The danger of derailed dreams

A just-released USC pollshows a disturbing difference between Latinos and Non-Hispanic Whites: 
79% ofLatinos favor the recently enacted California Dream Act. Meanwhile, only 30% ofNon-Hispanic Whites favor the law which would give undocumented students whohave graduated from California high schools equal footing in qualifying forin-state college tuition rates.   
The poll results are troubling for tworeasons.
First, it shows the political chasmbetween Latino and mainstream communities growing wider. Widespread support forlaws like Arizona's infamous SB1070 and similar measures enacted in Georgia,Alabama and on the docket in other states have already been a source of discordthat has alienated many Latinos. The lack of support for the California Dream Act, which most Latinos seeas a fair and sensible first step toward immigration reform, will only increasethe perception that prejudice is the prime motive behind these attitudes.
Second, and perhaps more ominous, isthe increasing alienation of the fastest growing age group among the fastestgrowing ethnic group: Latino youth.
What happens when a generation ofintelligent, motivated young people find themselves marginalized and theirpotential stunted by societal forces? A look around the world – and at history –indicates that a very likely outcome is social upheaval including protests,rioting and even open rebellion. For proof, one only need look at this year's Arab Spring, therecent riots in England and France, China'sdemocracy movement culminatingin Tiananmen Square, the overthrow of the Shah of Iran, and Castro's revolution in Cuba. In all of these rebellions and many others, disillusioned youngpeople have the spark and fuel for turmoil.
But I will not simply point the finger at the mainstreamcommunity and say "get over your prejudices." That answer is too simple – and ultimatelyineffective.
We in the Latino community must do a better job of framingthis debate. Our public message must emphasize the economic benefit ofeducating the best and the brightest. We all gain when motivated young people are allowed to flower into their full potential. It will mean more prosperousworkers paying more in taxes and fueling consumer demand, more entrepreneurscreating jobs and fewer demands on our social services. Xavier University student Bernard Pastor is one example of the exemplary leadership these young people can bring if given the chance. 
In contrast, denying equalopportunities to these young people who have committed no crimes will hurt all of us.
I wrote America Libreand House Divided as a warning to thepotential of an ethnic conflict in the United States. The trends were areseeing today make me fear my cautionary tale may be prophetic instead.
Let's make a smart choice. Let's choose to help these youngpeople – and also help ourselves. The Dream Act deserves your support.
RaulRamos y Sanchez


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