Immigration, Katrina, and the Power of Voting

Rev. Timothy McDonald, III recently gave the break down of why Immigration issues are important to the African American communities. "Imagine the coming together of resources, skills, intellect, and determination to create a more open and inclusive America."

IMMIGRATION & KATRINA: THE CONNECTIONS

All across the nation, demonstrations are being held to address the rights of immigrants. People on all sides are discussing the issues of legalities and fairness. Many African Americans are buying into the notion that immigrants are the enemies. Unfortunately, many of us do not see or even want the see the connections between what is happening with immigrants rights and disenfranchisement in New Orleans.
Why is it that both democrats and republicans are running over themselves attempting to get a heads up with Hispanics and Latinos? What these demonstrations have shown us is that this is as much about political power as it is about immigrant rights. Both Democrats and Republicans understand the voting strength of the Hispanic bloc.
On the other hand, both the Democrats and the Republicans also understand the significant of the Black vote in New Orleans, and this is why this administration has ordered that the elections be held on April 22nd. Hispanics and African American need to understand that we have far more in common at this point, than we have that is different. The powerful are doing their best to pit one group against the other by using false claims of jobs and services. The reality is that immigrants buy houses, automobiles, furniture, milk and bread and pay taxes on these items just like the rest of America. Although there are serious challenges in the African American communities, one would be mistaken to blame these on our immigrant brothers and sisters.
Imagine if Hispanics and Blacks voted together as a political bloc. Imagine a collective common strategy and agenda to further the cause of both groups. Imagine the coming together of resources, skills, intellect, and determination to create a more open and inclusive America.
During this time of crisis among our Hispanic brothers and sisters, and the current situation in the New Orleans elections, let us not lose sight of who is really calling the shots. May we not become victims of our own prejudices and bigotries. May we not succumb to our false fears of each other, but create bridges of mutual respect and collaborations with each other.