An Interview with Jose Mari Ortiz by John Flores

In the beginning process of the Oral History Project, I had trouble deciding on who to interview. After unintentionally looking at the pictures of the day we immigrated to America, I came into a conclusion that I should interview someone who is currently new to the country. So I interviewed Jose Mari Ortiz, a 14-year old high school student who just recently came from Manila, Philippines. The reason why I interviewed him was because his expectations about United States are still fresh and are easy to acquire.

Blog Content:

Background

Experience in Philippines

Life in America and Expectations

Deciding to Move to America

Political Participation, Racism and Going Back to Homeland

Background:

In this video, Jose Mari Ortiz talks about his background, hobbies and more.

Experiences in the Philippines

In this video, Jose Mari talks about his experiences in Philippines. He talks about his childhood memories,  hometown in Philippines and Christmas in Philippines.

Life in America and Expectations

In this segment, Jose Mari acknowledges his life in America today. He mentions his neighborhood and living experiences. He also talks about his expectations about America, his education and future.

Deciding to Move to America

In this clip, Jose Mari was asked "If he HAD the choice to move here to America, would he choose to go with his family or would he choose to stay in the Philippines and stay with his relatives.

Political Participation, Racism and Going Back to Homeland

In this clip, I asked Jose Mari about his views on politics and if he was 18 years old, would he register to be a voter. Racism was also included in this video. Lastly, I asked him if he wants to go back to the Philippines and live there for the rest of his life.

Pictures:

The Ortiz Family

Jose Mari Ortiz with his Friends

Jose Mari's 5th day in U.S.

Jose Mari's 5th day in U.S.