The Rivas Story
My grandma, Elsie de Rivas, celebrating her 80th birthday (December 14, 2017). A mariachi band played the song my grandpa used to court her when they first met.
In loving memory of Elsie de Rivas
December 14, 1937 - July 21, 2023
Elsie de Rivas is my grandma, and her immigrant story is truly one-of-a-kind. Growing up, I always knew that my dad and his family came from San Salvador, El Salvador, but I never felt truly connected with my Salvadoran heritage.
My dad was always hesitant to take us back to his home country, and I never really knew why until I heard my grandma's story.
Although she was born in El Salvador, my grandma moved to the United States with her parents when she was young. She grew up in San Francisco, CA, and even attended high school at Presentation High School (which is now located where the University of San Francisco stands).
As someone who later attended USF for college, I feel like I have a special connection to my grandma and her journey. It's amazing how much we can learn about ourselves and our family history when we take the time to listen and connect.
Growing up, I had always heard stories about my grandma's life in El Salvador, but it wasn't until I was older that I truly understood the depth of her experience. Despite being born in El Salvador, my grandma spent most of her childhood and teenage years in San Francisco. It wasn't until she was 17 that she and her family moved back to El Salvador, where she met my Papa Charlie. Unfortunately, I never got to meet him, but I know he was an important figure in my grandma's life.
Together, my grandma and Papa Charlie had six children in El Salvador. But as the situation in the country became more dangerous, they knew they had to leave. My grandma recalls the moment she realized it was time to go, as bullets flew past her and her children inside their home. It's a harrowing story, but one that is important to remember and honor.
My grandma's story is one of resilience and strength, a true immigrant tale. Growing up, I never fully understood or appreciated my Salvadoran heritage, but hearing her journey has helped me connect with it on a deeper level.
Despite her American ties from a young age, my grandma ultimately found herself back in El Salvador, where she met my Papa Charlie. Although I never had the chance to meet him, I know that my grandparents decision to come to the U.S. saved my family from the violence and danger that plagued El Salvador.
They were privileged to have the option to immigrate legally under my grandma's job at the American Embassy. But even with that privilege, the transition to the U.S. was not without its challenges. My family had to learn the value of hard work, and strive towards the American Dream. They did so with grace and determination.
Immigration is a complex and often scary process, but it's important to remember that we are all human. We all deserve to feel welcome and safe, no matter where we come from. I am proud to come from a family of immigrants.
My home is here in the U.S., but it's also in El Salvador and Colombia, where my family's roots run deep. No matter where I am, I am grateful for the opportunities my family's journey has provided me.
