I grew up with thinking that I would never have the ability to have hopes or dreams. Just as every kid did on their birthday, they would blow out their candles and make a wish, about toys or being able to fly, but mine were to feel accepted. I grew up where everyone only spoke English, and had lighter skin then me, I never felt like I would fit in or be able to do the things many kids around me would do, but once I got to high school, was when I realized I am just as capable of doing anything just as everyone else. I've always doubted myself until the day of graduation where I finally felt accepted and capable of doing anything I ever wanted, like being the first in my family to go to college.

I think, making them feel heard. Students that want to be involved, want to be apart of making a change or being a helping hand is how I feel we should show support to. Maybe by honoring them or thanking them for taking time to show up or being there for the community.

I relate to this statement, because as a kid growing up in a Mexican household I was taught to speak only when told to, dealt with tough love, and many other reasons that had me grow up holding all types of emotions which made me a quiet kid, because my feelings weren't valid. I never had a sibling or anyone to lean my head on but once I started experiencing friendships, being around cousins my age, going to school or events and meeting new people, being able to cry to someone with out feeling ashamed, I then started to develop many forms of communication skills and I'm still slowly learning more through new experiences.