My great grandfather was part of the bracero Program

by Maia Abeyta

The young man in this image is my great grandfather: Vitervo Holguin, at age 28. He was born on September 3, 1921 and died June 15, 1997.

Why is this image important?

This image is important because of its historical meaning; it’s a symbol of the struggles that my great grandfather had to go through to survive as a Latino man. As I read more about the bracero program, it makes me sad to think of all the bad conditions, treatment, hours and bad wages that he had to endure in order to support his wife and children. His photo is a constant reminder or who we are and where we come from; it’s a priceless possession we have of our family history. My gratitude and pride intensify as I realize that his struggle was a catapult for his family’s success, and for my success. I am Vitervo’s great-granddaughter, I am proud of him and I can only hope that he is proud of me.