Historically black colleges should continue to support the needs of African Americans students and the also the needs of growing Hispanics because it give adults another chance to educate themselves for the better. From the ones that does poor on test, low income, young parents, drop outs, and the ones that contain a criminal record. These are all people that are seeking for another chance in life and HBCUS are here to provide forgiveness. Horace Mann said, “Education, then, beyond all other devices of human origin ... the great equalizer of the conditions of men - the balance-wheel of the social machinery. It does better than to disarm the poor of their hostility toward the rich; it prevents being poor.” Sadly a Degree is the only thing that African Americans and Hispanics can contain to compete in the real world to be considered eligible for a job. Education is the equilibrium in United States and Historically Black Colleges and University has proven that fact plenty of times with the success of having alumni’s that accomplished the unbelievable and unthinkable. HBCUS knows living life not being white in society is arduous in especially in modern times because during this generation we are undergoing an open racism society. Not only against whites but every ethnic group even our own. I say this because Blacks and Hispanics are being degraded and Historically Black College and Universities give us an environment for the moment to not be reminded that Blacks and Hispanics are considered the inferior and make us superior in mind, body, and soul. Hispanics and Blacks need to come together because we are the race that people point their finger to when things in society are wrong. For example we are the race with the highest drop out rates, pregnancy, and the highest race in jail. We need to change these statistics by working together doing more community services and become a role model for the young and get involved in the Big Brother and Sister Program especially in college to show them that college. Because if we reach out to the young ages and becoame a role model they will view life and education as a requirement for gaining money and not stealing and ****.We must give confidence and love back that we have lost through the struggles and the constant battles of failure. Furthermore remind us that we are the youth of progress and were can change even more then our ancestors. When Blacks are Hispanics graduates it give them a purpose and send them off with a mission. A Mission that All Historically Black Colleges and University supplies, which is not to forget your past because you’re past will make the future and is the instigator of your life work. With the ambition of Og Mandino saying, “I will act now. I will act now. I will act now. Henceforth, I will repeat these words each hour, each day, everyday, until the words become as much a habit as my breathing, and the action which follows becomes as instinctive as the blinking of my eyelids. With these words I can condition my mind to perform every action necessary for my success. I will act now. I will repeat these words again and again and again. I will walk where failures fear to walk. I will work when failures seek rest. I will act now for now is all I have. Tomorrow is the day reserved for the labor of the lazy. I am not lazy. Tomorrow is the day when the failure will succeed. I am not a failure. I will act now. Success will not wait. If I delay, success will become wed to another and lost to me forever. This is the time. This is the place. I am the person.” A person that A Historically Black College had made and craft to perfection.
Like your average institution of higher learning, Historically Black Colleges & Universities aim at imparting general knowledge and developing intellectual capacities. But unlike those other schools, black colleges provide perhaps a sense of warmth to students, Afro Americans in particular. That is- the urge to help and work with students, accepting them as individuals and not just another number. However, some may say this assistance weakens students, disabiling the independence to apply a high leveled performance in the classroom. But there are greater reasons as to why and how HBCU's should continue to support the needs of African American and growing hispanic students in this country.
So, why should black colleges continue to support the needs of these minority students? Well, on the flipside of supposingly "weakening" these students, there is a definite positive outcome. The majority of the time, you'll find young African Americans coming from a more so lower class family and community in their transition to college. The same applies to hispanics, or Afro- Hispanic. Black colleges have given those less fortunate, but driven, the opportunity to grow into leaders of tommorrow at an affordable rate. In addition, we need to know our history. Reason is, because history runs much deeper than what we've been taught while growing up. Blacks, as well as hispanics, have played a huge role in our history. For instance, I took a history class at the junior college I attend. I found it fascinating the way my instructor was able to break things down from such a rather different perspective and relate it to what was going on in today's society. It is very important that our generation know these things, instead of lookiing at history as just a boring subject about wars. And if we appreciate and apply them to our everyday life, it will help better ourselves as individuals. What better place to learn all this material than at a black college!
Personally, I think the objective of how to support this matter is simple. In my solution, I sort of think psychology. Perhaps the best way to support the needs of the minority would be to raise the requirement level just a bit higher. But keep the cost of education the same. Because, as I mentioned earlier, most of us come from a rather lower class. However, it is time other black colleges raise the bar along with Howard, Tuskegee, FAMU, and other black institutions with higher standards. It'll help our youth develop a more competitive mind, which is definitely needed to make it out here in the world we live in today. Furthermore, our students wont look at these great institutions(HBCU's) as just a push over, or some place they'll "settle" for. If improvement is needed anywhere in black colleges, that's an area that should be taken into consideration.
In essence, there are much more reasons to why and maybe how HBCU's should continue to help young, proud African Americans and Hispanics.However, I think those few that I stated are most important. When it all adds up, we still may not be accepted as equals. Who cares? But in the mean time, our minds will expand and think beyond the opposition.
In recent times, African-Americans and Latinos in the United States have had some growing friction between them. Issues such as language, immigration and others have served as dividers. But are two communities face the same problems, such as high unemployment and incarceration rates, racism, lack of good health care, and others. Why should we attack these issues separately, when we can as a forceful collective? When it comes down to it we face a society more or less Eurocentric and we as minorities should work to forge a way for ourselves. Division and infighting works only to nullify our efforts and opinions. Coming from Langley Park, Maryland a predominantly Latino neighborhood as an African-American, I had the opportunity to see people of both cultures live side by side. I’ve come to appreciate and love the flavor of my hometown because of the diversity it represents. I think the main issue with our two communities is we don’t really understand what each has to go through daily. For first generation Latinos and their parents issues such as the language barrier may arise, and immigration status may complicate things with gaining employment. For African-American’s the perceptions, that Latinos are not willing to assimilate into American culture and learn English prevails; not to mention longstanding issues within the black family, slavery and more. So many misunderstandings have continued to be fostered recently. Like the story about Racist Mexican Gangs "Ethnic Cleansing" Blacks In L.A., this serves as a prime example of separatism and tribalism. In my hometown even though we have the different established ethnic groups, one thing still unites us all, which is were all, first and foremost Americans and were working towards the betterment of our respective situations and the country as a whole; the main problem is a “we versus them” mentality.HBCU’s for a long time have provided an educational resource for African-Americans long before, other recourses were available. They serve as an important tool of empowerment and preserving history. With more and more Latinos coming into the collegiate fold, I think it’s important that HBCU’s encourage Latino enrollment. I think they should assist them as much as they have served African-Americans for many years now, offering an educational setting among like-minded peers. Additionally serving the Afro-Latino community is of major importance, because they straddle two communities and have a unique experience in America. They have had to navigate the politics of both being black and Latino at the same time. HBCU’s definitely need to offer courses that address Afro-Latino’s and the Afro-Latino experience because they too have had their plight ignored and/or trivialized in their cultures.
The easiest question on my Graduate Record Examination (GRE) was in the Analytical Writing section. I had the choice of addressing one of two “Issue Topics.” The statement I choose to respond to read something like this: "We can usually learn much more from people whom share similar lifestyles as us, as opposed to people whose lifestyles contradict our own." To gather my thoughts I wrote phrases like, “learning from similar viewpoints limits creativity,” “playing it safe,” “not effective in problem-solving,” “prohibits the understanding of different cultures,” “creates close-minded people,” and “comfortable with friends.” These ideas helped formulate the body of my paper and ultimately guided me to conclude that knowledge gathered from people with homogeneous cultural, social, and economic backgrounds is very valuable, but there are also educational benefits when information is shared with diverse groups of people. I believe that African Americans and Hispanics in the United States should work together as minorities to address political, cultural, communication, and community issues because both populations have the potential of helping each other understand and appreciate their cultural differences, as well as assist in diminishing their communal handicaps (ie: lack of education, high unemployment rates, low entrepreneurship and business initiatives). In working together, a stronger sense of community between the two cultures has the potential of developing and providing a greater influence on policies that promote positive social change, nationally, regionally, and locally. Ultimately both communities can provide support for the other in their quest for success and a better quality of life.Based on the statistics found in the 2000 Census reports, more Hispanics can be found in the farming, construction, and production/transportation occupational groups, whereas African Americans represent a larger population in the management, sales, and services jobs. These figures are likely to reflect the cultural differences, skills learned through educational attainment, and/or the region in which the majority of these groups live. What’s most important to note, is that between these two races there’s a great depth of knowledge and skill in a variety of professions. Strong communities have strong foundations which are built by the people that live and work in them. To have two major groups hold knowledge in fields that are needed to develop communities is beneficial. With the right leadership, cooperation, and planning there are numerous possibilities in applying these skills to revive the African American and Hispanic communities on a local level.The poverty rates among both the Hispanic and African-American population are significant, with 23% and 25% respectively living below the poverty line. Furthermore, the median household income of African Americans is $29,423 and for Hispanics its $33,676.* To help improve these figures, both communities can use their skills in management, construction, service, and sales to develop industrial-style businesses. These businesses will provide opportunities for investment, minority entrepreneurship, employment, education, and networking within the African American and Hispanic communities. If the quality of the business and its surrounding area is maintained, these structures can add overall value to the neighborhoods within these cultural communities. Examples of a thriving community or one with potential can significantly affect the migration of businesses and investors to that area, and ultimately help in further revitalization initiatives. While advancements have been made throughout history to improve the educational opportunities of African Americans and Hispanics, more can still be done. The knowledge and support gained and held within the African American community can and should be shared with other disadvantaged groups, such as the Hispanic population, and vice versa. For example, after-school initiatives in both communities should be made available for all disadvantaged youth. Not only can the students receive tutoring and help with the college admissions process, but they’ll also have the opportunity to meet new people from different cultural, economic, and social backgrounds. This will help expand their thought process and make them better-rounded individuals. Other educational initiatives can be offered though high school or middle school exchange programs, where students can attend another school for a week, mouth, or semester to gain knowledge in a class not offered at the original school they enrolled in. High school students can participate in internships with local business leaders in both communities. These opportunities can help promote the idea of entrepreneurship, and introduce students to corporate American. Peer-tutorial language classes can be offered between the two communities to help teach and develop students’ bilingual abilities, while presenting a comfortable, social atmosphere. With a steady increase in the Hispanic population, being able to communicate across boarders is a great attribute to have and can help with future collaborations between communities.It is the responsibility of all educational institutions, not just Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), to provide a culturally rich, safe, and supportive learning environment to its’ students. These institutions should help students understand, appreciate, and respect American diversity, rather than tolerate it. Providing more opportunities to work, study, and volunteer abroad is one way to counteract negative stereotypes linked to different cultures. More specifically, HBCUs can collaborate with international universities in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central, and South America to offer exchange programs for their students. Just like any other abroad program, students can receive credit for their work, volunteer, and/or research while visiting the “sister” school. Not only will this help students learn about the various traditions of other cultures, but possibly encourage them to pursue an occupation on the international level. Simultaneously, HBCUs should focus a significant amount of their recruitment initiatives in Hispanic communities throughout the United States. Further integration of the two races on campuses will initiate more conversation, collaboration, and friendships across cultures. The students that take advantage of this atmosphere will graduate with a deeper appreciation for their culture and the worlds’. The African American Studies curriculum has become very popular among students of all races, and specifically those of color. Thus, I think it’s important to offer Latin American and/or Caribbean Studies curriculums as well. Not only will students of other nationalities benefit from these courses, but students whom identify themselves with these cultures can come to better understand the structure, history, and uniqueness of their own community.Community involvement is also important. HBCUs should offer opportunities for students to interact with different communities. Not only will their experience shape their lives and understanding of themselves, but their participation will positively affect the community they serve. Opportunities for employment, networking, and leadership roles may also derive from their hard work and dedication.With the help of HBCUs, the African American and Hispanic community has the potential of joining together to find solutions to their similar social, economic, and political issues while learning about other valuable characteristics of both communities. Furthermore, working together will build a stronger sense of community, and a deeper understanding and appreciation between the two cultures. The opportunities for success in both communities will increase, as well as the potential of developing and providing a greater influence on policies affecting urban areas. This success and influence will ultimately change the overall quality of life within the African American and Hispanic community.*2000 United States Census Report (http://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs.html)
In today’s society, a growing number of American’s are falling under the poverty line at an alarming rate. With the exporting of jobs overseas and the constant struggle of American companies amongst a global market, the American working class is pressed for heavy job losses. Highlighting society’s lower class are African Americans who average a yearly income of $29,000 and Hispanic Americans who average a yearly income of $41,000 (Census 2002). These are extremely low numbers and must be addressed now before more and more descendants of Hispanic and black Americans are unfortunately affected by these statistics. The best direction for both minority groups to take is a call for togetherness to create a collective support system addressing and solving problems that plague both societies. The past cultural layout between each racial community can be connected. Many black Americans are descendants of slaves who were forced from their country and homes. Many Hispanics are Spanish speaking descendants of Native American and Spanish background, who dealt and overcame the constant infiltration of outside European countries seeking land and wealth. In short, both races have seen an almost destruction of their past and were forced to rebuild their lives alongside people who have prospered in each races misfortunes. To combat this, both groups must unite and build upon one another in order to achieve some type of prosperity. To benefit each race politically, leaders must be placed in society that support lower class blacks and Hispanics. Lower class African American and Hispanic concerns are always placed aside and never addressed. Concerns like education and police action are constant issues never pressed by the government. Blacks and Hispanics must bind together and establish a connected voice, supporting those individuals who care about their problems. With Hispanics and Blacks together making up almost 25% of the American population, political power is very much in reach. In order to do this, communication between African Americans and Hispanics must be created in order to possess a political standing in the nation. As of 2007, a small connection between Hispanics and blacks is present, but has not been pushed in order to benefit both races overall. Attending an HBCU such as Morehouse College, one can easily see this connection, as Hispanics are present and flourishing within the student body. A Hispanic attending an HBCU is not at all uncommon and his or her presence will never get a second glimpse. With this commonality, the small connection between both races can be transformed into a deeper brotherhood/sisterhood, benefiting both peoples. Community values and issues are ideals that can be presented to form better connections as well. Although past and present issues affecting both Hispanic and black Americans in a negative form are similar, they have not been dealt with in a unified manor. Unfortunately, neither blacks nor Hispanics have leaders within each respective community that can speak for their entire community. With a lack of leadership a rift is created in terms of forming a feasible connection amongst each group of people. Again, a lack of a productive high school education is a major concern within both communities that must be taken into account and solved. These are some of the problems that must be addressed. These problems and concerns call for a strengthening of the relationship between African Americans and Hispanics.
The relationship between African Americans and Hispanics can be strengthened through effective communication and the influx of community leaders. As stated previously, communication is present, but must transform into a tighter one in order to truly benefit both races. This tighter knit includes the supporting of each race in various activities. An example of supporting one another could dabble in the field of athletics. Jersey of fan favorites such as Kobe Bryant and Ladamian Tomilson are constantly worn. Blacks could show support of Hispanics by simply wearing jerseys of well known Hispanic athletes like Tony Gonzalez, a future Hall of Fame tight end and David Ortiz, a future Hall of Fame baseball player. The Hispanic and black unity would tightened if well known black fashion moguls highlighted the stars of Hispanic culture. Communication can also be strengthened through the presence of history. Although many Hispanics are aware of black history, few blacks are aware of their counterparts historical past. In fact, many blacks still believe that Cinco de Mayo is the Mexican holiday for independence! If historical inaccuracies are corrected a better understanding of each others past can lead to a better understanding of each others present and future. Hispanic and Blacks, similar to two smaller nations, are two communities that must align themselves if they are to effectively compete and succeed in American society. The influx of community leaders must be created in order to achieve a firmer connection between races. A huge factor leading to the pains of both communities is that there is no accountability for the present situation. Both races seek for the government to take this responsibility, but the fact is the government awards other tasks ahead of lower class Hispanics and blacks. With this truth present, accountability must come within each separate community. Black leaders must put it upon themselves to help blacks succeed and Hispanics must do the same. If a community cannot survive within itself, then the presence of a relationship between outside communities like Hispanics and Blacks will never come to be. These issues fall into the hands of higher educational institution created to aid the African American and Hispanic communities directly.
The higher educational institutions of historical black past must play a pivotal role in addressing the needs of Hispanics and blacks in America. In order to effectively address issues and concerns affecting each group, the correct issues and concerns must be pointed out. The failure of the public educational system in America is a great travesty that even Bill Gates constantly addresses. Education is much more than just what one can learn and apply from a book, education sculpts the mind and overall character of individuals. Education is a tool necessary to build effect members of the community. HBCUs like Morehouse, Spelman, and Howard University are trailblazers who make it their goal to educate every student’s soul as well as mind. Teaching American past, focusing on African American involvement instead of the usual European slant is a great way to cultivate and inspire new thought from young black Americans. Highlighting black and Hispanic leaders in politics, business, science, and sociology is another great way for blacks and Hispanics to take pride in their culture and want to add in it. This education cannot be given at other higher institutions of learning, unless a student is majoring in that respective field. This situation is a travesty as the full depiction of African American history as well as Hispanic history is just as much a part of America as British and French history. Students must learn their past and must be told by successful blacks that success can be achieved by other means than just the white deemed American dream. HBCU’s must take on this responsibility and present this to the youth for them to create a new generation better than the last.
Being an African American female, I know and relate to the need for minorities to work together. Most of our representation as a nation is reflecting that of a Caucasian aspect. With this there is no concern of the struggles and failed attempts for advancements. Joining the two can lead toward greater and a more accurate depiction of what lives are like and what faults are inhabited in the different societies. An Alliance of the two would create an immense force to deal with. There will be stronger ideals to fight against and a more reliable reserve to fall back on.African Americans and Hispanic Americans have both undergone many moments of scrutiny, stereotyping, and other negative actions. From the start of slavery there have been tests and trials placed down upon the two ethnic backgrounds. Each group, although separately, have made attempts to prove their capabilities and strengths as minorities in a dominantly Caucasian society. The two groups are the best to portray what their struggles and weaknesses are whether in a political, cultural, communicating, or community based issue. They have the unbeatable insight and instinct to determine what can be considered the best for them. The cultures of African Americans and Hispanic Americans are closer in comparison of all the minorities. The two sides’ community issues are very similar because it has been said that the two have history in living in poverty more than any of the other minorities. When it comes to communication, it is likely that others will follow their lead of opening up to each other and getting the incentive to learn about different backgrounds. Others will be more prone to consider their differences and contemplate ways to help the two politically.When you sit down and reflect on possible reasons not to join forces, there are no objections relatively strong enough to fight the notion. So the question is, “Why not?” Fighting between the two will in-turn make them equally weaker and serves no purpose in civilizing either side. This also in-turn gives more reason for those in the majority to look down upon them with less incentive to help with issues. Degrading one community only depicts the degrader as incompetent. There are many moments when individuals expect things to work in their favor and this is relative for certain societies. These two particular ethnicities have been through more and have to somewhat gain their acceptance in America. It is understood that many get discouraged in their attempted development. This still does not give any excuses for being inefficient in their determination to overcome their past and present complications. Just as our ancestors, we have to work to attain our goals. They did not struggle and sacrifice for those who hold the future to lay back and take the back seat to their own lives. If it is apparent that we may have to take extra steps and precautions to gain more respect and consideration, getting together for a better lifestyle should be a priority.
America is changing. In our contemporary society, an influx of Hispanics has critically affected the economy and has transformed America’s political policy and our outlook on minorities. Lines between ethnicities are becoming so blurred, that an accurate census may not fully capture the entire composition of our society. The massive Hispanic migration into the United States impacts everyone – White and Black, and we all can learn a valuable lesson from their commitment to solidarity. When we speak of cooperative progression, Hispanics and African Americans have a unique relationship in regard to their social and mental disposition. Historically, African Americans have been the most underappreciated people in America, and to some degree we still seek compensation for social injustice. Hispanics are the new bearers of the social burden of discrimination, but their burgeoning populace places them in a unique position in the workforce.As the Hispanic population continues to grow, their influence in the United States will result in many changes in the political, social, and economic infrastructure. As one of the more powerful new influences within the United States, this minority, which will soon supersede Caucasians as the majority, truly has great power, but until they fully reach this plateau, they are still relegated to the status of minority, just as Blacks. Although Blacks and Hispanics come from different backgrounds, as a united front they have the opportunity to change their social status together, and compliment each other socially. The biggest common point between these two minorities lies in their outward image and a “natural” practice of environmental racism. This practice – environmental racism is nothing new; however, this discrimination is so common place that it has become an inherited acceptance.The fundamental basis of the Environmental Justice Principle stipulates that all people and communities are entitled to equal protection of our environmental health, employment, education, housing, and civil rights laws. As we can see, a systematic analysis of environmental issues combines social, civil, and political issues, but this seldom recognized aspect of racism does not garner attention until a national disaster such as **** Katrina. Dr. Robert Bullard explains environmental racism in one of his award winning books, Dumping in Dixie. Dr. Bullard claims that, “[a]n abundance of documentation shows black, lower-income groups and working class persons are subjected to disproportionately large amount of pollution and other environmental stressors in their neighborhoods as well as in their workplaces” (Johnson, Lyne 757). In addition to people of color, Bullard also observes that in times of national disaster, the one generally left behind are poor people, homeless, the disabled, and the elderly.Environmental racism has a profound impact on the health and image of minorities such as Blacks and Hispanics. For instance, the “ghetto” and even Spanish “barrios,” which are consistently classified as neighborhoods strictly populated with minorities or immigrants who govern themselves through street justice. In other words, those persons living in less affluent communities (i.e. minorities), they are not considered relevant. These persons, which are typically zoned together for political reasons, have less transportation to reach polling sites on election days and suffer from more health problems, because of their closeness to poor environmental conditions.W.E.B. DuBois urged African Americans and minorities to utilize their vote, but African Americans and Hispanics who are not registered, or have been disenfranchised for legal reasons, cripple their social potential. Studies have shown that one minority ethnicity – Cubans - tend to vote Republican. This poignant fact also reveals an important fact of Hispanic culture an unbridled commitment to family and community, meaning repeating common practices.If African Americans and Hispanics unite and realize that their plights converge into one road of disparity, they can pool their resources and reform the system from the inside, which will result in interracial collaboration and social progress. How can an older White man, who never grew up around Hispanics and Blacks fully represent them in Congress or even locally? These two minorities comprise the two largest groups after Caucasians, and once we make a concerted and united effort, the social gap will decrease even faster.The United States has been dubbed “the land of opportunity,” a place where immigrants or anyone come emerge from rags to riches. Culturally, politically, and socially the United States has seen a shift in infrastructure. As the social hierarchy changes, one factor remains constant though: the need for education and the acceptance of new ideals. The perfect opportunity for this open transfer of ideas is college and the world of academia. HBCUs came about in response to diligent young men and women who strived for advancement despite discrimination. Even though conditions are not so blatant today with widespread lynching and Jim Crow, minorities still struggle to have a foot in the door. I recently heard that the acronym for Historically Black Colleges and Universities might change to Hispanic and Black Colleges and Universities. I like the idea of HBCUs embracing other prominent minorities, but I also would like to see the sanctity of the establishment remain. If this change is totally legitimate I applaud the African American community for trying to help ease the transition for this immigrants and first generation college students. Ultimately, education is the starting point for everything we do in life, and for Blacks and Hispanics to emerge and use their collective voice, they must unite and realize that the majority of what happens to them as minorities will make them stronger and better leaders.
Reference:
Bullard, Robert. “from Dumping in Dixie.” Walkin’: the Talk: An Anthology of African American Studies. Ed. Vernon D. Johnson, Bill Lyne. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2003. 757 -71.
African Americans and Hispanics in the United States have to work together to address political, cultural, communication, and community facets of life. Generally it is evident that the economic status these two ethnic groups remain at the lowest brackets. But because we share common degradation and stereotypes, we have to band together in order to inform those with misconceptions. We also must work together to solve problems within our own communities, so that domestic disputes become obsolete. Once we have achieved domestic stability then we can voice our opinions on a national level. In America most Hispanics and African Americans share the democratic political view. As a result of this commonality work can be done to put out awareness for leading democratic candidates and proper voting procedures. African Americans along with Hispanics tend to overlook the voting process because we don’t feel represented, but how can there be representation and change if we don't vote for a political officer? We have to understand that if we have representation we are able to voice our opinions and views nationally. Culturally, we also have to work together to bring awareness to the masses. There are countless misconceptions about African Americans and Hispanics. These preconceived notions about our ethnic backgrounds are what other peoples look at and label us as. Cultural stereotypes can become void if and only if those misconceived are prepared to convince the masses. This is somewhat of a daunting task because these misconceptions have been apart of American society for many generations. African Americans and Hispanics have to begin putting out awareness nationally so that general statistics can show what is being diminished. For example, if the incarceration rates begin to deteriorate then there can potentially be less racial profiling. This is true for all misconceptions; if we can show the nation that they are untrue then we will be able to move forward amicably.We can address communication issues by becoming better represented politically and more importantly socially. If we as African Americans and Hispanics can coexist with others then there can be peace. Not to say that there isn't peace, there is, but national polls say that we are a belligerent people, incapable of forward mobility. This is why most of us live in inner city urban areas. We can improve this by becoming educated and showing those with misconceptions that we are in fact capable of communicating quite successfully with others. The general perceived notion about African American and Hispanic communities is we live in squalor. We can disprove this opinion by becoming better educated and/or moving to other areas without that title. We don't have to live in squalor; we can set our own destinies. I talked about each facet in an optimistic view to say that we shouldn't work together as the prompt says; we MUST work together in order to get things achieved. We have to settle domestic disputes and strengthen our home base first if we want to be looked at differently. We have been seen as inferior for far too long, and now is the time to show everyone we have the mental capacity to take on such obstacles and turn them in to advantages. Historically Black Colleges and Universities will continue to help those of African American and Hispanic backgrounds because in a nation of racial profiling and racial hostility this collegiate body serves as a beacon of hope and prosperity to minorities. After seeing countless family member and friends matriculate on to Historically Black Colleges and Universities I have seen what they have gained. They have become mature, well respected, and contributing citizens to society. These colleges have to help minorities because if no one else does, who will? This is the only collegiate body that will actually accept the minority under most circumstances. They have to do it because we need more African American and Hispanics in the work force. We need these specific minorities groups to become successful so that gradually common misconceptions become fallacy. The other reason why these colleges have to help African Americans is because it can create a circulation of wealth. When those who graduate become successful, they will give back to the college so that other people can achieve the same success. This is what is supposed to happen but there have been slight setbacks. These colleges have monetary problems because we tend to not give back to the colleges after graduating. If we want to give others the opportunity for upward mobility then we must GIVE BACK!!Historically Black Colleges help minorities by helping them build character and prepping them for the work force. My sister Tiffany Farrar, who graduated from Virginia State University in 2006, is now in the competitive work force. I have seen that her work ethic and her overall demeanor show success. She constantly tells me to “battle for what you want in life, because you are already at a disadvantage”. I know that Virginia State taught her this mentality. The professors instill this in all of their students.
With the rise of separation and racial tension in the world it is important for minority communities to unite and tackle all issues. political, cultural, communication, and community issues are all the areas that need to be handled. Politically, minorities need a stronger representation, besides Obamha there are no positive minority reps. Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson both have their faults that are attacked and cannot stand up against others criticism. Culturally and community wise, it is important to work together because we are very similar in many ways. We live similarly but the culture is different and that makes us all unique. To unite communication unity would be powerful. With websites such as face book, myspace, google and you tube communication lines have been excelled. Minorities can unite through theses forums to make positive change in all areas of the world. African Americans and Hispanics are the largest populations in America and if they were to unite it would be a indestructible force. Many groups of the world still hold African Americans in a low position and therefore our voice is not recognized furthermore it is ignored. Minorities need to look at the students in colleges today as a resource for change. Students are in school getting an education not only for their field but we are receiving life lessons. Even though minds develop as children it is more important to seek those who are older If you look at it the word community appears to scream COME UNITE and that’s what minorities such as African Americans and Hispanics should do.
Before the relationship between African Americans and Hispanics can strengthen their ties each community has to strengthen themselves. A community can not love and build with another if it can not love and build with themselves. We must build within to make a strong foundation inside the communities separately before adding more into it. There has to be a sense of leadership but not dictatorship. Furthermore, there needs to be more integration within the families. There should be no more “ Black Section” of a city or “ Hispanic Section” because it causes a loss of weaving of cultures. Family strength also ties into the process of strengthen the relationship between the two cultures. After that is done a level of understanding and peace has to be created. There can be no power struggle within a united force. There has to be a sense of leadership but not dictatorship.
HBCU’s can continue to support students by supporting them finically in their education. As a student that has ran into financial issues with college it is necessary to have funds. There should be educational programs set up for students when they begin school. It is necessary for these programs to be in place students are the future more over black students are the future. There is more to it than just providing money, Many students don’t have the emotional support that a family provides. Some systems should be set up to pair alums with freshman in order to let the students know they to can achieve their goals. This is done by setting up a program to demonstrate positivity of black males and females to aspiring revolutionaries.
