This book is an oral history of ten Chicana women ranging in ages from 84 to 24. The collection of interviews reflects how their hard work and determination have significantly changed their lives for the better. The backgrounds of the women vary; some were born in Mexico and moved to the United States. Others were born in the Southwest and later emigrated to the Midwest. They have been witnesses to the great social change that has occurred in the United States over the last 20 years. The different opinions of the women reflect the societies in which they live. These women have undertaken different occupational and professional opportunities. To accurately portray these Chicanas, their own words are reproduced as closely as possible. The interviews were conducted in Spanish and later translated into English. The women express their opinions about their religions, their families, their economic standings and many other issues. (ALL)