"Fronteras Del Amor"

Last Friday, here in Chicago, I was fortunate to attend an outstanding performance by Teatro Americano. This presentation was a collaborative effort by Latinos Progresando. A local, grassroots organization that assists undocumented immigrants on issues of immigration and social justice.


The play was a concoction of social issues, ranging from healthcare, immigration, and the impact of gang violence in youth. The stories had been written by local youth from the Pilsen neighborhood in Chicago. The characters carried out the plot and really made an impact in the audience. I was engulfed by emotions ranging from sadness, anger, frustration and happiness.

I was mainly moved by a character named "Marisol". She is an undocumented teenager about to finish high school and considering college. She takes care of her grandfather and little brother, who is being lured by the local gangs. I could relate to Marisol's will to endure and go forth, despite the barriers placed all around her. I was moved and motivated seeing the performance and knowing that the play adds a much needed voice to the thousands of lives across the nation. It was indeed a lout statement on behalf of the voices that are silently and patiently waiting a DREAM to become a reality.

Once the play was over, they had a Q&A with the cast and two Korean youth activists, whom I'm proud to have met(I'm keeping their names anonymous for privacy). Both of these Dreamers are doing really amazing and inspiring work at the Korean American Resource and Cultural Center in Chicago. Both LP and KARCC had previously collaborated during the DA day of Action, on September 23rd.

I was surprised to learn that most of the people in the audience did not know a lot about the DREAM Act. It's very unfortunate that many people within our communities does not know the hardships some youth and families face. I'm very glad that this type of organizing and social awareness is continuously growing, raising awareness about the DA and CIR.

Overall, it was also therapeutic seeing someone take the stage vocalizing and re-enacting my worries and anxieties as well as my resiliency. I cannot thank enough the cast of Fronteras del Amor and the students who poured their emotions writing the stories behind the play.

In Freddie Mercury's words, "the show must go on."