Francisco Lemus,
Sanger, CA.
These six words signify that I am more than just brown. People tend to categorize others based on how they look, and using that to clump them in a certain group with preconceptions about their ways of life. I have had moments where I was not seen as American because of my skin color. Although I am brown, it is not my only characteristic. I am not ashamed to tell others that I have a latin american background with a name to match. The problem comes up when people say that my name and heritage define all parts of me; that I fit the stereotypical mold. I am also an American, and participate in American customs and traditions, as well as ones from my latin american heritage. Color does not define you–character does.
