Jordan Esparza,
Houston, TX

I was always told to be the example of what to do. I come from a mixed family and everyone has the same expectations. On my dad’s side, I am supposed to represent my hispanic heritage, but on my mom’s side, I must represent my white heritage. I am the oldest compared to my younger siblings, and cousins. I am the first grandchild, the example. I was always told that I must set the example for my little cousins and siblings. I must never go against my families wishes, or I would be disappointing. My white side of the family sees me as a “burrito baby”. I was called that since I’ve been born. I call myself white because I am white passing, even though I have much more heritage than the average white person. I am the ‘perfect’ eldest grandchild, that calls herself white because I’m scared of what everyone else will think about me. No 17 year old should worry about what race she is.