El huisache es pocho, pero las raices no: Poems

This project is a collection of pocho poetry. The poems in my collection emphasize my identity as pocho. The term "pocho" is often used as a derogatory term describing a Mexican American who has lost the ability to speak Spanish. I recontextualize the border pocho as an occupant of two nationalities, as well as several social classes. Along with poets who identify themselves as Chicano/a, I am inspired by family and acquaintances who self identify as Chicano/a, Hispanic, Mexican American, or Mexican. I believe the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas is a unique enclave influenced by its people, landscape, and language. My poetry incorporates family life, growing up in Alton, and talking mocho.