My name is Alejandra Avalos. I am an artist and photographer from San Fernando, the oldest city in the San Fernando Valley. I was raised in a traditional, catholic, immigrant family with my parents and grandparents. Our culture taught me resilience, curiosity, passion, and determination. I grew up with the understanding that life for us is not given, but fought for. At a young age I began to question authority, and traditions that are associated both with being Mexican and American. I am an atheist, anti-capitalist, and anti-imperialist Chicana. Through the arts I have learned that this work is resistance, that my goal is to take space in an industry that often exploits people and artists like me. I aim to continue rejecting American nationalism and ethnocentrism through my self expression. To encourage others to fight for the life they know they deserve.