Dear Maritza and Alejandra, (November 10, 2016)

I want to begin by telling you two how loved you are by your parents, your grandparents, and of course, by your auntie Luz. I'm writing to you because this week, our 45th president was elected, Donald Trump.

Alejandra, at this time you are four years old so you do not understand what is going on. Maritza, on the other hand, you are seven years old and today you told me, "Donald Trump doesn't want us to speak Spanish." I thought you were too young to understand, however, today I realized that you are listening and trying to make sense of it when you hear us talk about our fears. Since Trump will be our president for four years, Alejandra will grow to understand a little bit and Maritza, you will be in your preteen years and understand more.

Donald Trump started his campaign with accusing Mexicans to be, "criminals, rapists, and drug dealers." You two are second-generation Americans and I always want you to be proud of your roots. I did not want a president for my nieces who has said very negative things about their grandparents and their father. Not only that but Trump has made sick remarks about women. As Mexican-American girls he has put down not only you two, but me, your mom, and women from all over the country.

Although he has offended many, not only Mexicans and women, I still have hope. I hope Donald Trump proves us wrong. I hope he surprises us and becomes a great president. I hope he is a president for the people. I hope he helps make progress in the United States. I hope he takes the position seriously. I also hope that the hate this election brought stops. I hope we can come together regardless of race or gender and make this great country stronger. I hope that you two never face racism because of the color of your skin. I hope that you embrace where you come from and love the country your father and grandparents came to for a better life.

Maritza and Alejandra, although in this election we did not make history by having our first female president, just know one day it will happen. Know that anything is possible if you set your mind to it and never give up. I want the two of you to take advantage of the endless possibilities this country has to offer. Never forget where you come from but never lose sight of where you are going.

Maritza and Alejandra, I love you two. This election brought fear to a lot of us but I promise we will turn this fear into strength. I have hope that this country will one day stop hating and start unifying.

Love,

Your aunt.