Immigration has become a much-frayed issue and, instead of moving forward, it has worsened.

Thus, it is important to reflect on what Latinos may be failing in their struggle for an immigration reform.

The
proclamations made this week during his visit to Philadelphia by the
Archbishop of San Antonio, Monsignor José H. Gómez, also well known for
his efforts in favor of an immigration reform, are worth noting.

While
many are proud of the massive marches held two years ago, in which
Hispanics took the streets to demand an immigration reform, Monsignor
considers that such marches scared Americans.

"They saw them (the
immigrants), which they had not seen, and saw that they held another
flag, not that of the US, but rather that of Mexico, in their hands",
the priest said, and suggested that letters and emails be sent to the
White House or to the members of Congress, instead.

His criticism
of the Latin American countries that also lack a fair procedure for
immigrants is also interesting. "It is impossible to become a citizen
in Mexico", the Monterrey-born Archbishop stated. And he is right. This
week, a survey performed in 18 countries of the region evidences that
seven out of every ten Latin Americans are against non-nationals, poor
people and people of other races living in their country.
The poll
performed by the Andean Promotion Corporation (CAF for its initials in
Spanish) showed that only 24 percent are in favor of allowing
foreigners of the same racial or ethnic group as the nationals to live
in their country.

How can we Latin Americans make demands when we are not setting an example?
It
is not vain that Monsignor calls for the US to guide the process of an
immigration reform because "Latin America also needs to change".

Likewise,
the only Hispanic Archbishop in the US gave some advice to those
Americans who intend for Latinos to fully assimilate their culture:
"Impossible. The Anglo-American must acknowledge that the world has
changed. Globalization has resulted in the exchange of products,
finances and people", he assured. The perfect combination would be that
of a marriage in which each gives in a little to be able to cohabit.
"We have a lot in common. When there is communication, problems are
nonexistent", he concluded.

His words are worth analyzing for up to this point it is clear that the Hispanic Community has done something wrong.