Living in poor communities such as Richmond and San Pablo has been bitter sweet. It has taught me important lessons about the reality most people face in the planet. I am aware that living in the US has made my life more convenient compare to other folks in third world communities but our struggle is the same in many way. Living in these communities has given me a different perspective of our government, corporations and the media. Who ever knew that the television shows I use to love watching were just a distraction to keep me occupied, thus not seek the truth. Who knew that the Nike shoes I love oh so dearly came from individuals who were being oppressed? Well at that time I didn't know. Living next to a refinery is something I grew up with and never thought of it has abnormal. Richmond residents and residents who live close to the refinery all have a struggle that many indigenous and poor communities can relate to. All around the world poor communities are targeted, hence dirty refineries, factories, nuclear plants and other means of production are being established in our neighborhoods. What happens when there is a explosion, oil spill, and other tragedies? we are the ones affected by it. The saddest part is that the problem is our solution, the same people who have destroyed our health are the ones that need to step up and fix the problem. But how can we trust someone who has lied to us numerous of times and kills community leaders in other countries? I am very grateful to live in the US but I am also aware that my convenient life comes with a price that we are paying but cannot see due to lack of information in the news. What hits me the most is that it could of been me, I could of been the indigenous people dying due to destruction of the environment. I say my experience living in poor communities have been bitter sweet because learning first hand is more meaningful than hearing about it. I can relate to people who I want to reach out to and plan to do so. I truly believe its about relating to people and showing them how we are all connected. I am the peasant in Mexico, I am the sweatshop worker in China, I am the mother in Palestine, we are all in the same struggle. We are all looking for equality in a world full of corruption and greed.