Overview

Latinos, born in the U.S. and immigrants, are the backbone of our country, as they have contributed to its economic wealth and prosperity. They are the primary group that feeds America. However, they are often discriminated against and have received harsh scrutiny on numerous accounts. Undocumented labor workers also receive minimal to no protection or rights. We need to begin an initiative to become educated on Latinos’ integral role in our society–how they impact our daily lives, boost our economy, and create a culturally rich, diverse, and talented populace. More importantly, we must understand and comprehend the minimal rights that such an underrepresented group needs.

With the ultimate goal of understanding their struggle, hard work, and achievements under seemingly impossible odds, we can create a more open-minded, just, and inclusive future and healthier country. We acknowledge that Latinos are the foundation of our nation. They work as farmers, cleaners, lawyers, medical professionals, nurses, waiters, cashiers, and many more occupations.

We also acknowledge that different individuals have different perspectives on them as a result of myths that characterize them as criminals, a burden on the system, and ironically—those who steal American jobs. More than anything, we want to highlight the strength of Latinos in the United States. This is just one lens to view the challenges they overcome, yet their resilience is undeniable. Latino workers have proven to be essential(Reflection on Essential Workers - pandemics, healthcare, construction). All of America should value them as critical contributors to the US and defend them against racial profiling and discrimination. We can all take something from understanding their narratives and recognizing just how far the Latinos go to impact our country.