Latin American Voices of Central Georgia
The English, French, and Spanish oral histories document the lived experiences of migrants from Latin America and Francophone countries. These narratives highlight resilience, the challenges of migration, and the essential work of nonprofit organizations.
Students interviewed Spanish-speaking migrants about their journeys, challenges, and contributions to the community. These narrators represent diverse regions of Latin America and shared powerful stories of migration, adaptation, identity, and community as they settled in Middle Georgia.
01
Rudy Santana
Rudy Santana is a devoted husband, father, and cherished member of his community. Having dedicated his life to serving the Houston County Board of Education as a bus driver, he has built deep connections with those around him. Born in Mexico and raised in the United States, Rudy reflects on his experiences as an immigrant, sharing stories of his childhood, adulthood, and what it means to be Hispanic in the U.S. He discusses cultural traditions he grew up with, those he has passed down to his children, and some he no longer practices. Family remains at the heart of his life, as he often reminisces about his parents, wife, children, great-grandchildren, and others who have shaped his journey.
02
Angela Alcantar
Angela Alcantar is a dedicated mother, finance professional, and passionate community advocate who has lived in middle Georgia for decades. Originally from Mexico, Angela balances her career in mortgage and finance with active involvement in organizations such as the NAACP, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Federal Housing Administration. Through her work and advocacy, she strives to uplift others and create lasting change. Angela reflects deeply on her identity as a Hispanic woman in the United States, speaking about culture shock, responsibility, and the meaning of tradition in her life. Her story highlights the resilience it takes to navigate dual identities and the power of using one's voice to make a difference.
03
Veronica Ramirez Guerrero
Veronica Ramirez Guerrero is a devoted mother and resilient woman whose story reflects strength, sacrifice, and unwavering love for her family. Originally from Salinas de Hidalgo in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, Veronica immigrated to the United States in search of a better life and greater opportunities for her children. Throughout her journey—from crossing the border while pregnant to working tirelessly across several states—she has remained focused on providing for her family and building a better future. Veronica speaks candidly about the challenges of migration, the value of perseverance, and the importance of community. Her story is a powerful reminder of the courage and determination that define so many immigrant experiences.
04
Ana Lagos
Ana Lagos is a proud mother, grandmother, and former educator who spent 32 years teaching in her home country of Peru. Born into a large family near the Peruvian jungle, Ana speaks with warmth and gratitude about her upbringing, her career, and the values that shaped her—especially love, respect, and a deep pride in her heritage. Now living in the United States, Ana reflects on her journey as an immigrant, the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture, and the beauty of holding on to her Peruvian roots. Through stories of family, food, and faith, Ana offers a heartfelt glimpse into the life of a woman who continues to lead with kindness and resilience.
05
Yasmin Padineda
Yasmin Padineda, a higher education professional originally from Panama. Yasmin shared extensive stories of her experiences growing up in Panama, her immigration journey to the United States in 2011, and her thoughts on identity, family, and resilience. Hispanic in the U.S.—Yasmin emphasized the importance of humility and adaptation. She describes her own journey with honesty and grace.
06
Jose Sacramento Garcia
Jose Sacramento Garcia shares vivid and heartfelt memories of his childhood, family life, and early work experiences. He described a daily routine filled with responsibilities such as tending animals and doing homework before school, emphasizing how different his upbringing was compared to growing up in the United States. Mr. Garcia’s stories were rich in detail and emotion, providing a unique window into his assimilation journey and the cultural heritage he carries. His reflections became a powerful theme in our oral history, revealing resilience and a deep connection to his roots.
07
Dr. Jorge Fernando Palacios
Dr. Jorge Fernando Palacios, an associate professor at Mercer University originally from Valdivia, Chile, offered a compelling narrative shaped by migration, resilience, and cultural identity. Growing up during Chile’s dictatorship, he experienced both the harsh realities of political unrest and joyful moments rooted in family and tradition. A major theme of his story was “The Power of Curiosity,” which fueled his courage to learn English and adapt to life in the U.S. Dr. Palacios’s calm resilience and ability to find peace amid hardship left a profound impression on me and enriched our understanding of migration’s human side.
08
Carlos Gonzales
Carlos Gonzales, was born in Havana, Cuba and was only in Cuba for three years until moving to Costa Rica for a few years and then Venezuela for the rest of his childhood. Married his wife Miss Billy Gonzalez, and she lived with him in Venezuela for about 20 years before coming back to the USA.
Enrique Fuentes
09
Enrique Fuentes was born and raised in Mexico City, Mexico, before moving to a small town in Georgia, US, to be near his family in the United States. He holds a master’s degree, and he now works as a college soccer coach, DJ and marketing professional at a state college. He has ambitious goals for the future, even aspiring to become the Governor of Georgia. He proudly embraces his Mexican heritage and views it as a strength. Most importantly, Mr. Fuentes is a dedicated father who strives to be an inspiration for his children and the Mexican community.
10
Erika Rubí Rodriguez
Erika Rubí Rodriguez was born in a small town in Jalisco, México, where she grew up with her younger brother and their cousins. The town had no high school, and the middle school gradually shrank as many of Mrs. Rodriguez’s family members moved to the U.S. When she was 13, her family also moved (to California), where she attended high school and took classes for English as a second language. However, she began speaking English more when she began to work, due in part to bullying in her ESL classes. Although Erika Rodriguez wanted to go to university, her parents didn’t want her to leave home alone at age 18, so she took some courses at a local college before her marriage. She later went on to receive a business degree and then a Master of Business Administration. After marrying, she and her husband moved to Detroit for a year before moving to Georgia. She now lives in Fort Valley with her husband and two children and works as an Associate Registrar for Mercer University.
