In "When I was Puerto Rican" by Esmeralda Santiago, Mami's character actions influence the conflict between her and Papi. When Papi comes to Macún to take the family back to New York, Mami refuses to leave without her children. This leads to a confrontation between Mami and Papi, which is resolved when Papi agrees to let the children stay with Mami in Puerto Rico. This conflict highlights Mami's fierce protectiveness of her children and her unwillingness to let them go.
Another example of how Mami's character actions influence the conflict is when she decides to move the family to Santurce. This decision creates conflict between Mami and Papi, who does not want to leave Macún. Mami's decision highlights her desire to provide better opportunities for her children, but also her reluctance to leave her hometown and the familiar way of life. This conflict shows how Mami's character is torn between her love for her family and her need to provide for them.
Finally, when Mami decides to enroll her children in school in the United States, this decision creates conflict between Mami and Papi. Mami's decision ultimately leads to the family's move to New York, which is a major turning point in the book. This conflict highlights Mami's determination to provide her children with the best opportunities possible, even if it means leaving behind their home and everything they know.
Overall, Mami's character actions influence the conflict in "When I was Puerto Rican" by highlighting her fierce protectiveness of her children and her determination to provide them with better opportunities. These conflicts show how Mami is willing to take risks and make difficult decisions in order to provide for her family, even if it means going against her husband's wishes.