African-Americans and Hispanics in the United States should work together as minorities to address political, cultural, communication, and community issues… simply because there is strength in numbers. Social and political movements succeeded because individuals were willing to contribute their small part to a larger plan for political, cultural, and community change. Contrary to some opinions, change is possible. The current presidential race includes members of both gender and racial minorities. These are the first of many steps towards greater cohesiveness among all communities—particularly the African-American and Hispanic communities via our power to vote. Although idealistic to some, our power to vote can create voices for our political, cultural, and community issues. Too often, we find ourselves complaining but rarely do we actively work to make a change. I cannot speak for others, but I have often fallen in the former category. Fortunately, my level of optimism increased (over recent years) and I have made strides to do my small part —e.g. mentor/tutor at-risk youths, help the homeless, and most of all… vote. I believe the movie “Glory” highlights the struggle for political, cultural, and community change. The movie ends with the important question… if one should fall, then who will pick-up the flag? To analogize, today our question is…who will pick-up the flag for change and continue to run despite all odds? I’m personally unwilling to forfeit on the dreams of Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Martin L, King Jr., Malcom X, Caesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta, and more. Communication deserves separate discussion. Communication sets the core for political, cultural, and community change. One minority group may disagree among each other. Likewise, another minority group may disagree among each other. The level of difficulty; however, should not discourage efforts to open the channels of communication. The multiplicity of ideas in a forum of open and free discussion creates the foundation for collaborative efforts. All opinions are vital to the discourse on political, cultural, and community change. During my undergraduate studies, one professor said, “Today, many students missed out on a different perspective because of your silence.” We should challenge ourselves to enter a daily dialogue with others about political, cultural, community, and cultural issues. If we break the silence, then perhaps change may occur. I do not believe there is one simple answer to how we can strengthen the relationship between African American and Hispanic communities living in the United States. Both African Americans and Hispanic communities derive from diverse backgrounds. Thus, I believe the first step to strengthening the relationship between these two communities should include learning and embracing the cultural, language, etc. of the other. I do not imply that one community should replicate the other, but instead I encourage the celebration of diversity. Our communities should explore the depths of our various languages, music, dance, and all other art forms which define our communities. Most importantly, we should define ourselves and not others. Historically Black Colleges and Universities should continue to support the needs of African American students and the growing Hispanic population because such entities help develop individuals who strive to make a change. These individuals connect to a network of communities and remain attached to those communities. I did not attend a HBCU, but my mother and sister attended one. Both actively stand as leaders in their prospective fields and connect with many communities. I must admit… I completed my undergraduate studies, but I did not have the opportunity to develop the same sense of community and togetherness. I now reach out today for greater understanding and greater sense of community….
