Answer:
In the short story "My Father Goes to Court" by Carlos Bulosan, the main character is the narrator's father, who is accused of a crime he did not commit. The father faces several challenges that prevent him from easily proving his innocence and getting what he wants, which is to be acquitted and released. These challenges include:
Language barrier: As an immigrant from the Philippines, the father struggles with the English language, making it difficult for him to understand the legal proceedings and defend himself effectively in court.
Prejudice and discrimination: The father faces prejudice and discrimination from the American legal system and society due to his status as an immigrant and a person of color. This bias works against him in the courtroom.
Lack of resources and legal knowledge: As a working-class immigrant, the father lacks the financial resources and legal knowledge to hire a skilled lawyer who could better defend him in court.
Complexity of the legal system: The father is unfamiliar with the intricacies of the American legal system, which puts him at a disadvantage when trying to navigate the court proceedings and prove his innocence.
Despite these challenges, the father's determination, honesty, and the support of his son (the narrator) ultimately help him overcome the obstacles and secure his acquittal. The story highlights the resilience and strength of the immigrant experience in the face of adversity.