October 5, 2022
Senior Abby Sanchez’s parents immigrated to America at different stages of their lives; her mom when she was five, and her dad when he was 20. Previously, both her parents lived in small rural towns in Mexico, where the only job opportunities within 50 miles were agricultural.
Sanchez’s parents had completely different experiences as immigrants. Her mother’s parents decided to bring their family to America to offer more opportunities to their children. They specifically chose San Francisco for its public schools, which were better than the private schools in Mexico.
Sanchez’s father, on the other hand, immigrated to California alone when he was 20. Previously, he worked as a schoolteacher in Mexico, but was not valued or appreciated, and so he looked to the United States for a better career.
Last year, in 2021, student success coordinator Leslie Escoto approached Sanchez about starting a Latinx club at Burlingame. Sanchez, took the offer and became the president of the school’s first Latinx club in a decade.
“In a way, [the Latinx club] resembles this year’s theme,” Sanchez said. “I wanted to connect Latino students at BHS and allow for a common space, as well as for allies that feel that gravitate towards and appreciate the Latino community.”
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, Sachez’s family talks about the importance of Mexican history, specifically its indigenous roots.
“We talk about the importance of certain achievements in history. Like when Mexico was freed from Spain,” Sanchez said. “It is important to highlight the danger and the effect of colonization… We have to recognize and look back on what was taken away, and remember actual Mexican history. We talk about traditions that are Indigenous not just the ones with Spanish history.”
Aside from reflecting on Mexico’s history, Sanchez emphasized the importance of celebrating the month in America, not just in Hispanic nations.
“I think it’s important because in the past in the United States, Hispanic people, Latino people, were marginalized,” Sanchez said. “We were segregated and endured traumatic things. It’s important that we recognize the month to remember our history in America. Remember that we are visible.”
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Lizzy Wan is a senior at Burlingame and excited for her third year in journalism as the Diversity Coordinator. On the weekends you can find Lizzy stocking...
