JE#2

To be completely honest I do not ever remember learning about the Alamo, or the history of California, or even the Bracero program. Which, thinking back now is a huge problem. Even though these type of histories are told through the eyes of the conquerors they are some sort of representation of your culture. However, since I moved here from Mexicali...I don't think I ever saw myself reflected in any of the American history I was taught. What I did learn from the traditional American system is that lighter skin is priced and that the existence of brown folks is simply an insignificant footnote. The unfortunate part of this is that because I moved between Mexico and California on and off until I was in 5th grade my historical amnesia is fairly severe. I have learned a variety of histories about the borders and US/Mexico relations. Therefore, I don't know where I belong. Because I do not belong in either side, Mexican or American. I am both. However, one thing I can say that I am grateful for is that now that I am discovering aspects of my history I can appreciate it, cherish, and embody it. I do not feel that this is something that is only pertinent in the Chican@ community. I feel that the Black community may suffer worse from historical amnesia than even the Chican@ community. The black community has been snatched away from their homeland so long ago, that most American born Black citizens have no idea where their ancestors are from. Without knowing where their ancestors are from their history has become completely lost. I feel blessed (and I do acknowledge my privilege) that I can trace my roots to one location.