Ashani Jeffries 00:01

All right. Well, I am Ashani Jeffries. I am here with Emily Portillo from Fairfax, Virginia. This interview is being conducted at the James Cabell Library. It is March 27, 2024. And it is currently 5:25. Thank you for joining us.

 

Emily Portillo 00:18

No problem. Yeah, that's it.

 

Ashani Jeffries 00:22

So first, let's just ask about your basic background. So, where are you from? I know you said, You're from, um, Fairfax, your family? How did you grow up? What's your childhood?

 

Emily Portillo 00:32

So basically, when I was born, I was born in Fairfax Hospital, basically. And I lived there for like, a couple of um, years. And then I moved to Manassas. That's where I spent like most of my childhood prior to seven, when I was seven years old. And, um, yeah, and once I turned seven, around, when I was seven, there was some, um, family issues. My, from what my mom tells me, my grandma from my father's side was sick. And so basically, um, I should share- to be fair, I'm not sure whether if it's my grandfather's or mother's side. But like, one of my grandparents was sick. And basically, uh, we went in our issues. And we went, we moved back to El Salvador, we moved back from my parents, but for me, that was the first time seeing there, and living there and stuff. So, by the age of seven, I had-my half of my childhood was in the US, and half of my childhood was in Salvador. So, I lived there for five years, until I was 12. And I went supposedly, here as a vacation. And then the plan was to once the vacation was over, to- back to El Salvador. But basically, some stuff happened. And that led me to stay here for um, since I was 12, and then from 12, and then on I've been here and stuff. So yeah, that's like my I guess, basic childhood story.

 

Ashani Jeffries 02:10

All right, where'd you go to school, both locations?

 

Emily Portillo 02:14

For when I was little. For elementary school, I went to Ellis Elementary School, which is in Manassas, Virginia. And then I went, then I had to move to El Salvador and El Salvador-it was, uh the school's called Colegio Americano, and which is in San Salvador. And I was there for, I think, three years, from second grade to fourth grade, along with my sister. Uh, and then once fourth grade ended, there were some issues with the school. Uh, and so we moved. We went out-my sister, and I went to another school, which is called Colegio US basically. They-there's different interpretations of the name of the school. So-but I just abbreviated as US because of this-that's the one that's common. And I spent there for fifth grade to sixth grade. And then I was supposed to go back there, but due to the issues, I went back to the US and from middle school to finish seventh grade eighth grade, I went to one middle school, and that was in Gainesville, Virginia. I settled in Gainesville; my family and I settled in Gainesville. And then for high school, I went to well, for the first semester-for the first, um, quarter, I went to Hilton High School, which is in Richmond County, Virginia. But then-because there was a program that I could join. But then, uh, there was-there's was difficulties in, uh, transportation. So that led me transfer back to my, um, main school, which was Battlefield High School. So, from 2018 to 2022-I was studying at Battlefield High School. And yeah, I finished, I graduated class of 2022. And then I started here at VCU at 2022, same time of the fall semester. And that's the school I've been attending so far. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 04:20

Wow, that's a lot of schools!

 

Emily Portillo 04:22

Yeah. I don't know, feel like a lot of other people, like military kids, especially they-it's like oh, five to six. I'm like, Oh my God, that's crazy stuff.

 

Ashani Jeffries 04:32

So do you have like a, favorite experience in any of the schools that you went to, or was it pretty egalitarian?

 

Emily Portillo 04:38

Um, I guess my high school wise, Battlefield, I was in color guard, especially, uh, senior year. Basically, I did marching band, which is the fall and then I did Winter Guard, which is just purely colorguard. And that was a fun experience. Um, in terms of middle school, I really don't have a favorite experience, but I guess in like, my Salvadorian schools I attended…. my favorite one is at- like each month, like there was something to do. I guess like sometimes you perform plays, sometimes we sang in front of parents, and stuff. And I think-and I think since it was uniforms, which was more popular-like sometimes once a while Fridays you had-you wore jeans basically. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 05:36

Like a casual Friday?

 

Emily Portillo 05:37

Yeah, just a casual Friday. And it-but the point was in it was kind of a fundraiser at the same time because you asked for $1. You can wear jeans like, for $1 for some reason. Kind of weird saying it out loud- looking back at it now. I haven't thought about that in ages. Um, but yeah. Yeah, I guess like, was like festivities that high school had. So yeah, that was it. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 06:02

That sounds like a lot of fun. Do you have any family members that are still living in El Salvador? 

 

Emily Portillo 06:07

That are still living? 

 

Ashani Jeffries 06:09

Like- yeah, living in the area. 

 

Emily Portillo 06:10

Oh yeah we have, um basically, speaking of family members , my grandma, my grandparents from my mother's side, my Grandma's here visiting right now. But she usually lives in our house in a tiny town. That's called Antiguo Cuscatlan, which is in El Salvador, so that's where my grandparents are staying. And my grandparents from my father's side, they're saying in a, uh-in Spanish, we would call it like, what we refer a stay, we would call in Spanish un departamento en Usulután, basically, that's what it's called. So basically, that's where my grandma is now. So yeah, and then we have some aunts and uncles from my, from my parents, and, uh, we visit them, so like, we would go there um. When we go there, um, we visit them sometimes. But yes, I do have family and friends still there.

 

Ashani Jeffries 07:08

How often do you go visit?

 

Emily Portillo 07:11

It depends, honestly, like, um, last time, early 2023. I went there because, um, we had to wait for two weeks, the first week was in Usulután. And it was to see my grandfather, uh, who's now passed away and like, uh, just taking care of him, taking care of my grandma. And my uncles were there as well, my uncle and Aunts from my father's side. Uh, so yeah, uh, and then went to visit my grandparents as well. Um, but yeah, like, we went there so far. 2021 going to 22 because it was New Year's Eve, the first one after long time, and the second one was early 2023. So that's uh, the periods that we've been, we are not sure if it's like, a yearly thing, because it's like when we can, or if it's like a special circumstance we go. Because- 2021 to 2022 was my 50th-and my grandparents 50th anniversary of being together marriage.

 

Ashani Jeffries 08:16

Oh wow. 

 

Emily Portillo 08:17

Yeah, crazy. And then this one-from 2022-2023 was basically, um, seeing my grandpa and stuff, and seeing-and we knew he was going to pass away. So like it was like, oh, just seeing like the last moments, you know, so that was it. So now, I don't know what circumstance ill-fate will tell, you know, well, we're all visit you know, and stuff. So yeah, I'm not sure when else you know, because it's not yearly.

 

Ashani Jeffries 08:51

Right. Has it like has El Salvador and even Fairfax as well, so, you know, you've lived in some parts of Virginia. Has that changed? Since when you first encountered these locations? Or….

 

Emily Portillo 09:01

Like my thoughts towards them? Or like...

 

Ashani Jeffries 09:05

Over time, and also your thoughts! Yeah, both.

 

Emily Portillo 09:08

So I guess like, Fairfax. The reason I say Fairfax is because I, I really don't remember. Um, like that much is mostly when I was a little kid. Like, maybe not even unitl two that I was there. And then I moved to Manassas. That's where, um, my sister was born. And stuff. My younger sister, and we just lived there for the time being, um.. Yeah, like back in the Manassas. It was., um....also, I don't remember how much unfortunately, but Manassas was just like, you know, I guess where it started. That's where my childhood memories from the US are there and stuff, and friends. So, it's a very fun place, um. Then, um, once in a while, my family, my uncle Kevin for my mother’s side, they lived in Gainesville. So, we once in a while visited, and then till-when I moved to El Salvador, um. It was at first for a couple of months, to get settled. Um, we stayed in another departmento state, San Miguel. And that was, um, where my mom's family was,  and stuff. So, we lived for, for a bit of time there, I think just to get my mom settled. And then we went to, we moved departamento San Salvador where now my grandparents live, into my mom's, like, old, like, um, house, where she used to study University. And, um, yeah, we just, we were processing moving there. We were, mostly were living with her friends for like, just a little bit. And then once we were settled, it was-for the time being, it was just my mom. And me and my sister My dad had um-hadn't moved, hadn't shown up in El Salvador yet. For some reason, I do not know, not gonna lie. Um, but then a couple months later, he showed up. So, there for the time-for like, five years, that's where like our house was. And we visited grandparents once at a time. And that's also still the place I like, when we visit, we go back there. So yeah. And then, once I moved back here, it was Gainesville. In Gainesville- still my house like when I visit, I go to Gaines- my house is in Gainesville, and stuff. And like, yeah, my whole family at that point is there, like have my uncle's, except one uncle, he lives in, um, another place. A bit far. Uh, but like, yeah, that's like, where I go lives, that's where like, most most of my family lives. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 11:59

If you don't mind me asking, you know, what issues the schools were experiencing?

 

Emily Portillo 12:04

Um, yeah, so basically, okay, Ellis Elementary, I don't remember having any issues. There. Salvadorian schools, Colegio Americano. Um, from second to fourth grade, basically, what happened was, once my second-grade term was over, there was uh, um, embezzlement-the principal, I think, embezzled some funds and stuff, and that's where I got, since we have a new principal. And then, um, there were some issues like as to like, how, like, they conducted like the school, and then I think, I don't know, the principal just quit or something happened, but they just left-and then for fourth grade, we had um, like, another principal and stuff and that's where, um, like, there's many changes and stuff like that. So yeah, uh, fifth grade, that- this is Colegio US, basically, um, I don't think there was any issues? Sixth grade? I don't think so. But then um, so I think while I was there, there wasn't any issues if I remember well, but basically, um, once I was moved here and stuff, I saw some news that, like, our school, the school got closed. It doesn't exist now because-or they just-you know, it doesn't exist, and they abruptly laid off the staff and stuff, not even the staff knew, the teachers didn't know, and just and- the money I think that was supposed to, uh, like if they wanted to build it or that was still, I guess in rotation there, um. The principal I think,took it away and stuff. So, by default they have to close down. Um, Battlefield High School, um, where I spent my high school with there were some issues not concerning the school, but it was more like around like-there was one time that like, um, there was a kid who got ran over, because there's like a big-big streets like to enter, and stuff so like, it's like, ya, gotta be careful I mean- crossing that you have to be careful but I don't know- think he was with the (unintelligble)   and they think they just uh, they get the kid got ran over, and so from then on, um, there's like a, remember the kids name, and stuff and just like now they putting more signs being like, oh, this is a school zone. Go 25! 

 

Ashani Jeffries 14:40

Right.

 

Emily Portillo 14:41

You know, now and yeah, that's I guess this school issues or, I guess, things that happened nearby. So yeah. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 14:51

I understand that. Kid getting ran over. Wow.    

 

Emily Portillo 14:55

Yeah, it was like just very crazy. I was like, even worse, like I was I had colorguard practice, and, and I was driving in-I was driving, I didn't see it, but I just parked up like, because the way I did it, because I didn't have parking pass. But across the street, there was a plaza. So, you could just park your car and just walk to the school. And so basically, I was walking and stuff, and I got there. And then, uh, I think I remember but I think, like, while we were getting ready, like the color guard people or team, someone's like, oh, yeah, like, something just happened. Like they ran over like a kid, I think. And we were like, oh, like, oh, God, and stuff. So like-well, we had to like, it's kind of crazy. They didn't close a school or anything. I guess so because we just- I think it was game, game day. And which is Friday. Um, and so it was like, okay, like, even though it's near next to the school zone, I guess like that doesn't count or something. But we still went on and just practiced and stuff. So yeah, like really. Like it didn't happen. Yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 16:08

Didn't try to handle it....

 

Emily Portillo 16:09

Yeah, like, I'm now looking back. I'm just like, wow, they just really didn't cancel any like, activities or stuff? To like-because the police is there and stuff? Yeah. Interesting. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 16:22

Kind of eerie vibes.

 

Emily Portillo 16:24

Yeah. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 16:25

So, what's been your experience with the Latino community in both El Salvador and Virginia so far, inside and outside?

 

Emily Portillo 16:32

Um, Basically, and in El Salvador-well, everybody there is like, El Salvadoran and stuff. Uh, yeah, my family is like, um, yeah, like, I think it was just, like, I always keep telling my parents like, um, it's different the way I guess you interact, because I feel like in El Salvador, there's more like, I guess a community of vibe. You know, like, small talk is like, um, is great. Like, it's fun and stuff, small talk. Like it's just ordinary, it's like, oh, how's your family and stuff like that? Because somehow, somewhere, people know each other, and stuff. I guess that's my experience that like, there's just like, uh, my grandparents, like, Oh, you're like, niece and stuff. I'm like, oh, wow, how'd you know? It's like, oh, yeah, she comes here. I'm just like, okay. Um, and stuff. And I guess there's like-you can relate more, and stuff. And I think it's just like that barrier. There's no barrier, I guess. And you can just like, completely, like, talk to somebody. Um, or just like, it's very kind of relaxed, in my opinion. And stuff since, especially in schools, because the way at least, literally all what common Salvadorian schools, at least because the schools, all of them are private, because they're bilingual, and they're bilingual. Um, basically, um, you just had one class and like, you had your classmates there. And, uh, the teacher would just come in and out. So, you would have a home teacher, but like, basically, the teacher would go to one class, and the other teacher would go to another one, and stuff. So that's how it works. So literally, you had the same classmates. So, it was kind of like, oh, like, it was more like a bit of a family vibe. And you more know-you knew each other more, you know what, most sometimes what they hated, you know, sometimes what they liked and stuff. So, it's more like, I guess as kids that's like, more fun, I guess. Um, here in the US, basically, um, I think there's just a different-or like a variety of Latinos, especially because now there's like Mexicans, Central Americans, and there's, um, South Americans and stuff. And so, it just feels a bit more distant. And like sometimes for me when I'm talking to like a Latino person, like, I'm not sure if they know the certain experience or like, they know this, like certain feeling, you know, because everybody's raised different, everybody's different background, and stuff, and maybe they're tied to the religion, maybe they're not. Because a lot of Latino people tend to be religious, and stuff. So, it's like, now I feel like there's sort of a barrier, I guess, and if you talk to me more, it kind of goes away. But I feel like it's like for me when I've like talked to especially like El Salvadorans, it's like, I don't know if they know this, because sometimes they're like, oh, like my parents-parents are El Salvador, but I never lived there. And stuff, or I did not interact that much with the culture and stuff. And so, there's that thing. So, it's like, there's that disconnect, and stuff. And also, just like I guess, uh, Latino people sometimes like, to go against each other, like, I feel like that's like every like community but like-

 

Ashani Jeffries 20:06

Diaspora wars. 

 

Emily Portillo 20:07

Yeah-diaspora wars!  But like, especially from my experience, sometimes there’s a couple of Latinos that, like, they look down on people who do not know Spanish or to not integrate with the culture and stuff. Or people who do not know Spanish and stuff. Like they think oh, like, you're this and that, and stuff. And like, not gonna lie, a bit racist. Um, and just like yeah, so there's this like these. And then just like, oh, like, kind of like- because we're even not liking their own, like, ethnicity is just like, okay, that's like, okay, calm down everybody like y'all brothers and sisters. So, yeah, it's just like, you feel like, it's a bit like, more welcoming, at the same time? I think that's like one of the, one of the things that are common, like, whenever I interact with Latinos with like, El Salvador, and the US is that, um, they're welcoming and stuff. Like, for example, in Christians Pizza, like near here, like, the workers there are mostly um, uh- I'm assuming their Latin American, their Spanish speaking. So sometimes I'm just like speaking Spanish, and sometimes they ask me, “Oh, like, where are you from?" and stuff. It's like, very casual. And like, in the thing is, like, if I think of it, like, let's just say if, like, um, in English, like, I guess if they were just like purely, um, English speakers, it was like, it would be like kind of different. It'd be like, you'd like white people don't ask each other, "Oh, where you're from", unless they get to know each other more. And stuff. But for us, it's like, "oh, where are you from?" And stuff or like, blah, blah, and stuff-oh, I have family members there! For example, it's like this whole conversation from the get-go. And stuff. So yeah, there you go.

 

Ashani Jeffries 22:03

You mentioned that a lot of Latinos grew up religious. Did you grow up religious?

 

Emily Portillo 22:08

Oh, yeah. I'm basically I'm, this is probably like an old statistic. But like, there's, like 90% of all Salvadorians it could have decreased…are-are Roman Catholic.

 

Ashani Jeffries 22:21

Oh!

 

Emily Portillo 22:22

So, there's that, uh, yeah, my parents are both Catholic. Uh, my mom kind of, uh, converted my dad a bit into Catholicism-Catholicism, because my parents-my dad, on my dad's side, my grandma is Catholic, and my grandfather was Adventist. So basically, it was just like, sometimes they went to Adventist church, and stuff. But my dad was kind of distant with the faith, I guess. And my mom like, her, like, my grandparents are Catholic um, stuff, they know-so most of their circle is Catholic, and stuff, or the partner of the church. And so yeah, because of that, both my, um, sister and I were raised Catholic. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 23:11

Are you still religious? 

 

Emily Portillo 23:14

Um, honestly, yes, I am. I feel like, as much as like, sometimes, like, I'm going like going through it and stuff.... or sometimes, it kind of changed-like, the way I see my faith compared to my parents, because it's different. Um, the more I'm growing up. It's like something that like, that's part of me now. Like, I feel like I can be distant with it. But there's still some mannerisms. I have that are Catholic and stuff, like, prayers, and like, right before I eat, for example. It's like, some are like-even-see, doing the cross. That's like, still with me. And I just feel like if I don't do that, like, I feel like I'm commiting something wrong. Even though, it's not really, I guess? But yeah, like, but I feel like at the end of the day, I'd still describe myself as Catholic. Okay. I'm thinking questioning, I guess. So, yeah. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 24:14

Do you have any particular resources that have helped you in your life? 

 

Emily Portillo 24:19

Like um, organizations, or just like-

 

Ashani Jeffries 24:23

Yeah, organizations or in a broad sense as well.

 

Emily Portillo 24:27

Um, well, I guess mostly my family, I guess I like, is that like-I gu-is that fine as like is a resource?

 

Ashani Jeffries 24:34

Yeah, family, that's community support! That counts. 

 

Emily Portillo 24:38

Okay, yeah, because I feel like as somebody who's like, raised sort of like- I have that much friends and stuff, and there's some things going on. It's mostly like, I've always kept my family because they know me. They've seen me and stuff. And still to this day, I count on them. I'm dependent on them as I'm studying here, as well-and also right now my friends, and stuff as a resource. I feel like would- in a literal sense, also the VCU pantry. Um, sometimes, like, if I need food, I go there and stuff, because I have a limited budget here. Um, what else...um, I guess also like.... hm. Like there was- when I was in high school, I went to this, um, group that's called GHG, girls’ small group. And basically, it's just girls. What's it called? Yes. Meeting and stuff, talking. So, my sister's part of it now. But like the cut offs, like, once you graduate like high school, like, you can't go anymore. So it's like, oh, um,so there was that resource. But yeah, those are like, I guess the resources that come to mind.

 

Ashani Jeffries 25:54

Okay, What would you say is one of the- Have I asked this? What is one of the biggest obstacles you think you've encountered in your life?

 

Emily Portillo 26:01

Um, I guess the biggest obstacle is, I guess, my mind and stuff because I'm somebody who struggles with consistency, and commitment, and stuff. Like commitment to school, commitment to like, I guess getting up, but my commitment to goals. So sometimes, like, in like the self-discipline, sometimes I break it easily, and stuff. So, I guess that'd be like a big obstacle. Like, I don't know if it's just like something that I'm going through, or is it like, something I suffer, but like, right now, it's just like, literally, I tend to overthink it. And it's just like, very, like, it kind of, like, stops me from doing some things related to accomplishing my goals. So.

 

Ashani Jeffries 26:53

It's kind of like, paralyzed by indecision?

 

Emily Portillo 26:56

Yeah, I guess.

 

Ashani Jeffries 26:58

Okay. I've definitely felt that before. It's-yeah, really hard to just get a a trajectory going. Can you-do you have do you have a job right now?

 

Emily Portillo 27:10

Uh no, I'm currently unemployed. But I'm still-I'm looking for a job. Um, speaking of that, I have an interview, uh, this Friday,

 

Ashani Jeffries 27:19

Oh!

 

Emily Portillo 27:20

So I hope I do well. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 27:21

Oh, where?

 

Emily Portillo 27:22

I have a, uh Buttermilk and Honey. It's like a fried chicken sandwich-

 

Ashani Jeffries 27:26

Oh, I’ve tried that. 

 

Emily Portillo 27:28

So I haven't tried their food, honestly.

 

Ashani Jeffries 27:29

It's pretty good.

 

Emily Portillo 27:31

Ah-oh, I was checking the menu. And I was like, ah, that looks good. The only thing I- (chuckles) I'm not gonna get the job. Because most of my experience is just like, customer service, being a cashier. So-so you see it. So, I don't know if like, they're looking for an experienced person or like, uh, or somebody that they're willing to train. Because if they're willing to try that I'm fine with it. But I so far, when I've tried to apply to restaurants, there was always like, oh, they're looking for experienced people and stuff. So that worries me a bit. But to be fair, they checked my, like, my LinkedIn and stuff and stuff. So, I'm like, okay, like, if you looked at it, like-

 

Ashani Jeffries 28:11

All your experience.

 

Emily Portillo 28:12

Yeah, my-all my experience there. So, it's just like, okay, well, you're kind of going like, you know what you're going for? Let me just say that. So yeah, hopefully I get the job and stuff, please.

 

Ashani Jeffries 28:23

I'm wishing you luck. 

 

Emily Portillo 28:25

Ah, thank you.

 

Ashani Jeffries 28:27

What jobs have you had previously? You said you worked in retail? 

 

Emily Portillo 28:30

Oh yes, I did work in retail. My last job was Old Navy, and stuff. I worked there from April to August 2022. I left because I had to go here, and stuff. And then, previous to that, I had a summer internship, uh, and State Farm and the local agency where I lived. So, there's that and, I guess like, job employment. That's like my employment history.

 

Ashani Jeffries 28:58

Which one was your favorite? 

 

Emily Portillo 29:00

My favorite one, I think was Old Navy. Because Old Navy actually gave me experience of what to do, and stuff. It made me realize what were my flaws, what were the stuff I was good at, or the stuff I needed to work on, and stuff. And maybe, where also it was just like the type of people who work there, especially managers, and stuff, like the different types of managers because we had a couple. Um, it was, um, yeah, it's like my, I guess I would say my favorite, because now I was like, okay, these are these type of people, I guess in a retail environment. So now I know what to look for and stuff.

 

Ashani Jeffries 29:40

Okay. Definitely, definitely get that more hands on experience. 

 

Emily Portillo 29:46

Yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 29:47

All right, these questions are what I like to call "The Blitz", but it's the COVID-19 pandemic. 

 

Emily Portillo  29:52

Ah!

 

Ashani Jeffries  29:53

Where were you when it first started?

 

Emily Portillo 29:55

Yeah, um, I was in, I was still at my house. I was still in Gainesville, and I was, um, already then-if we're talking semester wise, in the second semester, um of......some sophomore year, 10th grade. And that's where we get the, um first when The COVID was like think, like the news was happening. It was just like, oh, we're not going through this week, and stuff. But we're going Friday. And no, no, first was Friday was optional. And suddenly, you were excused if you didn't go, but like, my parents were like, "no, you have to go, like, it’s still school."  So, I was like, ah, damn, let me go, I guess. And then, there wasn't that much people from what I remember, though. Well, I don't remember that much. Then it was like, oh, it's closed for the week. So, we were like, okay, like, oh, like, it was kind of crazy for that. Because usually the closing experiences is like, is when it's like snowing so much for me. So, for me it for a week. I was like, oh, like, oh, it's getting serious now. And then, um, they said, oh, yeah, it's- the rest of school year, it's gonna be closed, so basically. And I was like, oh, like, that's why I realize how serious COVID was. Because I was like, Oh, my God, like, now it's like, now it's real. And then something now that we, as a family, as a community, have to be careful of, and stuff. So yeah, that's where I was.

 

Ashani Jeffries 31:27

Did that impact your employment at all?

 

Emily Portillo 31:30

When I was a sophomore I wasn't working. So basically, I definitely hadn't worked anything at all. I think it wasn't, it wasn't 2020, obviously. So, I hadn't worked in anything. So, like working wise, I didn't have to deal with anything with that.

 

Ashani Jeffries 31:44

Very nice (?).

 

Emily Portillo 31:45

No, yeah.

Ashani Jeffries 31:46

So, what was that like? Did you just have to stay with your family in this insulated environment, or?

 

Emily Portillo 31:52

Yeah, I had to stay with my parents and stuff. Throughout the whole pandemic, my dad still worked. He worked in H-HVAC, like, air conditioning machines and stuff like that, installing during the service. So, for him, it was just less work. But still, like, there's still like, um, I guess people leave, they're like, having issues and stuff. So, he kept working, my mom, um. I don't remember if she was working at the time. But she, um, got into like, she got a virtual uh, online position, as a receptionist for an institution, and like, mainland and stuff. And so, she worked from home, like during the whole pandemic, and stuff. And yeah, and then, um, me and my sister, mostly, it was just like, like, they've still like if we had some assignments and stuff, like, uh, what's it called? We, uh we had to do them or just, did not. Uh, sometimes now like the work ethic a- project is where we supposed to do. Now, they were like, optional. So, it was like, Okay, if you want to turn it in. I didn't turn in anything. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 33:07

Mmhm.

 

Emily Portillo 33:08

In like, it was just like, what do we do now? And then, like, couple of months, in my mind was like, oh, yo, like, since there was really at that point, it wasn't really that sure, like, how junior year at least for me, was going to look like. So basically, it was like, oh, let me um, sign up y'all to like um, to like, to like, when the homeschooling like Catholic course thing. And then another one that's just like, woke up- my like for classes, you know, that you can take like, optionally, I guess. So, you can learn something. And that just lasted like a week, I think. And stuff. And like, it was just like, so. Like, nobody wanted to do anything. And stuff. I don't remember that much. Because like, sometimes I've locked those memories out because sometimes I was just really, really bad-because there was a really felt like sometimes, like, on one hand, I was happy because like, I liked staying in. I still do sometimes. So, there was that. But then there was a lot of times I was like, oh, like we can't go anywhere and stuff. And then yeah, literally 2020 was like that, but December kind of took a hit because that's where everybody got COVID, like, my mom got like, hit the worst. Like she had to self-isolate in her room and stuff. Um, and my grandma was there she was also sick. Um and then it was literally- and my sister and I, we were slightly conge-we could just we couldn't feel food. That was it literally. And my dad was okay. Even though like my dad was okay. Throughout it all. So yeah, and then, um. Yeah, 2020 was I'd say kind of relaxed. We went to Ocean City, and stuff like that, um. Because I'm gonna be honest, like my parents, like, I think they were deprived of a vacation. So, they were like, You know what, let's just go. And I was like, isn't there a pandemic still? Like, I was like, okay, well, I guess we're going and stuff. So yeah, I guess that's how I would describe my like, what I did during pandemic.

 

Ashani Jeffries 35:30

This is-forgive me if this is like a broad question, but, how do you think Latinos are specifically impacted by the pandemic?

 

Emily Portillo 35:37

Well, basically, um, I feel like for the people who could afford it and stuff, like, they could like, uh, I felt like they were like, they feel like they still, like impacted a lot. Like I feel like they suffered and stuff, especially here in like, their wages, and stuff. Because sometimes, like, there's a lot of like, latina, women who will like, work in like, retail and stuff, and customer service. And it's just for debt, like, and sometimes there's customer service, like jobs were closed. And like, sometimes it's like, fast food places, for example. Like, it must have been like, I don't know, because I feel like essential workers, like, during that time, I think it was they still had to work. And then they were also required to protect themselves and stuff. And that was like, "Oh, but what about the kids?" you know, and stuff. So I feel like, it was definitely like, it took a hit, and stuff, like, for my family, like, and like my uncles, we were grateful that like, at least they uh, they,-my also my uncle works in HVAC, too. So, it's like, for him- like they were good and stuff. Also, my other uncles, but like I feel like others, like, it definitely took a hit. And like it led to like, um, sometimes, like, um, just be like, "hey, ask him for help," you know, and stuff. Like, for example, my mom when she's when everybody else found out she was sick, some of her um, like, she's a part of like a church group. So, her church group members, um, they um, gave her some food basically, they like stopped by food, for example. And stuff. I'm sorry if this is like not a good answer, because-

 

Ashani Jeffries 37:29

Oh, no!

 

Emily Portillo 37:30

I dunno I, uh-it sounds a bit selfish, but I was really mostly concerned with my family, and stuff. And so like, uh, yeah, by feel like, Latinos, like when also we couldn't go to church. So, for the longest time, we couldn't and then once we opened, there was still a few people and stuff. But I've what I found was wallets and people that, you know, mask themselves, it was very rare to see somebody like, not masked and stuff. When compared to like, sometimes when we had to go to like, u, English services, it was like you would see there is not that much people I would say 90% not that masked. So, I feel like there was more solidarity, like between us that, like we knew like the gravities. It's like, if somebody got sick, then like something else could happen. You know, like also like for band camp. Oh, but that's like-that's like something I guess not really not Latino- mostly related. But yeah. So yeah, yeah that's it.

 

Ashani Jeffries 38:32

Did many people you know end up getting vaccinated?

 

Emily Portillo 38:35

Um, yes. Basically, all my family's vaccinated. Um..yeah, all my family was. So yeah, I didn't have any like person did not vax, like, at least in my close circle. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 38:54

How do you think your gender has impacted your experience, as a Latina?

 

Emily Portillo 38:59

Um, basically, like,  uh, something I think about...um...basically, I feel like Latino people, at least my parents, I think I'm gonna say my parents, because I don't want to generalize. But I feel like, um, my parents had one way to see like gender, and it was just very black and white. Let me say;it still is, it's like some Latino parents, like from like, well, you talk to my Latina friends, or like, I just talked, or I interact with them. But mostly, they say they're like, oh, yeah, like, one thing there's going to be comments, like they're homophobic, and stuff, and like, or they just-very anti transgender, and stuff. So, there's like that belief, and then mostly comes in with the-I don't want to generalize this but like, I feel like a lot with Latino people, especially adults are stubborn, and stuff. It's like a-take a mountain, a hill to convince them, and stuff. Um, and if they don't want to, they just don't want to. And there's nothing you can do about it. But in terms of gender, um, like, you know, I feel like I'm like, I personally say that, like, I think it's nice and like, good to just look at your gender, how you view yourself, you know, because like, after all, it's your life and stuff. And, um.... and yeah, like, I would say that, like, I'm very open, like, uh, to gender and stuff. That's, sounded like- *chuckles*, I don't know how to say, but actually, like, basically, like, gender is like, a social construct. I feel like, sometimes like, I just like, with gender, sometimes there's like roles and stuff, or just breaking the rules, too. And like, I feel like a lot of like, my process in the Latino community comes like, from like, our parents generation. And so, and you can see it sometimes passed down. Um, Latinos in the US, I would say that sometimes, like, um, I feel like we're not as mindful, I guess. Like, I feel like, it's just like, I think it's like, it's not really.... so, there's some parts that are not open minded, I guess. And, but they know it themselves. So sometimes they will not say it, they won't indicate it. Unless, like, um, you're in like, your own circle, like in like the house, for example. So yeah, I think the view of gender is like, in Latin America, I would say is still like, conservative. Like, for example, I did not even know that. El Salvador, for example, they do pride parades, like they celebrate the month of-I don't know how to word this- pride. The thought is-oops, sorry, um, to the person's hearing this! Uh, but I remember looking it up and I was just like, "They do this in El Salvador?" And then, like, I see like, some interviews that are like, yeah, like, people who are like, dressed in like pride colors, like, sometimes they get-they refuse service, like from Uber, like, example, like somebody had the case that they were refused by their driver, and so they're just looked down. Or even sometimes violent, and stuff. So, I would say it's just very conservative. So, I would say is, like, especially transgender people, I assume, like gender expression is just very, like, it's very black and white, as I would say before, and it's just like, being like, gender, like, I guess gender fluid. In that case, I would just say, it's like, fit, like, the average Latina person, I guess is still conservative of those views. So that's what I would say, that's my views.

 

Ashani Jeffries 43:00

Do you ever feel like, uh-'m sorry? Were you gonna say something? 

 

Emily Portillo 43:03

Oh, no. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 43:05

You ever feel like there are any, like gendered expectations that are placed upon you? Um…

 

Emily Portillo 43:10

Yes. Basically, um... my mom still to this day, she sometimes um, like, oh, like, your girl, you have to dress in a feminine way, in a delicate way, and stuff. And I don't blame her for like, um, like, for background stuff. I don't blame her for, like thinking those. But yeah, it's like, for me, it's just like, a t shirt and jean are fine. And stuff. And, yeah, like basically just like, um, just being like, oh, like dress like this and stuff. But it's like, at this point, like, uh, my mom knows my style so-but sometimes, for like, for others, like, she holds that view and stuff. And it's just like, I feel like, it could come off as harming. You know, it my dad, well, my dad just doesn't care. But he sometimes like, is like, all you have to dress presentable. And so, and that's something I do agree, like, regarding like, it doesn't have to do like, I guess like- the type of clothes, it's just like, oh, but just dress nice. Like, you know, because like, at the end of the day, I feel like you deserve to dress nice, you know, like, it's a type of self like, care for yourself. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 44:26

Right.

 

Emily Portillo 44:27

And stuff. So that's my, like, interpretation of it, and stuff. But yeah, like, I guess gender as well. It's like, at the same time, like that kind of like uh, also, like kind of into my like, I guess internalized homophobia, I guess in like, that was in El Salvador and stuff. And then when I got here, it was like oh, like, it's like really not that bad as like as they say. And then it's like, then you see, like, Latino people also being like, oh, it's like, "Oh, like, why is my like, son gay?”. Or for example, "Because like, he came to the US." and it's like, no, not really. and stuff, it's just your son growing, like, for example, something like that. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 45:19

Is there, like, a place you feel like you really belong since you've moved to so many different places?

 

Emily Portillo 45:25

Um, the thing is, is that, like, I feel like the places where I feel I belong, I feel like there's like, uh, like, to a certain extent, like, there's a catch to it. You know, like, I could say, I want to say that my house, back in Gainesville, is somewhere I belong. Where-somewhere I can relax, and stuff, 'cause there's my food, there's my family, there's my sister, there's my dog, and stuff, but like, it's like, I still have to limit myself. And just like, I got to restrict myself, I guess. I had to put like, I guess a better facade, or if I weren't also, like, I can't say certain things because I know, that's-somebody who's gonna get mad, you know, or like, stuff, like, and some of them I'm guilty as well, you know. And, like, so that's why, like, I kind of hesitate to say where I belong. But yeah, I think I don't know, where I belong is mostly, I don't know. I think I don't see as like a physical space, but I feel like, if anything, it's myself. Because I know myself, well. I'm the person that like, um, at least here in Richmond, like, I can be like, I can like, go to places by worrying another person, and stuff. And like, compared to if I have my parents I have to be-I have to think, okay, where would they want to go, for example, or stuff like that. Um, then accommodate. And here it's like, in a selfish way, I kind of don't have to accomodate to a certain person. I can just be as..... what I am basically. So, think at the end of the day, it's just I belong to myself. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 47:08

You felt like, a sense of liberation and individuality coming to VCU?

 

Emily Portillo 47:14

Um, yeah, I think. I think it's well, like, just like yeah, I think VCU also kind of also helped a bit. I feel like, prior to like, when I was a senior, I think in high school, I was like, already felt like, Okay, this is who I am and stuff. I just think like, because in colorguard, some like some, I think half of like, the colorguard, we like to joke that it's like LGBTQ. So like, half the color was like fucking gay, and stuff, um. So, it's like, ah, I was like, like it in a way, I think that's like, I guess where it belonged temporarily as well. Like, just like being there and stuff. And it was like fine being there. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 48:03

Have you ever felt like in any certain instances, you've omitted parts of your identity or like, cultural stuff to fit in with a certain group? 

 

Emily Portillo 48:11

Um, like, sometimes, like, when I was in colorguard, like I was the only I think, Spanish speaking person there. Yeah. So, I was trying to remember, but yeah, uh, so sometimes I just like, say something in Spanish, to like, make other people laugh, and stuff. Or sometimes I'd say like, if I was like, with Latinos, because I've-I've received, like some people before, say, like, from first glance they don't think I'm like Latina, which is like, I understand it now. Because I am mostly like, um,I have a white like, I'm white. So, it's like, I don't have that much like, I guess, ethnic, like, I guess, uh, features, I would say so. So that's why people assume like, I'm just like, I guess, Caucasian, white, and stuff. And so like, they-until I tell them no, I like or speak Spanish to like my parents or stuff. Like they're like, oh, wait, you're Latina. and stuff. I'm like, Yeah, you know, and stuff is just like, because just the way I describe myself is like, I like I look white, basically, like, I know, like how to say, but basically when they see my skin and stuff, they're just like, "oh, that's a white girl," you know? And stuff-and Latinas how I represent myself and how I like to describe myself. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 49:39

So you feel like you've been perceived as white? By like,

 

Emily Portillo 49:44

Yeah, like for people like especially like, other, even people of color, like sometimes they're like, oh, like he's so you're not like, I guess I don't know how to describe it, like that completely "white white," 

 

Ashani Jeffries 49:56

Right…

 

Emily Portillo 49:57

You know, like, just like, Oh, you're also Latina. You know, I'm like, yeah. Uh, and stuff. So yeah, like, I feel like, like sometimes I'm just like, oh shit. Like, I just remember like, I was, like Latina ,and stuff or have like features, I guess, but then it's like, I mean, at the end like, why, like, are you wishing so much? You know, like that's how you-like I kind of go a bit strict I'm like, but that's you Emily, like, you can't like, change your appearance, you can't afford plastic surgery, that's what you want, you know? Like, it's like you have to like, love yourself and stuff. So yeah. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 50:36

How do you feel about like perceptions? Because I feel like the US is wearing like, with race and some very specific vs in Latin America, which I feel like it's a little different.

 

Emily Portillo 50:46

So funny thing, like, in El Salvador a I would say is like and also some family members, they will describe me more as "chele" so basically cheles like, white. Basically, that's how we would see it. And so, like, because in Latin America in El Salvador, you're gonna see like, the whitest people, the blackest people, uh, the brownest people, for example. So, vit's like, my dad, like for example, he's, uh, he's like, white and stuff. He's like, chele, like, at first, like, the first thing you see you think of like, white-white man, and stuff, for example. So basically, like my family members, and like, the way I feel like race is more countered. Is like, basically, um, it's just like, yeah, your chele and stuff. But it's like, you like you're still part of like community and stuff. Like there's nothing taken away, like they acknowledge it, and stuff. But I will say like, sometimes there's like, either, like, um, chele or pale, or like slightly brown, um, people like in Latin America were colorist or like, racist towards like, especially like dark skinned, or what we like to call "Moreno", or dark skinned Latin Americans, Afro Latinos as well, and stuff. Like when we-even in the US like sometimes, like in discourse online, or in person- in real life. Like, it's like, when you think of Latino, a lot of Latinos do not like to think like, do not think of Afro Latinos, and stuff. And like, which is like, very upsetting and stuff. And I think it's like something we should like strive- because we need to be like, more inclusive. And they're also our brothers and sisters. That's-they're also part of the community. And it's like, why are we excluding like, our brothers and sisters? You know, it's just like very disrespectful. And it's hard because I, if I imagine myself being like, not included, and stuff I'd be like-I feel like, what the hell y'all? You know? So, it's, there's that and stuff. And it's just like, very, like, it's, you have to dewire that, I guess. And I'm still like, I feel like, I'm still - like a lot of American people still need to be dewired. I guess, like some like mindset or like, like beliefs, I guess. So. Yeah. But like, my opinion is that, at least from my experience, race, like, in El Salvador, I feel like, when I had conversations, with like Spanish people, it's like, El Salvadorans as well. Like, you don't talk about it as much, you know, and stuff. I just find that really interesting. But to be fair, like, when I like consecutively lived there, like it was until sixth grade. So, it wasn't like, I guess there wasn't the time, if there is like such a thing, that like, to talk about it. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 53:48

How do you feel, um, the way that Latinos are talked about by politicians and the general public? Especially with things like issues of immigration coming up, and anyone who's ethnic just kind of, put in there as a discussion topic? So how does it affect you?

 

Emily Portillo 54:05

The thing is, is that like, the absence of law, like, I could feel it like towards, like, um, Iike given it my family and stuff, because it's like, oh, if like this law would pass, we'd have such- we'd have it  easier for example. Uh, but when I think like, uh, I guess Latino people in like politics or in the US government:I just think at this point, I feel like they're just used to like, unfortunately have like, oh, there's a diversity hire! Or, oh, we're inclusive! Like, hey, we have this Latino person! Oh, hey, hey, hey, we also from from this Asian person!  Hey, hey, hey!  Like, you know, and at this point, it's just like, for me, I even sometimes feel trapped, I'm just like, the first time like, if I look like a Latino person, in government, I'm just like, oh, they're just using you, you know? And it's just like, but no, but then I'm like, no, they probably went to like-they most likely had to support their communities and stuff. Because after all, that's kind of how you get into that, for example, and stuff. Maybe just on skill and stuff, like, why are you looking so much on like, color, appearance, or race and stuff? Like, why do I have to give this a second thought compared to like a white person? I just accept it. You know, so there's that. And like, in sometimes, in sometimes well, it's sometimes your Latino celebrities and stuff, who are born, like, are in Mexico and stuff. They're invited by the US just to be like, "Oh, like, nice to meet you, oh, we interact with other people besides the US," you know, I guess like PR, I guess, with you, what they say. So, and also, like, for example, also, I know Kamala Harris, right now, she's in, like, um, in Puerto Rico, basically. And like, a lot of law offerings are not gonna like that, because it's like, it's still recognized, like, as a colony, you know, and stuff. And so, I feel like there's like, a descent towards, um, the US and like, politicians and stuff. Um, but yeah, like, um, I feel like, at the same time, though, at least in my circle, there's a lot of like, Latinos that, like, look at, like the news and stuff, or, like, have- like conversations like these, because I feel like they're so busy, like, either in their own circles, or just making a living, and stuff and seeing, like, attending to their families, and stuff that they can't, like, join in, in these conversations where they can't think about it. And it's just like, survival every day. So that's why like, sometimes I don't see that much Latino people talking about it, but then I understand it. You know, like right now, like, as someone who's unemployed, like, you know, is has the privilege to look in the news and stuff. Um, like, I can be like, oh, like, What the hell is this? I can react to it. And some people, they either either ignoracy it or just because they don't have time, they can't, and stuff. But yeah, like Latino people, I guess, like on a political standpoint. It's just like....and also, I feel like for the Latino people who are already there, I just think they don't have they don't represent the community. And stuff. Like I just feel like it's taken so long, like for migration, for example, and stuff. And it's just like, and we've seen some other things are just like, by, like, less than five seconds or less than a day is ended, that they pass this on. So, I'm just like, it's really unserious. I guess, how this, like, the US system operates.

 

Ashani Jeffries 57:52

​​When you talk about in the absence of law, you mean, there are not a lot of laws protecting Latino to like work and immigration and just helping them out?

 

Emily Portillo 58:00

Yeah, definitely. Like, I've had some, like, uh, I, like sort of witnessed it, um. But yeah, like, basically, it's just like, from what I've seen, like, it's just the worst of the worst conditions and stuff. Like, there's like, not even like, the system is just like so like, why I feel like there's so much waitlisting and stuff, like just waiting for, like, for your court date, for example, like a whole nother year and stuff. And like, you can just feel like there's not that much loss of like concerning immigration in and taking care of the people who maybe buy like, land and stuff. Like, they come here and stuff- and mostly, like, the US I feel like, they've made a statement that like they don't see them, like as people or like, as American citizens, regardless, they just see them as like, just like aliens, you know? And it's just like, very disrespectful. Even they used the term aliens, like in tech, my memory, my US-my US textbook, um.... they use like for people who're not here aliens and stuff. So, it's so dehumanizing. And I'm just so surprised, like since I guess, like in the news reported, or when I realized, like in 2010 and stuff, like, we're facing this migration issue. It was like....and now we're in 2024 and like still like, it's- the process has been so slow that it's like, what's going on? You know, so yeah, there definitely should be more laws about it. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 59:46

Have either of your parents been to college? 

 

Emily Portillo 59:49

Oh, yes. Both of them have been to college. They have not graduate, both of them. They studied in El Salvador colleges. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 59:59

How do you think your experience might differ from theirs, or ? 

 

Emily Portillo 1:00:03

Well basically, um, I guess like, I would say both my mom, it was more, it still is, but she's more extroverted. Like, she's still like, she had a group of friends in college and stuff, uh. She had to transfer, I'm sure into one university, she went to another. So, she transferred and stuff. And I think it was mostly just like, you go, you show up to campus, you take the classes, you leave and stuff. And that's it. Compared to here. It's like, oh, like, you have, like, if you decide to live nearby, you have to get an apartment. There's also many, especially in Richmond, like, there's many activities to go to many places to eat VCU hostess, like a lot of things, for example, clubs, events, etc. Many organizations to join, for example, so there is that, like, they offers so much and.... yeah, um. But from what I've heard from like, my parents, colleges, it's just like, oh, you just show up, study and leave. And like, I'm like, it's also fine. You know, like, after all, that's the main point, you know, I know another person who like, did that, like here in the US, in university that they literally just showed up, just take classes. And that's fine, too. Because some people have their priorities, they have um, different things to do. So, it's just like, you know, like, as long as like, you have received, like, Keishon education you want. It's like, fine. And so, it's up to you. And so, yeah, like, I feel like, with my parents, I think it's just more like, they had more friends than me. Like, I like I, I do have friends here. But it's like, it's a small circle, I would say small people, like, less than a finger, less than a hand, I mean, um, but I value them a lot, and stuff. So, I tried more thinking about quality, like over quantity. And then like, it would be even worse, to befriend, somebody who like do not say they are. So yeah, that's like my experience compared to them. 

 

Ashani Jeffries 1:02:12

And you also mentioned earlier that your mom, like, you had to take some classes or encouraged you to take it. Have you always had like, has she been a very big advocate for education in terms of...?

 

Emily Portillo 1:02:24

No, yeah, like she every like, since I was born and stuff, basically she, oh, wait, she drove us to the library, and stuff like for storytelling, for example, to check out books, for example, using the library for both of us, uh, for and then like, yeah, like, take your classes, etc, etc. Even when I was in college, or like, when I was senior year, she was like me, you better apply and stuff. Um, and she was also real with me, like, because I was considering prior to coming here, a cinema major and she was like, "yeah, we might not be able to, like, buy the equipment that you need" or stuff. Or like whatever. Like, if it's the budget is too big, we won't be able to help you there. So that that caused me to change the history. And still right now she's like, "Oh, like are going through your classes?" and stuff. "How are they? like, are they hard?" and stuff. And she's still like, very adamant. Like, when semester ends to check my grades. It's like, "Emily where's, your grades, Emily, where's your grades?" and stuff. And it's like, oh, wow, you really concerned about my grades, which is fair, because they're dependent and stuff so I feel like they at least deserve that, um, in my opinion. But yeah, like, a big-even like during the pandemic that make as I said earlier that like, she made me like, she wanted us to still get an education, like, and stuff and like a teacher teaching us and stuff. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 1:03:56

Truly above and beyond when it comes to advocating for your kids' education.

 

Emily Portillo 1:04:00

Oh yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 1:04:02

So, what would you like the public to know from your life story? What would you like people to just take away from this whole session?

 

Emily Portillo 1:04:09

Um, I guess is that like, Latin American people and Latinos, like, wherever they live in Latin America, or they like live in the US and they have parents or their culture is in like, like, within, like, their ethnicity or like, all I have to say is like I feel like there's a lot of people who view the community very differently. Like, I'm just one in like, the sea of many people who will think like, of different issues that should be solved, and maybe issues that I never heard before, or like something I haven't considered, and I should not, and there's like so many of us that like that, uh, like, I shouldn't, like, in a sense that like, I shouldn't be like the one I guess, like the representative, I guess, like I'm here to say I I'm not the representative of like, El Salvadorian American people. Uh, like there's many of us don't take my word for it, uh and stuff. And also, just like, yeah, there's a lot of people, especially being that, at least, like, be like with their parents being immigrants, or at least they know somebody, and just how common like that struggle is, and stuff. So, I guess what I wanted to take away is that, like, there's many like us who live different lives. And we're grateful to have some, like more privileges and others, like, they've had, like, at least they have like a community and stuff. And just like, yeah, like, just please don't represent- that I'm not the representative of El Salvadoran Americans, because a lot of people like to um, just like, be like, "oh, this person said this", this is- isn't anything that's like everybody's experience. And like, that's not true. Like, I'm just, I was very fortunate to um, go to like private schools, like, for example, in El Salvador and stuff, when public schools are more like, the common, um. The common go to like if someone's children getting education, for example. So, I've had a different experience. And yeah, like, I hope, anybody who's hearing this, um, they take away something from it, or like, it's just like, it was nice hearing it, or something like that. So yeah.

 

Ashani Jeffries 1:06:35

All right. Well, is there anything else you wanted to add that we may not have talked about?

 

Emily Portillo 1:06:42

Um, I guess like, in terms of like, I think I already touched like on LGBTQ issues, how I feel like, Latin American like Latin America, I feel like it's-we've gone this far. And I feel like they don't take it seriously, and stuff. And I think we need to take it more seriously, you know, has to be more conversation because after all, they're like, paying your impuestos, or your taxes, etc. So, it's really- they're just like any other average Latino American, so consent and opinions. But yeah, like, it's just like, we need to be like more as Latin American community to wake it up, especially in like Latin America, Central America, South America. So yeah, that's what I want to say.

 

Ashani Jeffries 01:07:33

Thank you so much for doing the interview with me. This was great. 

 

Emily Portillo 01:07:37

Oh, thank you. Hopefully, it was like, um, I guess informative, because I was like, I didn't know if I was  gonna bring a perspective or something.

 

Ashani Jeffries 01:07:47

This is a great perspective, and I really enjoyed it. 

 

Emily Portillo 01:07:52

Ah, thank you. 

Ashani Jeffries 01:07:53

No, thank you. All right.