Celebrating Immigrant Heritage Month and PTSD Awareness Month: My Story

Jun 13, 20243 min read

Updated: Jan 24

Trigger alert! This post may be triggering to some.

Immigrant Heritage & PTSD Awareness

June is a month of profound significance for many of us. It marks both Immigrant Heritage Month and PTSD Awareness Month—two observances that resonate deeply with my personal journey.

As we celebrate the diverse tapestry of cultures that enrich our nation and raise awareness about the invisible wounds carried by many, I feel compelled to share my story

My Story: Arrival in the United States

I arrived in the United States at the tender age of five with a tourist visa, but after six months, I became undocumented as my aunt decided to keep me in the US. Completely separated from my parents and siblings, I lived with minimum contact with my family from age five until twelve, enduring numerous challenges, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. At the age of five, I was forced to speak only English, adapt to American norms, and encounter experiences that no child should ever face. I was even given a new name to use for medical visit purposes. I know it sounds harsh, but this was my reality. These years were marked by loneliness, trauma, fear, and a profound sense of displacement.

Back to My Native Country

At the age of twelve, my father had the opportunity to bring me back to my native country. This transition was a cultural shock. I had to relearn Spanish and navigate relationships with my mother, siblings, and family members with whom I could barely communicate. The faces which should have felt familiar, felt like strangers, and the cultural nuances that should have been second nature felt foreign. The experience was jarring, and the process of reintegration was a massive challenge.

Grit is a trait

whereby a person has the

perseverance and passion to achieve long-term goals.

Returning to the United States in my early twenties presented another wave of cultural shock. I was now straddling two worlds, trying to find my footing in each. Adapting to these two different cultures at such critical stages of my life was incredibly difficult. It required resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering determination to carve out a space where I could feel accepted and feel that I belonged in the US. As my daughter puts it "It required grit mom and this you have!".

Many immigrants face similar stories of hardship and resilience. We must remain open to cultural differences, particularly in the diverse world we live in today. The struggles of immigrants are often invisible, but their contributions and the richness they bring to the social fabric are immeasurable.

It's essential to be mindful of our words and actions, as we are surrounded by individuals who have migrated to the United States, each with their unique journey and story. Understanding and empathy can go a really long way in creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.

As we honor Immigrant Heritage Month, let's celebrate the courage, strength, and resilience of immigrants who have overcome incredible odds to build better lives for themselves, their families, and our communities. And as we observe PTSD Awareness Month, let's recognize the silent battles many continue to fight, offering our support and understanding.

By sharing our stories and listening to others, we can foster a sense of community and solidarity, making the world a more empathetic place for all.