The United States, which is often known as the melting pot of the world, possesses two of the most influential communities in the world. Hispanics and African Americans should be able to work together in order to continue the growth they have had individually. The relations between these communities can be strengthened through education and Historically Black Colleges and Universities are great venues to achieve that goal.
I believe that Hispanics and African Americans are not so different from each other. Both minorities exist in a country that holds negative stereotypes against them. Both minorities have started from the bottom of the nation and are continually working their way up the political, business, and success ladders. Both have transcended their cultures or developed a culture that is becoming more widely accepted and imitated by the majority community. Thus, African Americans and Hispanics should truly invest in working together in the United States to uplift both communities to greater heights. The more these two communities can work together, the more influence both will gain in politics and in the United States.
There are many ways that relationships between Hispanics and African Americans can be strengthened. First, both communities must acknowledge that they do not have significant differences between each other. They might have interests in different types of music; however, both do love music and increasingly their musical influences are converging. From background music to collaborations by musicians, these exhibitions demonstrate that the communities have already begun to strengthen community relations. Second, the language barrier that hinders many communities from accepting other communities will need to be dissolved. It is not necessary that every African American learn Spanish or Portuguese or even that Hispanics learn English, but each should be willing to learn the other’s language in order to better communicate with one another. Many disagreements and misconceptions between associates persist because one doesn’t understand what the other is saying, and they may even speak the same language. When people do not speak the same language, dispelling arguments and misconceptions can be substantially more difficult. Third, both communities should take a strong interest in learning about the other community. It is much easier to build a relationship with someone else if you can understand where they are coming from and are open to their culture. Night celebrating different cultures, parades, festivals, and other activities can be held to help African Americans and Hispanics strengthen their relationships.
Historically black college and universities are the best outlet for many African Americans to receive education. Also HBCUs can be helpful tools for the Hispanic community as well. Majority schools are always trying to increase their multicultural enrollments; however, they are still very limited on the admittance of the Hispanic students. Therefore, Historically Black Colleges, which are known for accepting minority students, is a better outlet for Hispanics. These colleges are the best way to avoid the discrimination that majority schools seem to possess. The Hispanic and African American communities are sending more students to colleges than ever before and each need an outlet that they will receive an equally enhancing education. Historically black colleges should continue to promote the enrollment of the Hispanic community and show them that the African American community is in support of their search for higher education.
African Americans and Hispanics are going to be influential in the United States for a long time. Higher education is the best way for anyone to enhance their status in the world. For both communities to continue their growth it is in the best interest of both communities to work together.
