African American and Hispanics are the two largest minority groups in the United States and their populations are rapidly growing. A united effort between these two ethnic groups will result in a stronger community, creating an ambitious minority generation with the characteristics it takes to shape a better America. Their relationship can be strengthened by effective communication, efforts of cooperation toward a better community and cultural awareness. Historically Black Colleges are a huge positive influence and support factor in this effort. They promote unity, cultural awareness, pride and empowerment; provide opportunities for leadership skill development; introduce minorities to an environment in which they can develop around people much like themselves and stimulate growth, achievement and strong character in the minority population.
African American and Hispanics in the United States need to work together to address political, cultural, communication and community issues for many reasons. The main reason is that minorities make up a huge part of the United States population and it is only fair in this democracy that people of color are represented. There is none better than a particular ethnic group to represent it than itself. Another reason is that if society in the U.S. doesn’t take into account different cultures and backgrounds such as the African American and Hispanic cultures; minorities may feel isolated and callous toward their own community. This may result in cultural or religious intolerance; as hate often thrives from ignorance. Furthermore, America’s reputation as a diverse melting pot where equal opportunity is promoted will begin to deteriorate.
If Politics continue to be disproportionately dominated by the majority then African American and Hispanic youth may feel discouraged to pursue a career in the political field, they may shy from leadership positions thus resulting in arrested development. If African Americans and Hispanics do not work together to address cultural and community issues the heritage, culture and background of these particular ethnic groups can easily be forgotten. Many minoritycommunities have become too dangerous. Too many minorities choose a role model based on the amount of money they have and not whether or not they choose to uphold the morals of society. They look at who is feared the most and mistake that for respect. It is so easy for this ignorance to be confused as the minority culture. Generations have been raised on this way of thinking and it is extremely necessary, as well as past time, to reverse such thoughts.
Minorities need to unite and take the first steps to build a stronger community. It is essential to display pride in diverse and unique cultures, to build leadership skills and to communicate effectively with one another.
Effective communication, working together for the betterment of the community and learning about each other’s cultures are good starts to a successful and bound relationship between African American and Hispanic communities. It would be useful to organize more community organizations such as the Boys and Girls club, community crime watch, block parties, talent shows for kids, neighborhood clean-ups, cultural activities, community tutoring and classes and activities that involve giving (feed the homeless, give to the needy, support research foundations for **** Cancer and ****). Participation in local/state and national level politics would create opportunities for the two groups to work together in many different areas. Better communication between the two ethnic groups will make it apparent that essentially they are working toward the same goals. Further thought will hopefully lead them to the conclusion that they have twice the potential if they are working together and they can cover a wider range of needs. Finally if we are aware of our different cultures, we can understand each other. This will create less friction and a healthy environment for teamwork.
Historically black colleges and universities should continue to teach and promote unity, empowerment and pride in culture. They should continue to work toward a "can do" attitude in minority communities and provide environments where success, knowledge and professionalism are evident in a minority population. They need to continue to operate institutes that enable persons of color to develop their character around positive individuals much like themselves. This is important because this stimulation of growth and achievement will trickle down from generation to generation. Hopefully resulting in a day minorities cease to have the lowest test scores in elementary and high schools and begin to choose more role models based on education, character and community involvement. If so, these new generations will strive for a good education, step forth for leadership positions, build strong character and become thoroughly involved in their communities.
African Americans and Hispanics can work together to achieve greatness. It is essential that these ethnic groups create opportunities for their present and future generations to represent themselves and become leaders. Historically black colleges induce motivation and drive; create a support system; familiarize minorities with professionalism, leadership positions, community involvement, empowerment and cultural pride and promote integrity.
