Fear of a Latin Planet

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Also, nip that division along dark/light complexions in the bud. Don’t think folks aren’t listening when, for instance, non-Dominicans call Dominicans 'the niggers of the Latin world,' or say that Mexicans are lowest on the Latin totem pole. In the mainstream’s eye, a nigger can be a spic, but all spics are niggers (you just got off the slave ships a little early).

My final piece of advice has to do with politics. In the event of a fight for civil or human rights in this country, don’t let the media pick your leaders. I bring up this point because when you become the largest minority group, things will prove to be interesting. With your numbers rising in states like California, the minorities (Latinos, blacks, and Asians) become the majority—and New York, Texas, and Florida are soon to follow. When the 'majority' starts to feel the squeeze, look out for the backlash and the slipping away of rights and services. After you start voicing your discontent, the media will pick a moderate figure from your group—someone who has no interest and no connection to your angst—to quote and put in the spotlight.

There you have it. I hope my suggestions are useful when you’re passed the scepter of 'majority minority' in 2005. These words, though they’re premature, should help ease you through a future you’ll spend maneuvering through that double-edged and fork-tongued acceptance by the mainstream.

When your day finally arrives, we’ll simply set a bigger place at the table and enjoy the company as we all keep white America guessing about who’s coming to dinner.

Yours truly,

Marcus Reeves

From TellSpin (Fall/Winter 2000). $3 per issue from Box 20187, Brooklyn, NY 11202 or e-mail: TellSpin@hotmail.com.

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