The Rio Grande Valley is a unique place for its fusion of Mexican and American culture and traditions. Yet it is often regarded with contempt by outlets that promote its poverty, lack of education, and danger. “Through the telling of stories that are sometimes embarrassing or personally traumatic, I am working to reconcile the shame triggered by the circumstances and external barriers set by my perceived identity, ability, and class while intersected with the sexism, objectification, gender roles, and societal expectations of beauty that already accompany the domain of women.”
Marcelina uses personal accounts infused with love and humor to explore the complexities of identity, culture, and womanhood to transform the experiences into messages of celebration and empowerment.