Undocumented Students’ Cartoneras Collections
The Undocumented Students’ Cartoneras Collections seeks to capture the voices of undocumented students on campus and relate their experiences studying at Grand Valley State University. Cartoneras are handmade books made with cardboard covers that originated in Latin America as both a social and political movement. In the spirit of highlighting voices that may otherwise be unheard, undocumented students on campus created cartoneras that speak about their experiences not only as students, but as individuals. This project launched in Winter 2022 and continues to collect cartoneras to expand the collection on a yearly basis.
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Pal Norte
Grand Valley State University Undocumented Student
This cartonera details the personal experiences of a GVSU student who identifies as undocumented. The cartonera details the student’s journey to el Norte and the sacrifices family members have made to remain in the United States. The student details the tradeoffs and feelings of exclusion they have experienced, ending with a declaration to speak their truth for all who came before and those who will come after.
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Ser Feliz Es Mi Identidad
Grand Valley State University Undocumented Student
This cartonera details the personal experiences of a first-generation Mexican-American GVSU student who identifies as undocumented. The cartonera touches on activism, the fear of deportation, and the great responsibility placed on children of immigrants as they attempt to build a better life. This work asks the important question of whether freedom is truly achievable for undocumented individuals in the United States and ends with a dedication to those who feel unseen and go unheard.
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Untitled
Grand Valley State University Undocumented Students
This cartonera shares the experiences of various GVSU students who identify as undocumented and have shared their stories with the author. The cartonera details how student’s struggle to complete schoolwork due to competing priorities and the varied responsibilities they carry, particularly in mixed status households. This work calls on individuals working in higher education to become informed as to the struggles of undocumented students and maintain awareness of new movements and legislative bills that may impact a student’s ability to engage in the classroom and/or complete their studies.
