You’ve taught my people that our presence here was crucial

You recognized our strengths and knew we were beyond your flaws, didn’t you, America?

You praised us becaused now it was possible to be seen as an inclusive nation while      

maintaining your oppressive nature

It was now acceptable because you knew we were going to be resilient to the trials and

tribulations thrown at us

 

So, blindly, we made our journey to you, America

Days and nights through the blazing deserts of Mexico

Constantly wondering if we would ever live to meet you with your promised warm embrace

At night, laying underneath the spiraling blanket of the vast universe, we began to dream

A dream so obscure, but not far from reach

A dream of prosperity for our children

A dream of peace for our souls

No longer did we have to worry, America, when we were with you

You promised us a better life and that promise was going to be worth our aching limbs and

broken hearts

 

But when we met, I could not fathom the half of it

You fed me your hatred, I spit it out in disgust

You threw at me discrimination, but I turned it into a game of catch with my brothers and sisters

Your nasty words did not phase me, so try harder, America

 

Or so I thought.

At night, I would cry myself to sleep because I knew I had left my life behind only to feel your

wrath.

Tears, pouring down my cheeks when I began to think of my children and how they would

experience what I did.

The only thing I could hold onto was the Dream.

The Dream was the reason I could wake up the next morning, renewed of the spirit and clear of

the mind.

I will tolerate the oppression if it means prosperity for my children and grandchildren

And one day, the spark of courage they need will reignite, and they will speak out against you so

nobody will have to endure the pain I did.

 

We know that if we call out to you, we should expect no response

From this day forward, we fight for the Dream, united because you taught us that there was no

other choice.