In recent weeks, news broke that the Trump administration is pressuring the Smithsonian to review and potentially remove works of art that it labels “divisive” or “ideological.” Among the threatened pieces is my artwork, My Dreams Are Not Illegal.
This illustration, which features an Afro-Latina woman surrounded by monarch butterflies, was created to honor immigrant communities, DACA recipients, and the resilience of those who continue to dream beyond borders. It’s not “divisive”, it’s a reflection of lived reality. It’s a celebration of culture, identity, and the right to be seen.
Why Art Matters in Museums
Museums are meant to tell the story of who we are as a nation—our history, our struggles, our triumphs. Removing art because it makes some uncomfortable isn’t preserving history; it’s rewriting it. When we silence immigrant, queer, Black, brown, and marginalized voices in cultural spaces, we erase the very fabric of America’s story.
Art isn’t propaganda it’s truth, expression, and connection. My piece, and many others under threat, exist to start conversations about identity, belonging, and justice. That is what makes art powerful.
The Danger of Censorship
When a government decides what stories are “acceptable” to share, it sets a dangerous precedent. History has shown us what happens when entire communities are erased from cultural narratives: oppression deepens, and democracy weakens.
Labeling immigrant stories or LGBTQ+ representation as “woke” is a political tool meant to silence those who are already fighting to be heard. It’s not just about removing art from a wall—it’s about stripping away visibility, dignity, and recognition.
Why I Refuse to Be Erased
My Dreams Are Not Illegal will continue to live beyond any museum wall. As an artist, I am committed to amplifying stories from the borderlands and beyond that reflect resilience, culture, and hope.
Art belongs to the people. And no administration can erase the truth of who we are.
How You Can Support
- Share: Amplify the voices of artists under threat.
- Visit: Support local and national museums that remain committed to telling diverse stories.
- Wear the Message: Support independent creators and artists. You can shop my designs on my artist shop.
- Speak Up: Demand that cultural institutions remain independent from political censorship.
Our dreams are not illegal. Our stories are not disposable. And our art is not going away.
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The Trump administration wants to remove my artwork My Dreams Are Not Illegal from the Smithsonian. I’m sharing it with you for free as a digital download—because our stories cannot be silenced. Subscribe below to get your copy and join my newsletter for updates, new art, and ways to support independent artists.
