In 1931, historian James Truslow defined the American Dream in his book “Epic of America,” saying that “The American Dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement”. But how alive is the American Dream more than 87 years later, in the current political and social landscape, particularly for the thousands of Hispanic immigrants that arrive in the United States aspiring to a better life?
According to the Hispanic Sentiment Study, just unveiled by the We Are All Human Foundation, most Hispanics believe that the American Dream is still alive but that it’s not what it once was, particularly the younger generation born in the US. These second and third generations of Hispanics are generally less optimistic than their parents, who were able to get a job, establish businesses or have access to education, opportunities that are increasingly difficult with all the ongoing immigration policies.
But not everything is lost. Even Hispanics don’t currently feel represented by current politicians or candidates, 66% do feel that their vote counts and there’s a strong belief that a Hispanic person will be elected President in their lifetimes. There we have some very powerful cases of Hispanics who have obtained powerful positions in politics, such as Sonia Sotomayor, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.
Business is also an important area of development for the Hispanic community in the US, and many are surprised to hear about the many accomplishments within this group. For example, in the last decade 86% of all new businesses in the US have been launched by Latinos, and Latinas create businesses six times faster than any other group in the US. Look around your community and you will definitely find at least one business founded by a Hispanic.
Education is another relevant issue for the Hispanic community. 78% of Hispanics feel that their own children would have access to quality education, whereas 90% felt their children were likely to advance to college.
But the real question is how to make the American Dream be as true as it once was, and the answer would be by making our decisions count on the ballots. There is no other way to make our voice be heard and change the future, so have your say and make your future a good one for you and your family.
Learn more about We Are All Human Foundation.
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