A Letter to my Son: Your Social Responsibility

To my first son, Jaxson R. Cubillo | Your Social Responsibility

In the 1930s, the United States had to take a tough stance. The Nazi momentum was incredibly overwhelming and no nation in the region had the artillery or funds to fight back. But there we were, faced with the decision to become allies or bystanders. The American people opposed a costly and bloody war, but President Roosevelt knew that preserving freedom and peace was essential. Today, the Nazi regime no longer exists because we chose to become an ally to Great Britain.

Today, humanity continues to struggle against other extremist ideas, policies, and wishes. And just as guilty are those who turn a blind eye as those who do and / or think horrible things.

Never forget that your father is an immigrant from Costa Rica. And although I could have tried to hide behind my passport, my second language, and my college degrees, it was always clear to me that our roots cannot be denied. Our identity is deeper than the surface. And who I am is part of you.

Currently, many families in Central America are leaving their homes on a daily basis to escape various conflicts. Millions travel to the United States, legally and illegally, in search of opportunity. At the same time, Hispanics living in the United States face discrimination and harassment from people who developed a misleading image of us. We are a people who struggle to find a true home and identity in the midst of the search for opportunity.

You are in an interesting position. You were born white and blond and could easily look away and still be the beneficiary of the privilege of people who look like you. I could easily reject the disadvantages faced by people who look like me. Because statistically, you will beat people of color for a job. A police officer is less likely to stop you for a search. You don't have to constantly be reminded that the people around you question your legal status, your criminal history, and your every move simply because you're of a darker tone. I am not predicting that your life will be easy. In fact, your life could be difficult and challenging. But what I'm saying is that your skin tone will never be the reason.

You have a decision to make, Jaxson. Will you be an ally or a bystander? The easy thing to do is isolate ourselves from the issues that do not affect us. The right thing to do is to defend the silenced and defend the marginalized.

A tree can withstand rain, winds, and storms if it has deep roots. Don't forget your roots regardless of the color of your leaves. Let your roots determine the paths you take in your life. You are the product of an unlikely bond between two people. You are the product of a bond between two humans who would not normally get involved with each other. Somehow, a child came from a different country and ended up meeting someone as different as your mother. It wasn't luck. You were born with a purpose.

I may no longer be here when you read and understand this letter. And that's why I wrote it. So you never forget who you are and why God put you here.

With love,
Your father, Juan Diego CUBILLO