The two groups currently thought of under the distinctive heading of “Minority,” are the African Americans and the Hispanics. Together they groups should unite in the process of working together to address various political, cultural, communications, and more importantly community issues because their needs are concerns are similar. I feel that they should be involved in the struggles to increase educational opportunities and funding. Fighting against racial profiling and for the support of some limited affirmative actions policy. Affirmative action, although created to give African Americans a hand up or to level the playing field.
Sidney Poitier clearly stated the following in his autobiography “The Measure of a Man”
“There are also people who say, “Hey, after thirty years of affirmative action, they’ve got it made. Black people— it’s their own fault if they can’t make it today. Yeah, well, of course they say that. And they say it not just about black people. They say it in every country. We did something for you people, whoever “you” are. And we think that’s quite enough now. That’s the gist of it: we’ve done something, and we think that’s quite enough. It may not be perfect, but it damn sure comes close to being okay............
That’s the way it is. But let’s not get stuck there. We have miles to go before we sleep“
It is no secret both groups have and are presently in the struggle to overcome the negative stereotypes that others (the “majority” as well as each group) perceive of them. These stereotypes are relating to poverty, income, welfare, crime, gang involvement, and lack of education.
In fact, they are more alike than most ethnic groups in America. Both groups have a strong desire to achieve economical and educational achievements. Unfortunately, society dictates and exploits the negative characteristics of these groups via media (TV, magazines, movies, videos, etc.). African Americans and Hispanics should band together to help overcome the stereotypes and labels that have crippled most and are still having an effect on those who have overcome.
A strong alliance should be established by setting up programs in all areas. These programs can consist of positive role models and mentors. Spanish and English tutoring should be made available to bridge the gap between the two groups. Social events could also be held to share each other cultures. Writing workshops should also be made available to send letters to their delegates and congressmen to address their needs and concerns.
Unfortunately, there is a competition that exists between the two groups for economic gain and of course, the elevation of financial status. The focus should be on the individual creating and impression upon the employer on what they themselves can offer a company or perhaps better yet, to investigate the entrepreneur side of business. The economic and financial gains will follow.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities should continue to support the needs of African American students as well as the growing population to increase awareness how important furthering their education. This will greatly benefit them in the long run. Statistics show that African Americans and Hispanics have lower levels of education compared to Asians and Caucasians. To promote awareness Black Colleges and Universities need to hold activities either at their campuses or go around to different high schools. Encourage them daily to not only graduate from high school but to go to college, if not at their school then somewhere else. Black Colleges and Universities need to show what they can offer to students short and long term. Students need to know and realize that even though they are the minority they can still make a difference in the world. By African Americans and Hispanics working together a vision can come true sooner for generations to come. No longer be labeled a minority but an equal.
