It is important to emphasize that I have two first names – Luz Victoria. When I say my names out loud, more often than not, people look for ways to change them.
Can I call you Lucy?
Luz means light, right? Can I call you light?
Victoria is a pretty name… Can I call you Vicky?
These are the most common responses. I try to explain its personal significance rather than take offense to people changing my name to make it more palatable in their mouths.
I am a proud Chicana, raised in two special San Diego communities. The first is Logan Heights, in a lovely fawn-colored home only a few blocks from Chicano Park. The second is where I live now, in the South Bay Nestor community. From my house, one can see Tijuanas’ homes and lights, and in a 20minute bike ride, I can be at Border Field State Park.
I am currently a part of the Class of 2024 at Princeton University. I hope to take advantage of as many opportunities as the University has to offer during the next four years. I want to take awe-inspiring classes, explore the world, and meet like-minded individuals. In the future, I hope to return to San Diego and share this knowledge with my community. I would like to continue participating in community activism and empower young people to seek opportunities offered in higher education.
Images on this page can be credited to <luzvictoria.org>.