Over the course of this week, I had the privilege, honor, and power to go and vote in this year’s midterm elections. Being a first-generation Mexican American woman, historically, even a century ago, I didn’t have the right to vote, and neither did my ancestors. However, this now changes with me, with the sacrifice of my parents migrating, the advocacy of my ancestors, and me having the privilege of being a citizen; I was able to vote on Tuesday, November third, 2026. I had my ballot mailed to me back home, but I couldn’t make the trip back to Kent, so I decided to go to the city hall of Seattle and vote in person.Â
On the way there, I was anxious, nervous, excited, and overall ready to see the change the country needs. Once I arrived with my friend Bryanna, we waited and waited in line at first, not knowing what to expect. Eventually, we were able to get and deposit our ballots; we officially voted. I have never been so proud of the youth, the adults, the non-partisan people who helped the voting drives, and lastly of myself. Not only was I voting for the safety of my parents, of my family, a better future for my students, and a country where no human is dehumanized or belittled, I also voted for all the sacrifices my parents made to make sure I can advocate my beliefs and values. Â
Now that elections are over and seeing that we won the House back, Texas flipped blue; North and South Carolina won blue. And, most importantly, a former teacher, James Talrico, won Texas, which made me feel hopeful for the future my students will be living in. For a better future for education and, overall, a more secure future with politics in our country.Â
Therefore, I am proud to be a product of immigrants who voted in this year’s midterms. I am proud of the beliefs, morals, and values my parents instilled in me, and to know that I voted in an educated manner for the better life my parents migrated for.Â