Where Fear Ends, Freedom Begins
To me, freedom means having the ability—and the courage—to speak up. The First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech in the U.S., but even when that right exists, it takes strength to use it. Speaking out takes guts—but it’s how change begins.
Two years ago, I witnessed close friends—people I once considered family—exploit the kindness my family and I had shown them. A mistake I made sparked it all, and frustratingly, I couldn’t defend myself. Although I took accountability, I didn’t have the courage to defend myself when things got out of hand. I broke down in tears; it took a hard hit of reality to teach me that freedom sometimes means finding your voice when silence once felt safe.
From it, I learned that not everyone reciprocates kindness and that standing up for myself and others takes courage, not just intention. That moment lit a fire in me, and I promised myself I wouldn’t be silent again. For years, I avoided conflict and bit my tongue, but that wasn’t freedom—it was fear. My parents built a home where I didn’t have to raise my voice to be heard. Leaving for college as a first-gen student was hard, but facing the reality that I’d have to stand up for myself with courage I hadn’t yet found was harder.
As I’ve grown older, my understanding of freedom has evolved. While it once meant late curfews and no homework deadlines, it now means to advocate and use my education to instill change. Freedom is using your voice—not just for yourself, but for those still finding theirs. This motto has fueled my decision to study political science and pursue law school post-undergrad. I never want to be in a position where I can’t advocate for others, or lack the knowledge to create real solutions. This summer, I've worked to improve my advocacy skills. The NMSHSA interns and I spoke on the “Power Station” podcast about farmworker struggles and exploitation. I told the host/creator, Anne Pasmanick, that it’s difficult to detail the agricultural labor I did for six summers, every year, but it is the work that my parents continue to do every single day. I fight back tears every time I give our testimony, but I stay strong for my community and our future. I always remember how much bravery it takes to speak your mind, even when your voice shakes. To feel the fear, and do it anyway.