I am Originally from Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. Even though as a child I was participating in every form or art, I never pursued any art related degree. I needed my safety net and I did what most people in Mexico do. Work. Then I pursued a business degree. I wish I could say that I was always an activist. I did volunteer work for my local orphanage and The Drug Abuse Rehabilitation Center, but when I witnessed injustice I was always too afraid to speak up. 

This amazing life took me to Kingston, New York where I got the opportunity to reconnect with my creativity and I was lucky enough to connect with many courageous people that work relentlessly for equality in our community. These people inspired me to take action and be louder. Even though I am still learning, I believe I have come closer to understanding my purpose in life and what brings me true joy: art, community and equality.

Why do I think people should apply to Stories for Freedom? 
In a world where social media is homogenizing our way of thinking with blank statements and doctrines that seem to interfere with people’s critical thinking, we need to connect with what is the truth for each of us. 

We need radically true nuanced stories that show our humanity; sometimes ugly but always real. We need to hear those kinds of stories and share them too. With no filters and no shame. 

It is hard to keep a positive mind, or see the beauty in the world, when so many people are denied the opportunity to be free, But, I have always been a hopeful person, and I think there are a lot of brave people out there speaking up, organizing, and doing their part for liberation and justice. 

They are the people doing what sometimes feels impossible. We need to know them and their stories.

How have I experienced freedom through storytelling? 
Sometimes when I try to define freedom, the first thing that comes to my mind is the right to be oneself. And, it is not simple. 

As an immigrant woman living in the United States I often wonder how much I can be myself without feeling reflected or judged.

When I participated in TMI Project’s storytelling workshop, I was able to say out loud, “I don’t feel American enough. I don’t feel Mexican enough,” it was a complete relief. I made peace with that feeling and I was able to own it, even in my Mexican culture where acknowledging that I was not Mexican enough could be taken as a sacrilege. 

Sometimes you don’t think about yourself as a prisoner until you are able to escape. 

Is there a changemaker that inspires you to fight for freedom through their storytelling?
I am most inspired by artists who use their art to fight for freedom. I admire Frida Kahlo for her work towards workers rights and LGBTQ rights. I also admire the Chilean group Las Tesis, who basically started a revolution in Chile with a song that was played around the world, protesting the patriarchy and abuse of the governments. 
I am also inspired by the parents out there who encourage their kids to be involved in their communities, making sure they understand their footprint on this world and teaching them how to respect and care for everyone, regardless of any differences.