I like that I’m able to show people that there are different types of women. I play different kinds of roles – I’m a business owner, I like to dress up, I’m an activist and I love playing soccer, but I’m one person. I am Mexican, I wasn’t born here. I’m dark-skinned. I am a woman. I’m low-income. I’m breaking down prejudices on different sides, acting as a bridge between communities.
For me to open up, I had to listen to someone else open up first. I had to know that they could carry the weight of what was going on in my heart.
Hair has always been important to me. It’s how I express myself. Whether or not my hair is done can affect my attitude or how I approach certain situations. And if my hair is not done it can also be detrimental to my confidence.
I want to change the narrative of what people think of me, so I wanted to tell a story about my life. I want to bring awareness to the southwest side of the city and to let people know that this community isn’t lazy and violent. We’re hopeful, we’re striving to live our lives, to have families, to settle down. We’re good people but because of what’s happening around us, it’s really challenging.
It’s that time of year! Make sure to add fresh yli gear to your list!
Pick one up for yourself and don’t forget one for a dope youth leader in your life. Knowing that all proceeds go to making sure that young people have a voice just makes each purchase that much sweeter. Click the link for options – from Stranger Things to Classic Tees – but make sure to get yours before they’re gone!
When I had a chance to reevaluate what I really wanted to do with my life, I realized that it was not just about money, but about doing something you love every day.
For the farm workers living in the Eastern Coachella Valley, their jobs rely on their ability to not only stand the heat, but work strenuously while the blazing sun beats on their backs. For women like Maria E. though, the scorching heat is not the most dangerous part of her job.
Aaron Smith, a 17-year-old highschooler from Atwater, brings her identity in front of the camera despite controversy surrounding gender norms in the Central Valley.
