring until someone says, “Esa muchacha si se la rifó.”
I choose not to be del monton, not taking the example de todas las personas que se les cierra el mundo, sino que de la gente que piensa en su futuro. Pero no estoy para seguir el ejemplo sino darlo.
Tengo que tomar mis propios riesgos como mi gente que se brincó el “cerco.” Tomaron el riesgo de llegar vivo o muerto, todo por el sacrificio de tener un techo y un par de pesos. Normalmente en sus pueblos pretenden de vivir de viejos, disfrutando lo que acá, en Estados Unidos, hicieron.
Fears and Dreams by
Maribella Garcia (age 15)
I am the darkness of my fears and the spotlight of my dreams.
My roots are from Jalisco but I branched out in Denver.
In the mirror, I see a Mexican Girl who wants to make her parents proud y hacer todo lo que mis padres no pudieron.
My dreams are that one day, we, as Mexicans, can be free, walking out in these streets not fearing la migra and with our heads held up high.
With our voices, we can say things that others are afraid to say.
In our hands, we have people’s freedom as Mexicans con papeles.
My people came to the U.S. because this was supposed to be the land of the free. So, why is it that we get discriminated against because our skin is brown?
But I am the darkness of my fears and the spotlight of my dreams.
The Missing Truth by Lover Teruo-Ham
I am the light that led my ancestors out of the darkness. I still carry the family curses that were brought down upon me.
I come from a broken family who struggles to put back the missing pieces to our “puzzle,” a family with a lot of sacrifices that just led to losing the head of the body.
In the mirror, I see a boy who struggles to live one life, a boy who tries balancing Christianity and the world that’s lost.
In my dreams, I imagine rewriting my story, but who am I to think of rewriting something that’s already written.
With our voices, we can seek help, but who is there to listen to what they call “nonsense.”
(age 15)
Keep Pushing by Mariposa Salas (age 15)
I am the moon, beautiful and full of delight, but never shining in the husky night. I will always remember all the pain that I have gained, but I will always keep pushing past the places I despise the most. I come from sorrow and despair, reaching from my beyond, touching what I desire and daydream most, above my mind. In the mirror, I see a simple girl who has risen from her fear and fright, blooming her petals open and wide, free from what she was captive of inside.
In my dreams, I imagine a teenage girl who will grow to be an independent woman who will no longer allow people to step all over her. She will stand her ground.
Motivation by Mauricio
Lobatos-Chavez
(age 15)
I am the light of my future, the success of my family. I will always remember and never forget the promise I made to follow my dreams. I come from a great place, my hometown. My world and my roots give me the power to shape my future. In the mirror, I see a successful tomorrow. I believe that with my voice and words, I can create something special. In my dreams, I imagine the person who will reach out to me, opening my eyes and saying, “Make this future your own.” My family’s sacrifices and struggles motivate me to reach my goal.
My Family's Legacy by Max (age 15)
I am my father’s legacy, striving to push past my limits and achieve everything he could not. I carry the weight of his achievements, always wanting to make him proud. I know that he is always behind me, helping me achieve my goals.
I come from my mother, who was not given many opportunities, yet still planted the seeds that push me to succeed. She paved a way for me to achieve my potential. Her sacrifices allow me to reach for the sky and achieve everything I can.
In the mirror, I see my family's struggles, hardships, and achievements, showing me the way. On my shoulders is my family's legacy: my mother who was never given the opportunity to succeed, my father who could never reach the goals he had set.
In my dreams, I imagine a family carrying my legacy, someone who may achieve what I could not. While my future may not be set in stone, I know that I will always have family behind me to help me reach for the stars and achieve my goals.
The Reality by Melanie M. (age 15)
I am strong. I will always persevere. I remember the struggle we went through to get to where we are. The thought makes me try to be better every day.
I come from flores de cempasúchil en el Día De Los Muertos. En el espejo, veo la reencarnación de un fénix lleno de llamas y poder.
On my shoulders, I carry the weight of being a person who my siblings can look up to. In my dreams, I imagine family being my biggest happiness.
With our voices, we can inspire people to find themselves.
En nuestras manos, creamos la chispa e imaginación en una persona. Our future depends on us. Together, we bring power and unity.
We are the light and the dark. Every dream is a new chance.
Que Somos? por Miguel Godoy (15 años de edad)
Somos los jóvenes que miran hacia el horizonte con un propósito para mejorar el mundo de mañana.
Vengo del esfuerzo y sacrificio de mis padres, ninguno con la orientación adecuada. Desearon y me dieron lo mejor en educación, enseñándome lo que a ellos no.
En nuestros hombros, cargamos con toneladas de propósitos y metas, que con esfuerzo volarán.
Las voces son poderosas, construyendo el mañana.
Las voces son armas que disparan con propósito, actualmente roto. Las voces deberían disparar la realidad, no lo que dicen.
Juntos, podemos volver a unir los lazos de la humanidad, rotos por el odio.
Somos el próximo sacrificio, todos, para que nunca olviden nuestro horizonte.
Screaming for a Future by
Miguel Silva-Avalos
(age 15)
With our voices, we scream into a void that never responds, always ignoring us till our very last breath. They never make an effort to change, tuning out our pain, as they continue to dismantle our dreams.
In our hands, we hold our hearts, giving them away for peace. We try to build a future that never starts, trusting them to agree to equality. That future is always a dream, far away. They stab our hearts when given the chance, with a smile on their face. They keep a better life for themselves while we are placed next to dirt.
They take a step back, say they are going forward, a lie they say all the way till they are back
where they started, preaching a lie we believe. We find strength through oppression, a step forward filled with the inspiration of a better creation, just to take three steps back in a cycle of oppression.
Together, we build a future filled with unity. We are a hope to be finally heard para que escuchen nuestra voz, escuchen nuestro future, escuchen nuestro dolor que siempre ignoran. We will always remember the blood splattered, all for them to hear a whisper of hope that we scream. We will be heard, creating a future that still seems impossible on a road that is never ending.
A Disguise Everyone Sees by Miguel Silva-Avalos (age 15)
I am the pioneer for the future, the one who lifts all the hopes and dreams for those who have fought for me. Though, in the mirror, I see someone who does not look like me anymore. With skin so white and clothes so branded, you imagine him to be a white guy.
I come from the shadows which I cast upon myself, hiding the roots until they are dried up. They cover the scars that have been there since my ancestors fought against their oppressor, hiding so no one sees the me which I come from.
In the mirror, I see a person who looks
not like us but like those who came to take from us. It is a disguise so good, the roots have become invisible to anyone who looks. No one, even family, would see any heritage that I carry.
In my dreams, I imagine a passage to go through. I see the light my ancestor shows to me, while everybody else sees a white boy.
I try to destroy a disguise which is now a part of me, one that never comes off, even when I change my language, my clothes, or my attitude. I never change the skin that makes me look like something I am not.
Future Talk by Muktar Ali (age 15)
With our voices, we can speak truth and pave our way to a brighter future for our people. We speak for our generation and for the oppressed of our time, the oppressed who want a better life for themselves, their kids, and people with skin like mine.
In our hands, we hold the power to change the future, making it better for the next generation. Our future is something we control ourselves, something we decide, not anyone else. So, to create a better future, you first must create a better you.
Together, we are stronger, stronger than we think. We have the powers and abilities to leave a big enough footprint that will one up bigfoot. We find strength in weakness and use it
to let our light shine bright enough that it will light the path to our future.
We are an army of hope and change for our people. We can stand strong and proud, changing enough to make the oppressors cope. Our ancestors once rose up and brought change to the world. Now, it is our turn to light our torches with their flames and run with them to the finish line that is waiting for us.
A Legacy by Omar Escamilla (age 15)
I am a man of discipline and confidence.
I am the light that always shines bright in the darkest of days.
I come from a family of 2 struggling to make a living. I get motivation from the challenges and struggles that come my way, as I improve myself. In the mirror, I see a reflection of a person who will spread pure positivity to his whole entire family and the next generation.
In my dreams, I imagine a person who makes others feel welcomed. In the future, I imagine a legacy to pass down to my grandchildren.
El Orgullo de Mis Padres por Saili Mora (15 años de edad)
Yo soy el orgullo de mis padres y mi familia.
Siempre voy a recordar todo lo que hicieron por mi.
Tengo que agradecerles. Por eso, lucharé.
Vengo de los sacrificios y las esperanzas de mis padres.
Tomo motivación cuando los veo. Me hacen feliz.
En el espejo, veo a una gran chica que logra todas sus metas. En mis sueños, imagino que saco a mi familia adelante. No voy a perder sus esperanzas. Veo mi futuro mejor con el poder para luchar. Lo puedo construir.
Voices by Samarri M. Johnson (age 15)
In the mirror, I see the world on my shoulders. In my head, I hear faint voices, loving to interrupt my thoughts is the job of these voices. These negative thoughts cause my mind to feel like a huge brewing pot of poison. If these whispers get louder, my character will start to disintegrate, causing those around me to question my choices.
With our own words, we can reach out to bring unity within this community. Unfortunately, that is something we lack, something we crave. We cannot be a whole if we are constantly digging each other's graves. Some spread negativity because they may not have the same creativity as the next, itching to be the best at all things. Maybe try working hard and see what life brings.
In our hands, we carry the future.
As youth, we must understand it is time to create change, reconstruct, and stop with all the “buts” and go for it. If it were the “newest shoes” or “trendiest clothes,” then we would blow for it. I am speaking in terms of money, but we must be hungry for improvement.
Together, we have the power to reach the stars, I mean, actually go far. I am sure everyone wants their dream car. We all want money in large amounts, so much you get irritated when it is time to count. But be grateful for the little things because everything you have today can be gone by tomorrow. While you worry about not having the latest jeans, someone else could be drowning in sorrow.
The Drive to Succeed by Sebastian Ruiz (age 15)
I am striving for greatness. I carry my last name. I will triumph. I come from my parents’ sacrifices. Their determination sets an example for me to follow their same steps. In the mirror, I see myself wanting to succeed. I see the drive to climb the stairs to reach the goals I yearn for.
In my dreams, I imagine my future, making my parents proud. I will triumph. Perspective by Ulises
(age 15)
I am rooted in a land of sacrifice, carrying both the sins and achievements of the ones before me. I come from a broken society, with the hope of a better tomorrow.
In the mirror, I see a shell of myself, never filling the shoes of oneself.
In my dreams, I imagine holding my future, but with the ring of an alarm. I loosen my grasp and look to the sky, with a future on my mind.
The Bond by Serenity K. (age 15)
I am the eldest daughter, the example, the leader.
In my hands. I hold my family’s beliefs, their demands, their dreams.
The strength of our bond brings us together. It carries us through these never-ending fires.
I come from the determination that built my inspiration, that built my spirit to keep going.
Our bond is a shield in this bloody war.
In the mirror, I see a hand of success that we reach out for every day. It is so close yet always so far.
In my dreams, I imagine a day when these fires burn to ash, a day when we could finally see clear skies of hope.
Within Me by Taraji Nelson-Russell (age 15)
I am what I am not to be, the one who shakes at the sight of a storm. Still, I gain courage when all is done, yet fighting within to mouth the actions untold while breaking the place I find to comfort me.
I come from years of eagerness, yearning for a life painted in gold. It shines even brighter when I look at faces, the eyes of others gleaming while I sit on the ground, a root ripped from its tree.
In the mirror, I see a canvas painted by those with heavy hearts.
It aches whenever the brush touches what is done. It cries, begging to stop. Cover me, cover me. Do not let them change the art I discovered.
In my dreams, I imagine you, you bringing life to the grave of people who walk, breathing words of doubt. Become that, become the sanctuary in which they can believe will satiate the living hope in what seems they can only cope.
Yo Soy por Valeria Edenia (15 años de edad)
Yo soy mi padre’s morenita y mi madre’s mejor amiga. Es un honor mantener el amor de mi familia y poder avanzar en la vida.
Vengo de una familia que vivía en la pobreza, pero aún nunca han quebraron una promesa.
Sus sacrificios me han enseñaron el razon para seguir y vivir con la ayuda de dios usando mi voz, en este mundo que está lleno de maldad.
En el espejo, veo una niña que ha tomado una forma nueva de sus papás.
A Man by Yinsen Reyes Limon (age 15)
I am a man of love and hate, a man who supports and envies, a man who laughs and cries, a man who cares for all but hates them too. I cannot pick a side. I give what I can. Some love me. Some hate and despise me. I come from an empty tequila bottle or beer can, from empty pockets full of joy, where many would break and few prevail. I still remember the day when my brother went to jail. In the mirror, I see the man I want be, a man of happiness, a man of joy, a man full of pride, a man of love. But the pain in my heart will not let me go far. In my dreams, I imagine being wealthy, being proud, changing my ways from obnoxious and loud to self-kept and calm. I imagine my kids with the things I wish I had. I imagine them happy and stress free. In my dreams, I imagine myself with a family.
Inspiration by Allisson
Mejia-Ramos
I am the daughter of not one, but two strong immigrant parents, who came to the U.S. to give my siblings and me a better life. I keep their sacrifices with me, as they will be proud sitting in the crowd of my graduation. In my hands, I hold the motivation of being Salvadoran, Honduran, and proud. I come from poverty, from home to home not knowing where I will be sleeping next, from wearing my brother's old clothes. I carry strength, as the young lady in me sees the growth in both of my siblings. I take an oath, “Stay together, no matter what.” In the mirror, I see a redhead girl, keeping hope and holding onto the inspiration of a mother who used to work
(age 16)
not one, but two jobs. I always remember how hard she worked to give us Christmas. In my dreams, I imagine reaching out for the stars and becoming a CEO of my own company. My future lies in my hands to get these bands. So, I surround myself with good people to keep the good vibes going. With our voices, we give inspiration and power to the next generation, bringing unity and love. In our hands, we hold dreams that inspire the many boys and girls to follow their own. We truly are dreamers, not because we were born outside of the U.S, but because we will make our parents’ dreams real. They will then tell us that it was worth it after all.
I Am From by Buddy Wannamaker (age 16)
I am from the Rocky Mountains and their stunning beauty, from my family, where there are meals and fun times in the kitchen.
I am also from therapy and curiosity at the worst moments, which have changed me so.
I am from Mr. Yuri to that one butthead who asked, “So, what is wrong with you,” on my first day of therapy.
I am from feeling shunned and ignored, and being falsely assumed to be a terrible person.
I am from my grandparents and my ancestors, looking down on me with a gaze as bright as a thousand suns, the weight of their expectations crippling me at times.
I am from cooking cookies and getting flour all over my clothes,
and smiles from people liking them.
I am from loving and being rejected often.
I am full of emotions and crying to my parents about all the things.
I am from bullying and depression, from fear, growth, stress, and anxiety aplenty.
I am from pain and disease that almost ruined my body or removed my life every time.
I am from gaming and N64 games with my dad.
I am from friends, and always laughing around them.
I am from my past and will never forget, but I will always be me, and I love that.
Mi Vida por Isa Alvarez Romero (16 años de edad)
Soy una chica fuerte que ha tenido que enfrentarse a la vida y demostrar que todo lo puede lograr se lo propone.
Vengo de Venezuela, un país que está pasando por una situación difícil pero que aún así ha demostrado que tiene personas que luchan y tienen una fe que les cambia la vida. En el espejo, veo mis ojos que reflejan mi vida. Veo mis cualidades y defectos.
Cada rizo de mi pelo cuenta una historia de mi vida. Cada sonrojo de mis mejillas habla de algo que me emociona.
Cada lunar de mi cuerpo cuenta cómo he cambiado y mejorado.
Veo todo lo que he pasado y cómo lo he logrado superar. Veo cómo he sanado mis heridas. En mis sueños, imagino una vida tranquila sin problemas, con paz dentro de mí, una vida donde mis inseguridades no me atormenten todos los días.
Our Strength by Isa Alvarez Romero (age 16)
With our voices, we can inspire people to fight harder for their lives and not be afraid of change and problems. In our hands, we have the power to take actions that benefit our future and create positive change in our lives. Together, we can connect and motivate people from all over the world. We can revive the traditions of our ancestors. We are strong people, people with will and desire to get ahead.
A Pillar by Isaiah (age 16)
I am the strength of a pillar holding up a building made of only struggle and problems.
I come from a very complex city, Denver. It can be very peaceful, yet also just as problematic.
In the mirror, I see a young boy worn down and exhausted from daily life and its surprises. Yet, he still withstands the chaos as more is built upon it.
In my dreams, I imagine that same sad boy, but only now grown, standing just as tall and proud as always. Even with all the wear and tear, he has withstood, living life to the fullest and getting everything he has ever dreamed of.
In Our
Future
by Israel M. (age 16)
With our words and voices, we can always inspire others to be better. We speak for our ancestors and for what they fought for.
We all carry our future, so we should make a change for the next generations. We have the power to do what we have always wanted, giving thanks to our ancestors’ sacrifices. Our motivation has always kept us going and should never be forgotten. We should always find strength within ourselves to keep going.
We should never forget where we come from, our background, our past, and the future we can build. We will forever carry our ancestors' legacy and we should live their dreams.
Somebody by Jason Montes (age 16)
I am capable of changing the future, using the strengths of my ancestors. With their sacrifices and struggles, I am carried daily. I come from fields that last forever. From duraznos to jalapenos, my roots grow deep. In the mirror, I see characteristics of my ancestry: my face, my hair, even my determination. I will always remember that I carry the strength of my last name: “Montes.”
In my dreams, I imagine somebody with a voice, somebody who strives to try better every day, somebody who brings good energy even after a bad day. My future is in my hands. I have the power to surround myself
with good choices, good habits. But what makes these choices, these habits? It takes somebody to embody decisions. I will be somebody. I am somebody.
With our voices, we can make the change we want, the change we need for our community. In our hands, we hold the key to a brighter future, like putting pencil to paper, within every wrinkle. Together, we are a family. We set aside our differences to fight for our future. We are responsible for the road our next generation takes.
More Than Broken by Jazmine Montoya (age 16)
I am a broken kid, the heart that was hurt by life. What we thought was warm and kind has turned cold and cruel.
I come from heartbreak, from a world where sueños are crushed and hopes taken, being told, “You are not good enough.”
In the mirror, I see a kid with no worries.
But when she steps away, all she sees is a little girl broken like a doll, like the doll left in the store when mama says no.
In my dreams, I imagine a world where I do not hurt, where happiness remains in the eyes of family, knowing there is more to life than darkness.
With our voices, we can show the hurt, thinking about the life we could have lived. Looking up the steps, we see a new world with flowers, like tulips in the field.
In our hands, we hold the life of our familia, the glue that binds sueños together. Now, we have a new meaning, a new life together. We prove to the ancestors that we are strong.
We show the world that we are not scared to show our skin, our colors, our culture.
The power of the words that could change the world shows us that we are not scared. We can be more than what they think of us.
We are the creator, as the lord by your side, of a new generation that can change life.
Mejor Versión por Joana (16 años de edad)
Soy una historia que apenas comienza. Los consejos de mi madre siempre están presentes en mi . Vengo de mezclas de tradiciones y culturas. Mi motivación para seguir adelante son mis padres. En el espejo, veo los sacrificios que han hecho para que este a donde estoy. En mis manos, tengo el poder de mostrarle a las personas que soy capaz. En mis sueños, imagino ser libre y volar muy lejos. Soy muy creyente en que algun dia, seré la mejor versión de mi.
We Do Not Give Up by Kamillo M. (age 16)
I am someone who tries, even when things get hard. I come from late nights, small wins, and tough lessons. I come from people who do not always get me but they know I care.
In the mirror, I see someone who is still learning, someone who does not give up. someone who is trying their best. In my dreams, I see a life where things are better, where I am proud of who I have become. With our voices, we can speak up for what is right even if we are scared. In our hands, we hold the chance to change things, to make things right, to make tomorrow different than today. We carry the power to win. Together, we can figure things out. In a way, that makes life easier for future generations. We are strong, not because life is easy, but because we do not give up.
Futurista by Kiara (age 16)
I am the esperanza of my parents. I come from broken, run-down buildings, cars blasting corridos and bachata, tiendas and bodegas overflowing with music, tortillas, plátanos, and morir sonando.
In the mirror, I see a version of both my mother and father. I see their sacrifices, crossing the border, leaving everything they knew, their culture, their family, their friends, to seek a better future for themselves, and us, their children.
In my dreams, I imagine the future of my family, when my mom and dad will not have to get up at 5-6 in the morning to work more than 12 hours to provide for us, and our future.
With Our Voices by Lupita M. (age 16)
With our voices, we can give inspiration and motivation to others. The power inside us moves us to the destination of our dreams. In our hands, we carry our future. We have the power for the time to come. Together, we bring our unity. This way, we find strength in our community. We will never forget. We will always remember our roots.
Yo Soy by Maria Luevano (age 16)
I am the power and hope of my family. I come from the sacrifices my parents made for me to be here. Siempre voy a recordar como lucharon. In the mirror, I see the woman I hope to become in the future. In my dreams, I imagine being successful and making my parents proud. Tomo motivación cuando recuerdo que mi padres no tuvieron oportunidades para cumplir sus sueños.
Tenemos el Poder por Melinda H.M. (16 años de edad)
Con nuestras voces, podemos expresar de dónde venimos, nuestra cultura. Nosotros hablamos por nosotros mismos. En nuestras manos, tenemos la responsabilidad de mantener nuestra cultura con nosotros. Tenemos el poder de demostrar de donde provenimos y de lo orgullosos que estamos.
Juntos, podemos alzar nuestra voz y celebrar nuestras raíces. Nuestra comunidad somos nosotros y nosotros somos la comunidad. Somos personas que tienen un sueño y un propósito en la vida. Nunca olvidaremos de donde somos, los propósitos que tenemos o nuestra identidad.
The Power by Nate (age 16)
I am a child of God. I will always remember where I came from, because my mom is a strong woman of God. In our hands, we hold great power. Our future relies on our knowledge, our greatness to reach real success.
In My Mother’s Eyes by Reyna Alvanez (age 16)
I am the hope in my mother’s eyes. I carry the lessons she brought to life. I come from the blood and tears my mother cried during the time when her mother died. In the mirror, I see a young lady hurrying to succeed. If only it was that easy. In my dreams, I imagine the person I would want to be. I have the power to shift my future and become the person my mother always wanted to see.
Dreams by Owen Burrell (age 16)
I am my life's one intern. I come from a place where one day I hope to return.
In the mirror, I see the events in my life that I would like to occur.
I imagine a man, a man with dreams insured.
In my head, I hear parents say that they are proud of me.
I am afraid of it being no more than a lyric without a beat.
I preach my dreams like they are a solid part of me.
In reality, I have no idea what I am going to be.
Leading the Way by Rubi C. (age 16)
Yo soy la luz de mi familia, leading the way out from the pobreza.
I will never forget the light, the hope, in eyes that once held tristeza.
Vengo de la soledad del invierno. The struggle makes me want to leave, pero yo tengo un sueño!
In the mirror, I see my reason to believe and hope en mi protectora.
She holds me every time que me siento sola.
En mis sueños, imagino a mi Maria apoyándome todas las horas.
I have the power de mi familia que siempre me apoya!
El Poder by Rubi C. (age 16)
With our voices, we can destroy ICE’s discrimination that has kept us in chains.
Our words speak louder than a crowd cheering their team to win the game.
En nuestras manos, tenemos la fuerza de defender nuestro poder, el poder que nuestros padres no tuvieron, al venir a este país de deber.
Juntos, podemos pararnos con la cara de frente. Nuestra sangre está hirviendo como café caliente.
This way, we are being heard and seen que si somos valientes!
Somos como una trenza agarrada en nuestra cabeza, fuerte y nunca rindiéndonos. Estamos demostrando el poder que nuestros ancestros nos dieron.
The Light I Want to Be by Saul Garcia (age 16)
I want to be the light that lifts someone up and helps them shine bright. I pass that through generations, wanting the words I share to heal, getting rid of the bad energy like you do with a banana peel. In a world that shifts like sand, I chose to stand. With words that lift and deeds that shine, I strive to be a guiding sign, the kind who listens, who stays near, who makes others feel seen and clear.
I want my words to heal, not break, to spread some love for kindness sake. It will not be because they are loud or strong but because they help someone along. I can show them that they are not alone, for every heart that is lost or small, a good influence can change it all.
I Am... by Victoria R. (age 16)
I am the hopes and dreams of my immigrant parents.
I hold the sacrifices they have made to be where they are.
I come from a hardworking mom and dad who have fought through obstacles.
Siempre voy a recordar sus sacrificios.
In the mirror, I see the woman I hope to become.
On my shoulders, I carry the hardships of my family.
In my dreams, I imagine achieving everything my parents have dreamt of.
Tengo el poder de cumplir sus sueños.
My Words, My Power
by Alexis Mandonado (age 17)
With our voices, we can speak to our people, feeding them knowledge so we soon speak together.
Our words encourage people to strive for what we deserve, not to hurt one another.
In our hands, we control what we know is in our land and what is to come as it changes. We carry our hopes on our back and in our hands to lead the way as we stand as one.
Together, we stand tall. We speak as one. We connect with each other, for even if we fall, we stand together amongst them all.
We are the people, the people who take risks, the ones who are sick of those who try to bring us down.
We are the power to uplift those who have fallen. We are the ones who bring greatness to our country.
I Live for My Raices by
Chris Del Valle
(age 17)
I am the leader of the family, the one they believe can bring success.
The sacrifices of my parents pushes me to accomplish my dream so they can rely on my strength.
I come from a family who lived through traumas in a country full of opportunities, but afraid that my parents will not be here.
In the mirror, I see the success I can achieve and the person who will accomplish it.
In my eyes, I see my parents and future generations being happy, depending on my hard work.
In my dreams, I imagine my family living stress-free and not worrying about finances.
I have the power to either start the wealth or help another special person do it.
My Determination by
Dominic Martinez-Tamayo (age
I am the strength of my ancestors who push me.
I will always remember that I come from their sacrifices, their determination, their will. In the mirror, I see my future that I have control over with my actions. It is similar to the one set by my ancestors. In my dreams, I imagine a better future for my family. Happily, I choose to make a difference.
I Am Him by Luis Enrique (age 17)
I am brown by the skin. Talking down on me will not make me dim. I just say I am him. I will never forget what my ancestors did. I will stand tall as long as there is blood in my body.
Mi Destino por Lus Enrique (17 años de edad)
En mis sueños, imagino que mi destino es tan grande como lo que digo con mis sentidos. Voy en el camino correcto para en fin, ir con Christo.
17)
Dreams Our Parents Handed Us by M.R.S (age 17)
I am the daughter of Mexican immigrants. I will never forget the sacrifices they made to get me where I am. I come from their struggles, their blood, sweat, and tears. In the mirror, I see pain, determination, and hope.
We carry the dreams our parents handed us. With our voices, we can uplift the ones who were knocked down. We speak up for those who were silenced. We find strength in each other. Together, we can inspire generations to come.
Mi Identidad by Monica Telles Rodriguez (age 17)
Yo soy orgullosamente mexico-americana.
I am a strong, honest, and humble young person, who fights for su gente.
Nunca olvidaré y siempre tendré presente a mi cultura, mis valores, mis raíces.
I will continue honoring my heritage and acknowledging my people.
I come from immigrant parents, from a proud Mexican family, who despite living in poverty, continued fighting for their futures and gave it all up for us.
Their determination to give me, their families, and future descendants a better life and opportunity to thrive, me motiva a continuar persiguiendo mis sueños. Si ellos no se detuvieron, yo tampoco.
En el espejo, veo mi reflejo. I see a young woman determined to accomplish her own dreams and defy society, demonstrating we can do
and be anything.
In my eyes, I see the struggles of my ancestors, the journey my parents underwent, the struggles they experienced to get themselves and family to where we are now.
En mis sueños, me veo a mi misma, convirtiéndome en la gran persona que deseo ser, convirtiéndome en la líder, doctora, entre otras cosas que mi comunidad necesita de mi, enalteciendo a mi gente y enorgulleciendo a mi familia.
Even though my parents were unable to accomplish their own dreams, I am here to prove that we can do whatever we please, and achieve their dreams with my own.
My ancestors would feel proud of me and the rest of their descendants. Todo lo que he logrado hasta este momento, estoy haciendo, y haré es por ellos y por nosotros, demonstrating that their struggles were worth it.
The Power of We by Monica
Telles Rodriguez (age 17)
With our voices, we can unite, stand together, and make our people be heard and seen. We speak for our ancestors, for all those who came before us, and for the future generations.
With our voices, we inspire others to speak up and be heard.
In our hands, we see our past, indigenous blood running through our veins. We hold the present along with the power to build the future we wish for ourselves and our descendants, using what was given to us by our ancestors.
Together, we can be one, demonstrating that we are stronger united.
We are capable of overcoming the world, all through the use of words and a pencil.
We find strength, deep in our hearts, from those we love, showing that like our previous generations, we can defeat entire armies and face any challenge.
We are family. We are one. We are Mexican. We are Hispanic and Latinos. We are our ancestors. We are the future.
We will never forget that we have the power to be and accomplish anything we wish. We are the change we hope to see.
Thoughts by Sara (age 17)
I am a blanket used for comfort without knowing the material. I always relay support and dry tears, while mine are held captive, nearly as prisoners because of the thoughts I think. I come from a family who struggles but adapts. They live in a constant blur of judgement because people only judge by what the eye can see. In the mirror, I see unmet expectations, not by my family, but the brain inside my head that demands more. In my eyes, I am chasing a dog that has got off its leash. In my dreams, I imagine a future where my thoughts will not consume me but help me reach new heights. Even though I am scared of what is to come, I give it all to God.
Orgullo por
Sebas
Armendariz (17 años de edad)
Soy una persona que tiene metas por cumplir. Soy una persona que tiene un futuro por seguir.
Vengo de una familia pobre pero nunca olvidaré que podemos seguir adelante pase lo que pase, siempre estaremos juntos. En el espejo, veo que estoy orgulloso de la persona que soy. En mis sueños, imagino mi futuro, mis metas.
Siempre recordaré que mi familia estará orgullosa de mí por lo que hago y he hecho en esta vida.
My Life, My Choices by
Stacy Granillo
Yo soy el orgullo que veo en los ojos de mi padre. My roots give me the strength to be who I am today, always remembering the first “Estoy orgulloso de ti.”
I came from empty pockets, looking for a better world and opportunities. Family love is like a push of motivation to continue seeking for the best, not just in you but in others as well.
In the mirror, I see a little girl scared for what challenges life will bring her. In my hand, I carry the blood from all my strength and sacrifices. With my voice, I lead my own path for my future.
In my dreams, I imaginethat I can create and build my own future. Even though “es solo un sueño,” I can do it. I have the strength and power in my veins to decide who I am, and who I will be.
(age 17)
A Better Community
by Stacy Granillo (age 17)
With our voices, we share what we can change in this world. Nuestras voces comparten lo que mucha gente teme al decir. We speak for ourselves and to help others. In our hands, we carry proof of our sacrifices and challenges. Each scar represents a push for an accomplishment. Each blood drop is like a happy, tear drop of joy. We reach out for our best, no matter the challenges. Together, we build a better community. We find the strength to bring unity. This way, our motivation helps us. We become better versions of ourselves, like our ancestors before. We will never forget our roots and the power they gave us.
My Words, My Power by Alex Zamora (age 18)
I am the next generation of my roots, holding the future in my hands with the strength of those who came before me. I come from the history of my ancestors who give me motivation, pushing me forward toward my future.
In the mirror, I see a boy who has been through a jungle of obstacles and sacrifices to finally believe that I have the power. I imagine myself making my parents' American dream come true, creating a new story that holds my future.
Best Game by Angel Vazquez (age 18)
I am the fan in the crowd cheering the loudest. Mis raíces vienen del Estadio Azteca.
I come from yellow and blue. I get motivated from hearing the cheers of my family.
In the mirror, I see the person I can become. En mis ojos, I see myself standing inside the field.
In my dreams, I imagine shooting the scoring goal. Tengo el poder de construir el mejor juego de esta vida.
I Bloom In Silence by Anonymous (age 18)
I am the strong sister, la que le afectan las cosas pero en silencio. I was made to be the tree that does not fall, even when the storm forgets to end.
I come from immigrant parents who with sweat and strength work every day to give me a better future. Their determination covers my shoulders with power.
In the mirror, I see a strong, emotional woman with fear but goals to accomplish. I will achieve greatness. With every choice, every breath, I am building the life I was born to rise into.
In my dreams, I imagine my life filled with peace and prosperity. I can create a path where my soul walks free, through fields of peace and rivers of prosperity.
The Weight by Anthony Pulido M. (age 18)
I am my family's greatest hope. I carry with me the weight of their dreams. Their sacrifices mean eternity to me.
I come from a place where opportunity is almost null. The motivation that kept me going was my family pushing me forward.
In the mirror, I see a kid alone, stuck in a rabbit hole. On my shoulders, I carry a weight I cannot see.
In my dreams, I imagine myself happy. I believe I can change if I know what is the problem.
Stronger by Juan Casillas (age 18)
With our voices, we can be stronger. Tenemos el poder dentro de nosotros. We can open the points of view of others. Together, we can do so much to be stronger. We are Latinos.
Full Circle by Devin J. Ojohn (age 18)
I come from a lineage steeped in generational trauma, a cycle that seemed unbreakable. But I am the one who will change that story. The struggle weighs heavily on me, often bringing me to my breaking point. But when I look in the mirror, I see a survivor. I see the strength that comes from breaking free from addiction, not just for myself, but for my mother, for our shared history.
Carrying the burden of sobriety feels like a constant battle against temptations that threaten to pull me back. It is exhausting. Sometimes, I want to surrender to the darkness. But every time I remember who I am and how far I have come, I find the courage to keep moving forward. I am not just breaking free from chains.
I am rewriting the narrative for the generations to come. I will not let this struggle define me. I will rise.
I Am by Dulce Menez (age 18)
I am la esperanza of my family. I come desde abajo, my family siempre haciendo sacrificios to build a better life. In the mirror, I see una joven with dreams and hopes para tener una mejor vida. In my dreams, I imagine my future and I get inspiration to keep going and not give up.
We Are All One by Johnny Quezada (age 18)
I am the future of my people, the one to achieve everyone's dreams. We come from empty plates. With our voices, we grow. We inspire others to work harder. Together, we will make it out. Together, we succeed. We are strong. We are the people.
Soft Stepping Stones by
Gabriel Tzintzun
(age 18)
I am the fading dreams of past generations. I walk through the thoughts and wishes of those on the other side.
I come from the blood, sweat, and tears offered by dirty and muddy hands.
I can create a voice that has always been muted.
In the mirror, I see the change in generations' lost hopes. Those hopes become the stepping stones of my future.
In my dreams, I imagine gentle hands holding my shoulders and pushing me to go on.
With my power to pave the future ahead of me, their effort will not be in vain.
We Stand by
Jessica Menendez Quiroz (age 18)
With our voices, we stand for our rights, our future.
We speak our truth. We speak up against doubts.
In our hands, we hold onto aspirations. Our roots, from a common tree, live through us, along with the memories of our ancestors.
We have the power, the power of hope, of dreams, of building a life. Together, we are strength. Our unity gives us the power we need to create our future, one where our community is united and no longer suffering.
Somos una familia. We are one. The connection of our bonds will no longer be broken by those who look down on us. Through generations, we are now combined and joined as one. We stand, holding our voices together, united.
Somos una para siempre.
ICE Cold Prayers by
Jose Sanchez-Diaz
(age 18)
I am the echo of abuelas who prayed, their hands in the soil, their spirits betrayed.
I come from campos where stories were grown, where sweat built a nation that apparently is not our own.
In the mirror, I see generations in chains, brown eyes holding centuries of pain.
Skin like the earth, they tried to divide, but we carry our culture with undying pride.
In my dreams, I imagine a morning without fear, no border patrol, no slurs in my ear; no child in a cage, no ICE at the door, just freedom that rings from the ceiling to the floor.
Shadows by Jose Sanchez-Diaz (age 18)
With our voices, we can break every wall, tear down the hatred that taught us to crawl. We are not invaders. We planted this land. We rise unafraid, with our history in our hands.
In our arms, we hold more than just pain. We plant esperanza like seeds in the drops of rain. We carry the dreams our padres once spoke, even when justice feels like a cruel joke.
Together, we rise from campos and fear, from barrios silenced, yet crystal clear. We march with our flags, rojo, blanco, y verde, not asking for crumbs, but standing muy fuerte.
We are the pulse they tried to ignore, the hands that built every roof and floor. We are not shadows. We are loud and alive. Con corazón y fuego, we will stand and survive.
Dreams by Larissa Batres (age 18)
Yo soy la hija de padres migrantes, los cuales dieron todo lo qué una vez tuvieron. Soy alguien qué mantendrá en alto mis ancestros, los cuales crearon a mi familia. I will always remember who I am, where I came from, and what I want to be.
I come from a little country in Central America where I lived for 9 years, a country that saw me grow, a country that taught me the reality of this world.
In the mirror, I see my family and their sacrifices, the struggles they had to endure. This is why I need to continue, I need to make my family proud. I need to show them, show that their sacrifices are not in vain.
In my dreams, I imagine a future, a future that holds me and my family together, a future in which I succeed in life. Mis sueños no son sólo sueños, son la realidad la cual quiero alcanzar.
Opportunity by Sebastian Anaya (age 18)
I am the opportunity that my ancestors did not have, the strength of those who sacrificed it all to have a better life. I come from the people que no se raja. Their determination makes me see that nothing is impossible. In the mirror, I see all the dreams that my ancestors did not accomplish. En mis manos, tengo el poder de realizar las metas de mi pueblo. In my dreams, I imagine a person who will do it all. I believe that I will reach all my dreams, not only for me, but for those who made it possible for me to have this opportunity.
Brown Skin by Victoria (age 18)
I am a proud Mexican who loves her brown skin. In the mirror, I see the reflection of my ancestors, all their blood and tears. I come from immigrant parents who crossed the border, looking for a better future for my siblings and me.
We found that they hate my people but love my culture and food. In my hands is the choice to show how they might kill us, but we will never leave.
In my dreams, I imagine a better world full of positive people who do not see us as aliens.
I notice the way they look at me for my brown skin. But it is what I am most proud of.
Somewhere Warm by Danna Orozco Hernández (age 19)
I am made in the combined shades of my dead coffee-colored eyes traced to old betrayals, bones wrapped in makeshift iron, nerves wired to lonesome handling spiky roads. My strength burns hot and loud, fueled by stubborn joy, by irreverent pride grinning through fractured teeth, by standing tall as the ash drips down on the eyelash of an empire sucked dry.
I come from soil-tenders, cast out by hawk-eyed men blinded by the sights of hollow gold. Their love primordial, work-hardened like hands breaking ground where water hums beneath the ruin, quietly healing; molding new chambers where memory sweetly ferments, drowning the bitter rattling of lost songs.
In the mirror, I catch a flicker a patchworked mannequin of borrowed limbs and remembered names.
Threadbare echoes stitched in skin, inked in pumping red to claim as mine. I reach out at the seams, claw to unpick, to rethread the pattern with restless hands need for new steeped in anxious shame, afraid I will run out of fabric worth wearing.
In my dreams, I imagine polished corridors, mirrored footsteps in shoes a half-size too tight. Smaller fish vanish down the current, others flicker like lanterns in the swamp. The springtime hope returns, a soft reminder: to age is a privilege, to err is to bloom. My future approaches like mountain water inevitable yet holy. Even turning left leads somewhere warm if you do not look away.
