Perception #2: Latino Single Story

The single story of Latinos often portrays men and women as immigrants pursuing the American dream. In film and other forms of media, Latinos are often depicted as trying to overcome effects of poverty and build a better life for their posterity. It appears that the only way these underdogs can break through the cycle is through success in athletics.

This first artifact is a meme depicting the Latino immigrant mentality that much of America holds: 

It is difficult to break this stereotype, but some portrayals of Latino pursuits of the American dream are more positive than others. Ironically, one of the main themes found in the 2015 Disney movie McFarland, USA is cross country. This film shows how success in athletics gives Latinos the chance for a better life.

However, this portrayal is limiting to consumers of media in that other options available in pursuit of success. We limit potential when success is restricted to just athletics. Dedicated teachers, such as Mr. Escalante in the 1988 film Stand and Deliver, can push past this limitation by encouraging academic focus and application.

Looking towards the future, The National Review referred to The Economist in an article entitled "Will the American Dream Hold True for Hispanics?" Michael Barone of The National Review wrote, “American’s Hispanics can be a national asset. But how much of an asset depends on whether they can be assimilated and encouraged to move upward as the Ellis Islanders were a century ago.” If the only way Latinos can progress is through success in athletics, then they continue limit themselves at a new level.