In our last blog we talked about Hispanic Heritage Month and all the things we should celebrate about our Latino roots. But I believe part of that pride should include recognizing the struggles that our community is going through.

There is nothing new about undocumented immigrants struggling with different issues, or students fighting for their right to get an education and fulfill their professional vocations. One of the latest aggressions against the immigrant community comes from the state of Alabama, where a judge ruled in favor of allowing state and local police to ask for immigration papers at routine traffic stops and requiring schools to check the immigration status of children during registration.

According to the news, as soon as this ruling was approved, families started disappearing and leaving everything behind. House, possessions, pets, connections and taking only what they could carry. No one knows where they went, and likely, not even they themselves know where they are going. It’s a sad reality.

Another effect of the new law impacted children and youth directly. Upon the judge’s decision, Hispanic students started disappearing from public schools for fear of being detained or putting their undocumented parents in jeopardy.

Large amounts of Hispanic students were absent from school the next morning. Some staying home, others leaving the state, but all being victims of a broken system that most times forgets the human impact of the law.

Up to date, a good percentage of the students have withdrawn or left school and lots of families have left Alabama. Our community needs children and young people that are, confident, educated, and fostered, not traumatized and victimized. In a time when our growing community depends on our younger, more educated generations, we cannot allow for these laws to pass and remain silent.

So in continuing with reflection upon our pride and heritage, let’s take on the other side of the coin and also fight for what is right and fair. Continue to participate in community organizations and allies, or find a place to volunteer and be part of. If you are in a position to help others, especially younger students and children, do so. And continue helping yourself by doing the right thing for you and for those who need your support.

Yesterday it was Arizona, today it’s Alabama, and tomorrow it may be your state. But let’s show that Hispanic heritage is more than a month, it’s a lifetime, a lifetime of fighting and protecting those more vulnerable within our Hispanic community.