Conference on Gender, Families,
and Latino Immigration in Oregon

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Beatríz Martínez

Welcome Center Springfield/ Centro de Bienvenida del Distrito Escolar de Springfield

I was born in Churintzio, Michoacan in Mexico. I am 34 years old, married and have three children. I am the eldest of five women born to my family. I immigrated to Salinas, California in 1979 at the age of six. My parents and grandparents were farm workers all over the Monterey Valley for over 35 years. I am extremely proud of their hard work and acknowledge the sacrifice they made leaving their home and family to provide a better life for my sisters and myself. My culture, language, religion, roots and family have always been a strong influence in my life. My determination to help people without questioning their culture, race or color came from the upbringing that my family gave me. I am a firm believer in just causes and equality for all always and without question.