Chandi A.'s Shirt

This shirt represents my ability to live out my two identities at once.

We did a bonding exercise during a college service trip, where the group leader asked us to “stand if you're a Colorado native.” Having been in here since I was adopted at six months old, I stood. Someone I considered a friend said, “No, you’re not, sit down.” It hit me hard.

Luckily, I have friends who are also Indian adoptees. Together, we talk through instances like these and how we can celebrate all parts of our identities as Indians and Coloradans.

While on that trip, I made this shirt. It represents overcoming exclusion and finding a way to be all of myself.