In Conclusion

This exhibit was created to explore the hardships that immigrant Americans faced during the Great Depression era. It depicted people from all over the world, it told their stories, showed their faces, and brought their voices to life. Most importantly it answered my question: how and why was the Great Depression Era harder for Immigrant Americans. Not only did these people face one of the worst economic times in United States history they also had the added challenges of language barriers and discrimination. Something that natural born Americans didn't have to face.

Despite these barriers that made it harder for immigrants at the time my research showed that they still pushed forward. In these stories I found people who were so strong and resilient, they came here for a better life and they worked so hard for it. Despite the struggles they faced in the United States they were so grateful to be here. The American Dream was alive for them. It seemed like they were always looking on the bright side of things which is something I truly admire. 

I also learned that there were also things that made the Great Depression a little easier for some Immigrant Americans. There were many stories of immigrants taking part of New Deal programs such as the FSA. I had originally believed that these programs were only offered to American citizens but was happily surprised to see people who weren't citizens but living in the United States getting to take part in them.

There was also one thing that wasn't quite as obvious that I believe made it a bit easier for Immigrant Americans to get through the Great Depression. This was the preservation of their cultures. Many stories told of people finding great joy in telling stories of their mother country and keeping up things like holiday traditions and family recipes. Things like this that fill your heart with joy can help you through even the hardest of times. 

These people are truly some of the most hardworking and resilient people I have ever heard of and I thouroughly enjoyed being able to tell their stories. I hope you enjoyed hearing them as well.