Bladimir Rodriguez, a senior at Cesar Chavez High school won first place in a poem contest with MECHA. Bladimir Rodriguez entered the contest not knowing what was yet to come, “It was my first poetry competition ever. I always ask my friends if they want to read my poems because I like to receive feedback. But I didn’t have any experience with poetry contests.” The poem that he wrote was about the pain people endure while coming to the United States leaving behind family and all they’ve ever known. ” I miss my family and culture, I have to stay here in order to have a better future.”

What inspired the poem is his home country El Salvador and the recent changes and views regarding immigrants and America. “Although a lot of people think we are all criminals the truth is that we have a beautiful culture.” When asked about how he felt about winning Bladimir Rodriguez replied that he had forgotten it was a contest, but that he was only doing what he loves and expressing his thoughts. ” I saw this contest as an opportunity to use my talent to tell people how I feel about coming to the U.S and living with the struggles of an immigrant. ”

The poem was submitted on September 1st, and was given to Mrs.Rivera who then sent it in to the contest. “After submitting, I felt very excited and I waited.” A week later Bladimir Rodriguez got the news of him winning first place.