Op Comic: The infinite garden of my Mexican grandfather

In a survey conducted by the nonprofit KFF and the Los Angeles Times, immigrants were asked about their experiences living in the U.S. Despite the constant struggles that most reported, the common theme among the ethnicities, places of origin and cultures was optimism. Most people faced financial difficulties, fear of deportation, low-paying jobs, and discrimination. My grandparents, both from Mexico, overcame incredible obstacles, endured poverty, and even survived a violent hate crime that nearly took my grandfather's life. All this was to support the following generations. It is a goal that was echoed in the survey. Through my grandfather's story, I wanted to show that this country is, and always has been, improved thanks to immigrants.

Fifi Martinez is a Chicana cartoonist from Los Angeles.