Ovidio Oltra Alonso – Raquel Valero
My uncle, Ovidio Oltra Alonso, went on the Winnipeg. My grandparents, my other uncle and his family went to Chile in the late 40s. My family and I went in the late 50s — I was still very young at the time. One of my brothers was born there. Although I was born in Spain, I still carry Chile in my heart and it was hard for me to adapt here. Since I grew up in Santiago, I’m not sure exactly where I’m from, but maybe it doesn’t matter. After all this time, I settled in Valencia. This is where I studied, where my children and grandchildren were born; but I know that if Chile could somehow move closer to where I live now, I would be happier for it. Thanks to the Winnipeg and to my uncle’s journey (my mother’s older brother), I went to Chile and was able to enjoy this beautiful country, but dictatorships have left their mark on my life…