Multicultural Division Vol. 1, Iss. 4

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When we hear the word “Hispanic” the tendency is
to think about “sombreros, tortillas, fiestas, ma-
riachis, and jalapeños.” While there is nothing
wrong with this immediate thought, this type
of assumption communicates that “all Hispanics are Mexicans.”
Even though this may appear like an innocent assumption, it is a
small example of the larger problem: the tendency to label and
stereotype Hispanics. In a society where multiculturalism is the
norm it can be very easy to stereotype Hispanics. The need for
this discussion has motivated everyone to be a part of an Empower-
ment Movement.
It is very important to value the cultural differences without
stereotyping. The first thing that tends to be mentioned in general
conversation with or about Hispanics is food, music, or culture.
However, the diversity within Hispanics is broader than what it
is generally assumed. Hispanics or Latinos come from different
countries in Central-South America, the Caribbean and Europe.
There are so many differences in food, culture, beliefs, values,
traditions, and customs that to generalize or stereotype is to over-
look the value of diversity.
Cultural origin and heritage is an important part of one’s
identity, and many people, including Hispanics, would feel of-
fended if they were stereotyped. Each Hispanic or Latino person
takes pride in his or her own country, heritage, and origin. We
should desire to honor the multicultural diversity and remove
common labels and stereotypes in order to help empower and
celebrate each culture.
According to the Census Bureau of 2012, Hispanics comprise
16.9% of the U.S. population.They are the fastest growing mi-
nority in the United States. The reality for Hispanics is that they
face the issue of stereotyping every day. In the news, Hispanics or
Latinos are being depicted as drug dealers, thieves, and members
of different cartels. And unfortunately, the influence of media in
society and public opinion is significant.
In reality, there are many honest, hard-working, and dedi-
cated Hispanic people that work hard to make a difference and to
contribute to the welfare of this country in many fields including
education, the armed forces, healthcare, business, religion, sports,
politics, and the arts. Despite what many stereotypes convey, not
every Hispanic is undocumented or an illegal immigrant, and not
every Hispanic is illiterate. These are stereotypes that we need to
Hispanics these labels create discouragement, frustra-
tion, and animosity because it limits the rest of the population
who are making a difference in this country.
These issues are not exclusive to Hispanics, but it is a reality
they face everyday. Depression, anxiety, immigration, and accul-
turation issues are some of the multiple stressors affecting Hispan-
ics as they try to live of integrity. While many are discouraged by
their ongoing struggles with language, education, discrimination,
harassment, or even human trafficking, the vast majority are try-
ing to breakthrough these challenges and create healthy lives and
live with dignity.
Many Hispanics have a great sense of resiliency, but others
are easily discouraged because the challenge, resistance, and op-
position are greater than the potential they think they have. These
challenges are easier to overcome if as a society we honor cultural
diversity and reject unhealthy and limiting labels and stereotypes,
instead replacing them with the truth of God’sWord and the af-
firmation of each individual’s potential.
So, what do we do? How can we help a growing minority in
the U.S. to overcome labels that lead to abuse, discouragement,
anxiety, depression, and on occasion, despair? The answer is
empowerment.
Here are some ideas to keep in mind as we become a more
culturally competent and sensitive society. Let’s empower Hispan-
ics by promoting:
• a message of being overcomers instead of victims
• education instead of simply working to survive
• resiliency instead of conforming to the labels that are
far from the truth of individual potential
• affirmation instead of criticism
• a sense value and honor in are different but
we are one body and we are all part of God’s Kingdom
(Romans 12).
Everyone is important in the Body of Christ. Let’s join together
in being empathetic, always providing a word of encouragement
and embracing one another in love as we help society to turn from
stereotyping to empowerment. “Gracious words are a honey-
comb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (Proverbs 16:24
NIV).
There is a well-known motivational phrase in Spanish that
says “Si, Se Puede!” In English, “Yes, It can be done!” The chal-
lenge may not be comfortable, easy, or well-accepted by every-
one, but “Yes, It can be done!” As we are all part of the Empower-
ment Movement, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the
proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians
6:9 NIV).
Zoricelis Davila, LPC, is a Licensed Profes-
sional Counselor with a private practice that
provides services to Hispanics in FortWorth,
Texas. She is a graduate of Southwestern
BaptistTheological Seminary with two Master’s
degrees in Marriage and Family Counseling
and Christian Education. She is the author of books targeting the
Hispanic/Latino population on the topics of family, single adult-
hood, and women’s emotions including: ¡No sé lo que me pasa!, Una
Familia PrevenidaVale por Dos, and Felizmente Solteros. She enjoys
working withWomen’s Ministries, traveling, reading, and enjoying
time with family and friends.
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul
and healing to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24 (NIV)