Working Together
As the number of black immigrants in the United States increases, “a new African American community is being forged…in which culture and nationality are becoming more important than skin color. It is as diverse—and as divided”—as the Hispanic community which “includes persons from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Central and South America,” and other Spanish cultures, regardless of whether they are Indian, Black, or White. (1; 2) The persistent tensions and divisions along cultural lines within these respective communities block effective communication and ultimately undermine their mutual pursuit of equality. Furthermore, the majority—in sometimes willful ignorance—often discounts these internal differences, narrowly defining both groups along stereotypical lines and relegating them to the most menial positions of society. It is thus that African Americans and Hispanics face similar challenges with identity and realizing full potential.
With regard to socio-economic status, ”the net worth of African-American and Hispanic households is less than 10 percent that of whites. Pew reports that the median net worth in 2002 for Hispanics was $7,932 and only $5,988 for black households. In contrast, white median net worth was more than 10 times higher at $88,651. ” (3) The overall rising inequality means fewer opportunities for upward mobility, as the prospects of college, home ownership, and wealth expansion are eclipsed by the reality of day-to-day survival. The socio-economic peril of these two communities thus stands in tandem with threatened political agency, as "ultimately, economic power begets political power." (4)
African Americans and Hispanics should work together to address these issues because as the old adage states, “There’s strength in numbers.” A concerted effort—in the absence of presumed competition and the resulting hostility—would increase morale and resilience as small gains in one community instill the hope of ultimate success for all. Additionally, the syncretism of each community’s differing perspectives and culturally endowed ideologies is certain to give rise to more innovative and comprehensive strategies than if they were to attack their issues in isolation. A stronger relationship and united front will empower both communities to make the kind of waves necessary to rock the majority boat and effect lasting change.
Strengthening the Relationship
The proliferation of joint cultural exhibitions and celebrations could help strengthen the relationship between African American and Hispanic communities by building a bridge in the gap of mutual understanding and acceptance. This type of exchange will foster an appreciation of differences and most importantly the identification of inherent similarities unto a greater level of unity and affinity. A greater level of unity and affinity, would in turn beget the partnering of existing and new social organizations and the creation of new alliances within the currently budding social movements. This would strengthen the relationship by providing forums for much needed discussion and increasing the opportunity for widespread involvement. Such entrenched collaboration would also allow for the alignment and expansion of goals, ultimately increasing the effectiveness of initiatives as the movement grows in audacity.
The Contribution of Historically Black Colleges & Universities
Historically Black Colleges & Universities should continue to support the needs of African-American students—and Hispanic students—by affording them greater educational opportunities through scholarships, a competitive and broad curriculum, and diverse enrichment programs. This preparation in tandem with further career counseling and internship opportunities will empower students to compete and increase representation in various sectors of the American juggernaut. The creation of mentor programs and community partnerships with the local populations of both groups will also help to invigorate ongoing initiatives with the unique blend of tenacity and idealism that is endemic to collegiate youth. HBCU’s can address the needs of the growing Hispanic population through such initiatives that seek to inform and empower. Additionally, HBCU’s should actively encourage students to pursue careers in education as teachers, professors, and administrators. Increased minority representation in all levels of education will only further increase the opportunities for minority students in the future.
HBCU’s were established on the premise of providing a space for the celebration of black history, the preservation of black culture, and the development of black society. The initial vision must continue to expand to accommodate Hispanics and other minorities, as the numbers of multi-racial individuals increase and shared experience blurs racial lines. The contribution of HBCU’s is paramount because they have the power to change the tide of political, economic, and social complacency by molding the minds of new generations to walk along the paths laid by past generations. HBCU’s, in their very existence, continue to ask the why’s—or “Y’s”—of yesterday and today in expectance of an answer to justice tomorrow.
By: Nnenna Ukwu
Yale University, B.A. Theater Studies 2005
New York University: Tisch School of the Arts M.F.A. Candidate 2009
Works Cited
1. Fears, Darryl. “A Diverse -- and Divided -- Black Community.” Washington Post. February 24, 2002. URL: http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A57951-2002Feb23?language=printer.
2. Gines, Venus. Hispanic vs. Latino. School Of the Americas Watch. http://www.soaw.org/article.php?id=830.
3. “Wealth Gap Widens for African Americans and Hispanics.” Center For American Progress Action Fund. October 18, 2004. http://www.americanprogressaction.org/talkingpoints/2004/10/tp_2004-10-18.html.
4. Kvicala, Jim. “U.S. MINORITIES SPENDING MORE ON EATING OUT AND ENTERTAINMENT AS BUYING POWER INCREASES, SAYS UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA'S SELIG CENTER.” Terry College of Business. August 4, 2004. http://www.terry.uga.edu/news/releases/2004/minority_buying_power.html.
