Perception #2 - Latino Gangsters

From news reports to to memes online, Latinos have been portrayed as thugs and gangsters in the media. The most dangerous gangs such as Mara Salvatrucha, Latin Kings, Los Zetas, and the 18th Street Gang are the most notorious for being on the news for their violent crimes and being predominantly Latinos. Society has been primed by the media to refer to all Latino males as gang members who are cruel human beings and a threat to safety. People have been taught to fear latinos and would turn the other way if they were to see them on the street. The media shows what is news worthy and Latino citizens who go to college, receive white collar jobs, or do mundane things aren't as shocking as tragic gang related topics.

Gang members from the most dangerous gang in the world: Mara Salvatrucha

Photo taken from an article about the arrest of 32 gang members and seizing of police uniforms, weapons, and ammunition.

In popular comedies like 22 Jump Street, Latinos are displayed as being tough yet ignorant. These gang members are portrayed as low-class individuals who participate in drug dealings and criminal acts. These messages limit Latinos from numerous opportunities like gaining beneficial relationships and job offerings; creating a barrier from gaining respect and progressing in society.  

Clip from 22 Jump Street: Jonah Hill impersonates a gangster 

In Napoleon Dynamite, Pedro Sanchez runs for student body president and uses his gangster cousins to aid in his campaign. They ride up in the typical hydraulic fixed car, something related to the image of a gangster. The car shows how they spend their money on their image and adds to their intimidation factor. The way they dress and present themselves also gives off a harsh perception. 

Photo from Napoleon Dynamite: Pedro's gangster cousins 

The media has framed Latinos as dangerous people to stay away from. This one-sided story limits society itself and causes them to be ignorant of Latinos and their culture. The media provides shortcuts for society to perceive people or ideas. This is an example of why we can't rely on the media to inform us of the truth. They can change words, images, and content to influence their audience to perceive something the way they want them to.