Arizona Rep. Rallies Against Climate Of Fear Facing Latinos

By Meagan Wiseley – University of New Mexico/Talk Radio News Service

Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.) delivered the keynote closing address of Hispanic Month at the Library of Congress Tuesday where he attacked the harsh tone the immigration debate has taken.

Grijalva said the “irrational fear” being targeted on Latino immigrants has led to a general fear of “those with perceived differences” such as language difference, skin color, culture or national origin. He believes these fears are the origin for an English-only movement in U.S. schools, a larger number of hate crimes against immigrants and a vigilante border situation.

“The fear and the hatred being generated against immigrants has a direct impact on all Latinos,” Grijalva warned.

Grijalva added, “when you hear the Glenn Becks and Lou Dobbs of the world … they’re building an America that so obviously has no room for tolerance for many other Americans.” He noted, “its a movement based on denial…it’s a movement based on exclusion.”

Grijalva also said the foundation of this immigration movement is education.

“I think that education continues to be the cornerstone, and that’s where the largest investment has to go”, Grijalva said.

The Arizona Democrat says he believes the successful future of the Latino community depends on legislators providing more educational opportunities.

“We have a responsibility to make sure the education system is responsive to all children”, Grijalva said.