Interview: Minah Mubasher

What was your life like in Guatemala?

My life was bad. Guatemala was dangerous. The gangs there killed my friend, Lucia. She lived next to me and was my best friend. She would always buy me gifts and was very nice. We would do our homework at my house.

Would you like to go back to Guatemala?

I cannot go back to Guatemala. I want to stay here with my father, mother, and my little sister. I also have many new friends here. Even if I wanted to go back, my mother does not have money for a plane.

How have you been adjusting to life here in Maryland?

When I came here, I was 12 years old. The people here were very nice to me. Living here is easy because there is less fear and it is safer here.

What do you miss most about Guatemala?

I miss my house in Guatemala. I also miss my sister, brother-in-law, niece, and my grandparents. My grandpa is very sick. He cannot walk and only has a couple more years to live. My mother sends him money to help pay for his medicine.

What do your friends in Guatemala think America is like?

My friends Elena thinks life here is fun. My other friend, Albaro wanted to come to America with me. His father is here and it is safer. All my friends think America is rich and that there are famous people everywhere.

Do you like life in America or Guatemala Better?

I like it here better. Everything here is better. The school is better and so are my friends. Even the food here is more tasty. There are many more options in America. I didn’t like the meat in Guatemala. The meat vendors did not wash it very well.

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