Mi Testimonio: We Are Not Alone

by Elizabeth Galvez

"Sacrificios" is the title of the new mural dedicated to the 53 migrants who died after being trapped inside a trailer on the South Side in June 2022. Three artists painted the mural at Mission County Park. Credit: Bria Woods

My grandfather used to tell a story — one we heard often, usually when he was about to prove my grandmother wrong or finally give her something he had long promised. He would start with his favorite line:

"Maria, mi amor… one day we’re going to go to otro país donde tendré mucho trabajo. We'll have a house on a farm. And you’ll have a window over the kitchen sink."

My grandmother never doubted him. It took time, but he made that journey to Texas, and eventually, he sent for her. Though it was hard, she always told us, "I never left my children or my faith behind."

And here I stand in 2025, defending those with the same dream my grandparents had.

I was downtown at the No Kings protest, handing out cards — nothing extraordinary. But as I stood there, I could feel the sadness in the air. Worry etched into faces. Silence heavy. I didn’t go to protect anyone we all know our God is the true protector. I went to offer aid. To give help to those still chasing the same hope my grandparents once did.

And in that moment, something hit me deep in my spirit.

They crossed so I could stand.

They were silent so I could have a voice.

They hid in the shadows so I could live in the light.

I come from a long line of strong Mexican women. Women who prayed quietly, sacrificed deeply, and believed fiercely. And somehow even though many of them have passed I felt them with me. I felt God walking beside me as I moved through the crowd. I wasn’t alone.

This is a scary time. A time that has tested my faith and the faith of many. But just like my grandmother, who held on to her faith as she came to a new country, I refuse to let fear steal my faith now. I will not lose heart standing next to my brothers and sisters.

We’re still dreaming. Still standing. Still believing.

And we’re not alone.

"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." — Micah 6:8

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Elizabeth Galvez is a wife and mother of two from San Antonio, Texas. After working as a pastry chef for years, she discovered my true passion in philanthropy. Joining Central Church of God deepened her love for teaching. She has taken courses in Chicano studies, a subject close to herheart as the proud granddaughter of immigrants. MyHerbackground inspires her to uplift and support others in meaningful and lasting ways.