Stories Of Hope, Heritage Fill SMC Immigrant Exhibit

REDWOOD CITY, CA — Flags from around the world line a walkway outside San Mateo County's government center, drawing visitors to an exhibit celebrating the stories behind the people who now call the county home.

The exhibit is on display in the lobby of 500 County Center through Friday during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

It was organized by the County's Office of Community Affairs and Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, features portraits and first-person stories from residents with roots in countries including Liberia, Hong Kong, Mexico, India, Taiwan, Lebanon, Colombia, the Philippines and Samoa.

"I think it's inspiring," said Ebenizar Gibson, a San Mateo County sheriff's deputy who stopped to read the displays. "It's nice knowing that the county appreciates diversity and the stories that each and every one of us have."

Gibson moved from Liberia to the United States in 2014 as a 17-year-old high school senior, leaving behind his family, friends and the only home he had ever known.

"It was a tough move, but so far I've been blessed by everything this country has to offer, and I'm taking advantage of it," he said.

Each display pairs a portrait with a personal reflection. One contributor describes becoming her parents' "American Dream." Another recalls "flavors and family traditions," while a third reflects on becoming "the living result of everything they left, built and carried forward."

"The stories humanize us and just make all of us feel more connected," organizer Deandra Lee said. "Instead of strangers in the county, we can feel a little more comfortable understanding that we're all coming from different parts of the world."

Lee said she hopes visitors will see something of themselves in the stories, even if their own experiences are different.