'I was introduced as the Chicano photographer, the Hispanic professor, the Latino speaker. As much as I was labeled, I too was honored that I might stand for what was sorely missing in the world, an example for what this could mean to those who could not find examples for themselves."

I have this massive draw to explore my culture. And not the food or the language but the people. And not just any people, but the artists and photographers -- like Adal Maldonado.

My cheeks seared red-hot, as I retreated...too embarrassed to say "my mother's maiden name is Barraza" in defense. I did not have my mother's name. Did that mean that I didn't have her culture?