I'm an over 40, Hispanic male, married to an Anglo woman, well educated (Masters of Science degree) and supposedly living the good life. For over 40 years I have been fooling myself. I have played it "White" all these years, forgetting my heritage, my background and last but not least, my grandparents native tongue. I grew up in West Texas a "Pocho" - a term my parents used to describe Mexican-Americans. I graduated from college, joined the Navy as an Officer (stayed in for 11 years) and presently work for the Defense Department as a civilian. My "espanol" is proficient, but I do not feel as proficient as it used to be. My wife doesn't speak Spanish and my children, well forget it!!! That was my fault. I travel alot and was away during much of their childhood.
It's strange, I have been told by many "Gringos" over the years that my English is extremely good for being Hispanic (i.e. they hear no accent). On the other hand, when I speak Spanish, I've been told by many Hispanics that they were surprized that I could speak the language. They didn't think I knew how, because I spoke English "como muy americano". Talk about being caught between a rock and a hard place.
I DO NOT BELIEVE IN AN "ENGLISH ONLY" SOCIETY.
Hispanics need to maintain that connection to their backgrounds and cultures. We cannot let "White" America take that away from us!!!! We're Americans first and always will be. I love this country and think it's the greatest in the world, but what does America think of me and others like me. Racism and prejudice against minorities is alive and well in this wonderful country. I see it everyday now, I was just too blind before to see it. Keep the fires burning, I support this cause!
Federico Rene Diaz