The Chicago Fire is proud to present the 2008 Hispanic Heritage Day today during the Fire's match against FC Dallas. As part of the celebration, the Fire and Extra Newspaper will recognize 11 Teaching Heroes that have made significant contributions through to Chicago's Hispanic community. The winners will be recognized and presented with Chicago Fire jerseys at halftime. In addition, the Chicago Fire, in partnership with the Little Village Chamber of Commerce, Federal Life, & Advocate Hope Children's Hospital will award and recognize a student with a $1,000 scholarship to the college of his choice. The recipient of the scholarship is Gerardo Salinas of Richard J. Daley College. Below is a letter from Gerardo.
My name is Gerardo Salinas and I am currently a student at Richard J. Daley College. When I am not in school I am very family orientated. Family is an important part of my life because they have always supported me in every step I've taken. I am visually impaired so getting through life's ups and downs can be somewhat of a struggle. Regardless of the obstacles I face, they have never stopped me from trying new and different experiences.
In May of 2006 I was fortunate enough to attend the Special Olympics. While I was there I won the Gold Medal for the hundred meter run. I also received the Silver Medal for softball. In 2007, I, along with others, went to Washington D.C. to speak in front of Congress concerning immigration. My speech primarily targeted reasons as to why I feel illegal aliens should be granted citizenship. I also campaigned and did research for The Chicago Lighthouse, an institution for the blind.
My personal goal is to one day be able to use my speaking abilities to get freedom for the many immigrants who are still fighting for the right to be free. I hope that the United States can see that having borders is only hurting the situation. The situation of immigration is a very touchy subject, but I pray that it is a subject that can be solved without violence. Therefore, despite my obstacles I am willing to work hard and persevere over all obstacles so that those that come after me do not have it as hard as I did.
