Within the history of the United States, the notion that White people are the superior race and that minority groups are perceived as less has not changed much as all throughout the years. Hispanics are the largest minority group in the United States, yet the narrative about this group is not positively portrayed within our society. I believe that the perception of Hispanic communities has gotten worse specifically with the upcoming 2024 presidential election just around the corner. After reading articles for this course, I have realized that Hispanics (and other minorities) face a complex challenge when it comes to trying to create a positive image of themselves whilst at the same time confronting the way society portrays them.
Presidential candidate Donald Trump pushes forward the notion that all Hispanics are “rapists,” “criminals,” “dangerous,” and “drug dealers,” which can have deleterious effects which can continue to promote racism and prejudice to individuals who share similar beliefs with him. I think that ever since Trump came into the presidential scene there has been a rise in individuals having the courage to give in to their racist and prejudiced beliefs/ideas just because Trump is adamantly and openly degrading the Hispanic population. I learned from the readings that there have been many individuals from minority groups that have fought and died for the United States but do not receive the same recognition as Whites. This makes it seem that their sacrifice is deemed as less, almost making it seem like these individuals are not worthy enough to be part of history.
As someone who is Hispanic, the way my ethnic group is being devalued and the negative portrayal that exists makes it difficult to stand up against it because sometimes it seems like there’s no one who will listen to what we have to say about it. It seems that there are moments in which our cries for support and justice do not amount to anything because the ones in power do not acknowledge us- and even if they do, it’s just for a single moment.
What gives individuals the right to degrade and devalue others based on their ethnicity? What goes through the mind of individuals when they believe insulting others is acceptable? How can individuals challenge these beliefs within their own communities?