My great-grandfather shared the stories of his tiempos (time) in the hot summer field and he reminded us of all the sacrifices he made for my grandparents. Inspired by his description of the uncomfortable work conditions, this quilt poses the question whether or not America actually supported the Si Se Puede motto. This slogan means ‘yes we can’ and typically is followed by an exclamation mark, however I choose to use question marks because my grandfather worked hard never knowing what his blood, sweat and tears would amount to. Soon I will be the first in my family to go to college, I am a product of my great grandfather’s work ethic and his efforts are not taken for granted.

Created at the Social Justice Sewing Academy, Berkeley, CA