Emotion in Motion

 

 As Latinos, we are a very intricate, diverse group. Even though in the U.S. we are considered “one group”, people seem to forget we come from different countries or ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, we cannot state that we are all the same, even if we share a country of origin – while I ask for a refresco, my good friend born and raised in the northern part of my home country request a soda.

 

However, even though we have our own distinct cultural differences, I think most Latinos share one thing that unites us: an undeniably strong passion for what we believe in. We will go above and beyond to defend values that we find important.

 

Even though being passionate can a very positive quality to possess, it seems recent happenings affecting our community might be bringing out emotions that passionately explode in what could be perceived as a negative.

 

With the infamous SB 1070 immigration law signed in Arizona, hundreds of thousands have gone to the streets to express their discontent, many are utilizing social media in our attempt to create awareness, the state is being boycotted by organizations and other states, and the list of actions taken could go on for pages. Many people from all backgrounds in Arizona and around the country are outraged, hurt and in disbelief of what has been occurring in the state. And we want to be heard.

 

Our passion to defend the rights of our community is palpable, you can feel it while having carne asada at the neighborhood taco shop, you can see it on the streets and online, and you can hear it in the words of many. However, sometimes it is disheartening when our passion seems to take a negative turn and becomes borderline hatred to others. Emotions are right on the surface and sometimes we engage in conversations that are not as civil as they could be, even amongst ourselves. Living in Arizona, it is definitely hard to try not to get emotional about the issue of immigration, and more than once, I’ve had to stop myself and rethink my words to avoid entering into a lose-lose situation where the discussion turns sour.

 

In these difficult times, I believe it is important to utilize our passion to create civil dialogue and be determined to not let others get the best out of us. We can apply our passion to educate others on the issues at hand, we can use that energy to create awareness and promote respect. We can use our passion to affect long-term, positive changes for our communities, no matter if you are in Arizona, NY, Florida or anywhere else.

 

Passion unites us as Latinos. Let’s use it to also unite us with others.

 

www.facebook.com/MyLatinoVoteAZ

by Ixchel del Castillo