At the dawn of the 21st century, Hispanic Americans became the largest minority group in the U.S. – but systemic challenges persist. In The Race Gap in the U.S. series, journalist Jason Motlagh reveals how border patrol practices and daily discrimination continue to shape lives from Texas to California.
Through interviews with activists, migrants, and retired law enforcement, the report uncovers a stark reality: Families fleeing poverty face militarized borders, while Hispanic residents describe routine profiling during traffic stops or workplace raids. One lawyer quoted calls it \"a cycle of fear that outlives policy changes.\"
Spotlight on border states:
- Migrants risk dangerous crossings for $10/day labor jobs
- Retired officers admit \"pressure to meet quotas\"
- Activists push for body cameras & community oversight
Despite growing political influence, many argue equality remains distant. As one advocate puts it: \"We built this country’s economy – now we need to rebuild its conscience.\"
Reference(s):
cgtn.com