This poem was inspired by the fierce and courageous Latina women I see every day, both inside and outside my family. Latina women undergo so much, especially those in the past who have dealt with colonization and violence in their home countries. I hope this poem expresses my admiration and gratitude for all Latina women, both dead and alive.
I bow down at the feet
of the Latina women made of iron
and those made of clay
Your sobs are only
drops on my cheeks
pain I will never experience
Latina women I love you
let me wash the blood
off your feet
Allow me to rub out your aches
for all the years
you carried me on your shoulders
