Photo taken at the art competition exhibit opening and awards reception at Pico House Plaza.  In order from left to right: Left to Right: Norma Roque (Emcee and Reporter for Univision); Jamilet Bautista, Bell resident and junior at Maywood Academy High School; Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard; Entry Title: United Immigrants We Are; Tracy Kelly (Executive Director of Art Share Los Angeles); Kara Medrano (Chair of the 2009 Organizing Committee and Legislative Analyst for Central Basin Municipal Water District); and Lorraine Michelson (Maywood Academy HS Art Instructor).

Quote by Jamilet Bautista; Honorable Mention;11th Grade; Maywood Academy High School; Instructor: Lorraine Michelson;

United Immigrants We Are; Pencil.

“Personally I believe that art is more than a form of expression but an insight to a possible background story. Because I was born in the United States, I have witnessed so much controversy over the idea of letting illegal immigrants become American citizens.  The harsh reality can be found through the words of many immigrants that are working hard every day, providing food and supplies for their children, who are fighting discrimination amongst racial folks in communities, and who are aiming high to succeed the American Dream without any complaints.  I certainly take pride in my Mexican culture, and I thought that entering the Congressional Student Art Competition would be an excellent way to portray the realities of what many immigrants living in Los Angeles hope for.  An unforgettable event took place in Los Angeles in March of 2006, where many Hispanics protested HR4437, opposing the deportation of immigrants. Being part of this protest has inspired me greatly and is one reason why I sympathize for the many immigrants that gave up one work day to speak their minds.  March 26, 2006 was such an important day for many immigrants living in Los Angeles, and that is one story I will keep on telling.”