Tell us about your family’s roots.

Part of my family has been in the US for like 13 generations; the other side for four. Mostly European countries, particularly central and eastern, including Czechia and Poland.

What is your family’s migration story?

One branch of my family has been in the United States since 1648, and has a relation to an early US President. One branch came over three generations ago and worked hard labor to give their children a better life. I now get to live a life unimaginable to my ancestors, and am grateful for that. I’m also conscious that today’s immigrants are essentially my ancestors in a different time. When my family migrated, others welcomed them; it is my honor to do the same today.

What’s one memory, story, recipe, or item you and your family have carried with you?

My mother still makes golumpki, polish sausage, and pirogi.