Soy Bracero

Between 1942 and 1964, men from different parts of Mexico left their lands
and families seeking an opportunity for prosperity in the Unites States as
Braceros. Their job was to work the agricultural fields of the United States
while American citizens manufactured weapons or joined the fighting lines of
WWII. Braceros were instrumental in placing the U.S. as an agricultural power.

While Braceros were in the U.S. they encountered poor working and living
conditions, not to mention despotism, cruelty, and racism from foremen, ranchers,
authorities, and residents of the United States alike.

My grandfather, Eleuterio Vazquez Sanchez, left his town in the state of Jalisco,
Mexico around 1954 to try his fortune in the United States as a Bracero. He left
his wife, my grandmother, their three daughters, and his land behind for a chance
at a better life. His departure not only affected him; it affected my grandmother
and their children.