J.W.

What is being an undocumented immigrant like for you?  
“I was aware of my status ever since I entered the US but did not know the actual significance of it. I realized that it was a big deal in the middle of high school when my teachers were confused why I was not applying to the scholarships they were sending me. The common phrase “hard work pays off” did not apply to me nor any of members of the undocumented community. Our hard work has never been recognized nor paid off.”

What does justice and safety look like to you?

“Justice is when those who are often at disadvantage, are given the most advantages so that they can be a part of the community... A few months ago, I was kicked by a homeless man on the streets...There were two police officers standing there and none approached me nor the man. It was the people who witnessed the incident who helped me out and making sure I was okay. The budget spent on the police system could instead be put in the education system and specifically improve the schools in neighborhoods where people of color live in.” 

Interviewee uses the diary drawn to share her thoughts and feelings whenever she needs to.