The mural itself has become much more than a collective art project: it has taken on an identity of its own –a living entity, with a story to tell from all those who helped mold it into what it is and will be. It has been a difficult path to even get to this point and now flirting on the verge of creating what was once an idea into reality. At the beginning stage of the development the Collective Mural seemed simple enough, with the purpose of establishing the Latinx presence here at Oregon State University. That was very naive of us as a committee, we soon faced obstacles that slowed the process and the closer we got another obstacle appeared, but this never halted our progress.

So when I say the Mural had gained an identity of its own, it refused to die before its creators and from those who consistently opposed it. This can be said about our culture, our people, our spirits… that we never accept defeat and we strive together till the goal is accomplished, and we get what we deserve. To be part of this Mural has showed me the strong united presence of the OSU students and community, and the relentless effort to create this common goal.

The Mural has given me more than a project to work on, but has given me a way to connect myself to the OSU community. I have met great people along the way, who showed me what it is to be a leader, with the constant ambition to always learn more. The more I surround myself with these leaders the more I see myself taking on the same qualities. I am forever thankful to have the opportunity to be part of a legacy that will outlast the time I have here at the Oregon State and will be viewed by future generations, and act as a gathering spot for others as it has done for me.

guadalupe "Lupe" Garcia