The Concept Of Being Mexican-American

When I was younger I never really fully grasped the concept of being Mexican-American. When my mom would ask me, “What are you?” I would simply reply, “I’m white.” Thankfully, over the years, I have come to fully understand my heritage and appreciate the culture that is immersed with being Latino. My dad was fifteen years when he did something I can never even imagine about doing; he crossed the border. He sacrificed so much in order to live a better life, without him I would not be writing this essay right now. My mother is a first generation Mexican-American, like myself, and also experienced the affects of her parents wanting more for their family. Fortunately for us, our family has strived in today’s society and would not be where we are without hardwork and dedication.
At the time I had no idea this move would impact me in such a large way. I live in Exeter, a small town in eastern Pennsylvania where most of the residents are white. Growing up one of the only colored families on the block was difficult, but the most difficult part for me was going to a predominantly white school. I am possibly only one of three Mexican-Americans in my entire school. I would consider myself as a kind person, but even the nicest colored person faces racism no matter what the circumstances, with that said, I did face racist comments and microaggressions at times. I remember two instances that affected me severely; two instances in which I will never forget how I felt and the words that I will never get out of my