As the Tension between Ukraine and Russia increases, there have been numerous cases where many children travel large distances to find safety.
A specific case that caught my attention was the case of an 11 year old “Hero Boy” who traveled 700 miles from Ukraine without his parents to find safety.
To some this could be considered a life challenging experience that requires much bravery and independence. Although this is all true, I truly ask myself if the word hero is appropriate when knowing that it creates inequality.
To give some context this 11 year old boy is white skinned and is traveling in Europe.
My true concern is not in relation to him or his ethnicity, but most importantly in relation to the way he is portrayed and the way WE are portrayed.
As many may know there are hundreds if not thousands of Latino boys and girls traveling from their home countries to the U.S. every single day.
In my own family at least 80 % immigrated from Mexico, some even pregnant while doing so.
Not once in my life have I seen a national news company or anyone refer to us as heros or even brave.
To me, this is a clear example of inequality and even racism.
My grandparents and parents, just as this kid, are all examples of what true bravery is, but the way in which we are both differently portrayed is just not right.
Both sides are running from injustices, wars, oppression, and lack of government guidance, but we still don't get equal acknowledgement.
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