Bruin Republicans have learned well the politics of exclusion that operate among conservative Republicans at large; their willingness to place a negative spin on an organization that has consistently provided Latino students with a supportive network is, in a word, shameful. I participated in MEChA as an undergraduate (as an underrepresented Mexican American in higher education) and I credit the mentorship of progressive-minded faculty, staff and students participating in MEChA for my overall success in academia.
Underrepresented Americans are well aware of the backlash that comes from people of privilege when we, as historically oppressed people, begin to assert our right to political representation. Humanity is nothing if it is not about safeguarding the civil rights of all and defending “freedom for all.”
It’s truly shameful that some young Republicans would begrudge their Latino brothers and sisters continued access to one of the few programs in place that facilitate the participation of Latinos in higher education.
Perhaps it is precisely because MEChA has shown a capacity to elevate historically underrepresented Latino groups that Bruin Republicans find this organization objectionable.
The U.S. is a multicultural nation, and this demographic fact is becoming ever clearer to all who live within its borders. Thus, it is imperative that we all learn to peacefully coexist.
The UCLA campus is ripe with opportunities for students and faculty to work together ““ I know, I hold a Ph.D. from UCLA.
If you believe in freedom, then act in ways that empower all people to live freely. Maintaining a monopoly on resources (economic, educational and political) will only engender greater inequality and hostility among America’s diverse people.
Edna Molina is an assistant professor in the sociology department at UCLA.