This painting is a portrait of my mom. She’s an early childhood educator, and someone I admire more than anyone. I wanted to honor her story—where she came from, what she’s had to fight for, and what she continues to stand for. She grew up in a poor family in Mexico, and through strength, resilience, and education, she built a life where she now gives so much of herself to others.

She’s wearing a traditional huipil and a white skirt to show her cultural roots—something she’s always been proud of and has taught me to be proud of. Behind her is a fabric with birds and tree branches, symbolizing growth, freedom, and the future—because that’s what she brings to children every day through her work. The birds also represent her students—each one taking flight because of her. Not only that but owls are seen through cultures to be the sign of education. If there’s one message my mom wants to get out it’s that Education is Power. From her own words “Simply put, education is power; and those in power don't want all to be educated. Education allows for critical thinking, and it starts at birth. That's my activism, in early childhood education “

To the left, I included a handwritten note that says “Pay Equity.” That’s important. It speaks to the fight she’s constantly in. Early childhood educators are some of the most important people in our society, yet they’re undervalued and underpaid. People think they’re just “babysitting,” but they are laying the foundation for everything that comes after in a child’s life. My mom knows that, and she advocates fiercely for that recognition.

This piece is personal, but it’s also political. It’s about honoring my mom, but also about telling a larger story—one about access, justice, and how education has the power to lift people up. My mom is living proof of that.