DAHIL SIYO: A Letter to Lolo

Thousands of years of colonization set for a future of economic hardship and politcal devistation.
Lost culture and ideas from the rape and abuse,
an island hardly liveable and escape is what they pursue.
So lolo heard of stories of a new land with opportunity and political relief,
eager to pack his bags in search of a better life for his family.
"Honey let me go so I can prepare a new life for you, boy, and baby,
when the time is right, you three can settle with me."
Lola allows him to leave and lolo is set to the new land.
In awe of the beauty which surrounds him, the golden gate welcomes him
with a banner inscribed "The Land of the Free".
Passing the banner lolo fails to read the fine lines,
"The Land of the Free except if you're a Pilipino immigrant".
Field work, low wages, hands calloused and chapped,
barely making means for survival, so the I-Hotel is where you rest your head at.
Lolo never imagined to leave a hell hole to only get placed in another.
Discrimination, racism, and voilence is what you faced,
but protest for equality only made your cause stronger.
Lolo I cannot imagine sacrificing a home to a parking lot project,
getting beat by police for standing up for a roof over your head,
or losing your dignity, being dragged out of your room.
Saddness and anger I share with you even though many years have elapsed.
I am proud of your struggle for it only made us tougher.
Inspired from by your drive, influencing generations after.
You have scratched out the fine print and written,
"The Land of the Free to speak my mind, fight against unjust causes, and demand for equality"
With this brown skin and bright head on these shoulders,
I'll represent you proudly.

Salamat Lolo. (Thanks grandpa)


-by:Crystle Presa