I’ve watched my wife, a Puerto Rican Trans woman, struggle with her identity since I met her 6 years ago. She has undergone so much to be able to claim her space and be herself. She often feels alienated from her roots because of how much change she has gone through. It is difficult to be patient with people when they disrespect her identity (strangers, family, friends all alike), yet she perseveres and celebrates all of her intersections. I want this piece to reflect that strength I see so often in Latinx friends and family. No matter what, they know who they are and they are unapologetic about it! They are proud of who they are and where they are from. I’ve used Taino symbols, clothing, and art to represent the cultural roots spread wide across the Caribbean. The cat, who is wearing a mask inspired by an early Taino sculpture, radiates pride and strength with her intense stance. The final painting will use bright colors taken from the Puerto Rican and Trans flags.