While I won’t be diving deep into the past cultural misrepresentation of some adaptations of this movie, I will say that I can only speak on my neighborhood, which is predominantly Puerto Rican, soaked in tradition, love, music, community, and vibrant nuances that have continually shaped me as a Chicagoan. Well, let me ask, what is the timeframe to be considered one—a year, two years, five years? (One Uber driver told me atleast five) At any rate, I take great pride every single day in being here in this particular borough. With the extremes of ICE, bigotry, racism, violence, and imprisonment of families not only here but all over Chicagoland, this year has proven one thing: we will not stand for this. Not today. Not EVER. We will speak, march, and advocate for those who cannot. A special thank you to those souls who let me vent in frustration while provoking me to engage in thoughtful dialogue on this platform. I can’t begin to understand everyone’s struggle, and why minorities and women (that’s another topic to be shared) are being treated so poorly in our current state, but standing firm in our convictions is a start. Wherever you lean, equal rights are universal. We all bleed the same. You matter. You always did. You always will. Lead with love and grace. Hold strong to the light, bebes!

Music Cue: Northside Violet by Mo Lowds & the Humble