As a Chicano girl growing up in the 1990s, there were very few celebrities and high-profile figures around to serve as roll models for me. TV shows and movies tended to make light of the differences between Mexicans and Americans rather than celebrating our common bond. I was conflicted and somewhat adrift until my mother bough me an American girl doll.
The doll in question, named , came with her own book and a rich back story. Even though she had grown up in the early 19th century, the details about her cultural traditions and personal struggles were readily identifiable. It was comforting to read that Josefina’s family took great pride in upholding their Spanish language skills and their ethnic heritage. I’ve kept the doll ever since, and I plan on passing it down to my own daughter someday.