By Natasha Baker | Development Volunteer
Hello supporters of MSMC!
Back in our April-June 2015 report, we introduced you to one of the indigenous youth that you support, Ruth. Ruth is a youth leader and member of the Anacé de Matões indigenous community. Back in 2015, she began college at the Federal University of Recôncavo Baiano for social sciences. That momentous step in her life was only made possible through the support that MSMC provided - financed by you!
So to thank you further and to help you see the impact of your dollars, today we have a reflection written by Ruth on what her experience in college has been like so far.
My experience at college has been very rewarding and I have grown so much in the little time I have been here – even though I miss my village, my family, and my people. But I know that this is just for now, because I’m seeking knowledge not only for myself but also for everyone who has helped me get here. I love my program (in social sciences) and I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. My classroom is very diverse; there are students from all over Brazil. Since I’m far away from home (the Federal University of Recôncavo Baiano is about a 16-17 hour drive from Fortaleza), I’ve been taken in by a quilombola family (quilombolas are Brazilians who live in quilombos: quilombolas are the descendants of Afro-Brazilian slaves who escaped slave plantations and formed their own communities). They have many of the same customs and habits that my family does, so I feel like they are my family, too.
The help that I am getting is invaluable; without it, I would not be able to fulfill my dream of going to college. This is really important for my family, too. Just a little while ago, my dad lost his job and wasn’t able to pay the bills. My education will put me in a better position to support my family. But without your support, I might have gone straight to work instead of having the opportunity to pursue a higher education first.
Thank you to all of the people who helped make my college experience possible. My family, my people, and I are so grateful and so happy for your generosity. Obrigada!
Mitakuye Oyasin
Îandé Memé Maranongara
Somos Todos Parentes
We are all related
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