New York

Jose Garcia Guzman

I am from a city full of life. Where it’s cold and we say “Ayo, it’s brick!” But still go to the deli and cop freshly made bacon, egg and cheeses with a $1 Arizona

I am from kids in white tees, Nike shorts, and Air Forces. From streets with the hydrants open, people scared to drive by so they don’t dirty their car. I am from the sound of Mr. Softee, kids racing to Lyons Square Park.

I am from sirens up and down the block, trying to walk to school. I am from Sprayground bookbags and “You deadass still wearing that bag, nahhhh you ice!” Where people go to 47th St. just to get sturdy on TikTok. I am from loud bass, the floor shaking, you can hear it from down the street.

I am from dirty trash bags stacked up, rats running past your feet. Where you see people with chanclas and family doing BBQ outside in the park.

Guess where I’m from.