Tags:
Disclaimer:
"In this piece you will hear this term “Spanish-Speakers.” I use the term “Spanish-Speakers” as a term to describe many South and Central American countries, but it is important to note that this term is not received well from the community. When living in a world where everything offends everybody, you really can’t go right on terminology. Rather you use the terms Latino community or Hispanic community, you will receive some backlash one way or another. My intention is not to offend." As a licensed professional counselor who specializes in immigration evaluations, I have had the privilege of hearing countless personal stories from individuals across the Spanish-speaking world. These narratives reveal the complexities of identity, survival, and values that drive decision-making, especially when it comes to voting in the States. One of the most intriguing and misunderstood phenomena I’ve encountered is why some Spanish speakers choose to support US politicians who advocate for stricter immigration policies, including the deportation of individuals from countries similar to their own. At first glance, this decision might seem paradoxical. However, delving deeper into the psychological, cultural, and socioeconomic layers of these choices reveals a different cross-road of self-preservation, ideology, and hope for a better future. “Law and Order” Many immigrants, particularly those who have come to the U.S. legally or after horrible struggles, deeply value the concept of law and order. For them, supporting deportation policies isn’t about turning their backs on others but about reinforcing the systems they believe helped them achieve their dreams. These individuals often feel that adhering to the law was their pathway to success, and they may perceive others bypassing the legal process as undermining their own sacrifices. “I did it the right way, so can you.” From a psychological perspective, this aligns with what is known as JUST-WORD-THEORTY, the belief that hard work and obedience to rules lead to success. This worldview can influence a voter to support policies that reinforce this sense of fairness, even if those policies seem harsh toward others in similar circumstances. The political positions taken can often be subconscious. Differentiating “Us” from “Them” It’s important to understand that the term “Spanish speakers” encompasses a vast array of cultures, nationalities, and histories. While linguistic and cultural ties may exist, many people from Spanish-speaking countries identify more strongly with their own national origins. For example, someone from Mexico may not feel a strong connection to someone from Venezuela or El Salvador. This phenomenon, known as IN-GROUP OUT-GROUP BIAS, can lead to distinctions between “us” (those from one’s own nationality or legal status) and “them” (others who may be undocumented or from a different country). Supporting deportation policies may reflect a desire to protect their own community or family while viewing others as a potential threat to resources or opportunities. Self-Interests & Economic StabilitySome Spanish-speaking voters believe that stricter immigration enforcement will stabilize the economy, reduce competition for jobs, and create better opportunities for those already in the U.S. This belief can stem from a scarcity mindset, where people fear that resources are limited and must be preserved for those already within the system. Desire for Assimilation and Acceptance A surprising motivation is the desire to align with mainstream American values, including conservative ideals. By supporting strong immigration policies, some voters feel they are demonstrating loyalty to their adopted country, which they hope will lead to greater acceptance and success. Putting things into perspective, I know a family who grew up in a middle class neighborhood that was quite and what many would deem clean. The family’s origin is Mexican but they have lived in the country for more than 40 years. They have raised children and have retired in their adopted country (US). Over the years, they have assimilated or increasingly soaked in the American culture and values. At times, reflecting back on their original country of origin and those who come from their native land can be an eye-sore. They may look at them with disgust or shame with the mindset of, “They make us look bad.” As a counselor, I’ve learned that decisions made are rarely as simple as they appear. For Spanish speakers who support deportation policies, their decisions often stem from a combination of personal history, values, and their own experiences as immigrants. Understanding these motivations reminds us to approach these conversations with empathy and an open mind. People’s choices often reflect their deep desire for safety, stability, and belonging—universal human needs that transcend political ideologies. These conversations strike emotions from individuals and can bring out passionate perspectives. I recommend approaching emotionally charged issues with care, ensuring we fully understand the psychological factors driving human behavior before voicing our thoughts and concerns. This article was inspired by the latest updates to U.S. immigration policies and executive orders. - JereMy Rankins
0 Comments
|
About the AuthorFrom the desk of Jere'My. He delivers insight from his experiences unfiltered and raw. Comments are encouraged. Archives
February 2025
CategoriesFollow my Journey on LinkedIn
|
Services
|
M2MM2M is a Social Services Agency dedicated to serving minority communities with a specialty in at-risk-youth.
|