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Rodolfo Gonzales portrays the battle of culture and customs in a clashing society in his poignant poem “ Yo soy Joaquin/I am Joaquin”. Rooted strongly in his Mexican heritage, Gonzales acknowledges the lost economic battles of his ancestors, and their ability to maintain their culture. The poem is told in a tone of hope and pride in and of his people and their need to endure and educate the youth culture. The fight for the future of his people can only be won by realizing the painful and triumphant victories and defeats he has endured. Many people come to America to achieve the “American dream” sacrificing their culture and traditions of their native land along the way. Society is a white washed Christian world where people prostitute their dignity and morals to get ahead. Gonzales observes the effects modern society on his culture and pridefully states “I am Joaquin” with such conviction it se