Dear Jackie,

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next because after reading your artist statement, I felt empowered. Reading your artist statement made me realize that we should learn to ignore the different stereotypes people think about us and learn to love ourselves for who we are. I also appreciate how you made it clear that even though you weren’t what people expected you to be, like for example Mexican, you still were proud enough to say you weren’t and you are proud to be Native American/Tongan. Again, thanks for writing and I’m hoping to hear more from you, until next time!

Sincerely,
Jennifer R.

Hi Jackie! My name is Miah and I’m a student at San Jose State University. Your shadow box is beautiful! I love how you acknowledged where you come from with different artifacts related to your ethnicity such as the sage and the beaded earrings. It was such a cool idea to put the flag of Mexico on the outside of the box showing that it maybe what people see on the outside, but that’s not what you are on the inside. It was a very nice touch.

Dear Jackie,
I really like your artist statement. Also thanking you for sharing your story with us and all of your culture and traditions with us.

Sincerely,
Fernanda B.S

Hello Jackie! My name is Aerielle, I am a student at San Jose State! In your shadow box you did a really good job of summarizing who you are! Like you, I embrace who I am too! I’m happy that you are happy with who you are and you are proud of every aspect of yourself! The earring seems like something really cool to learn how to make! Do you know how to make an earring like that as well? I like that you added things that you struggled with because it shows that you acknowledge these hardships and you are now past it and have grown up and learned from it. It is good to accept the problems you encounter in life and learn from it! Good job on your shadow box!