Thread: Learning From Hispanic Americans (Lupe Moreno)

http://www.newsmax.com/archives/article ... 0737.shtml

One Reporter's Opinion: Learning From Hispanic Americans
George Putnam
Friday, Aug. 18, 2006
It is this reporter's opinion that we are long overdue in praising our fellow Americans of Hispanic heritage. Their voices have been all but drowned out by the sea of flags from south of the border that has caused many Americans to wonder, is their allegiance to America or to Mexico?

I can tell you from personal day-to-day experience that the Americans of Hispanic heritage believe in our government institutions, abide by the laws that have made our country the greatest in the world, that these patriots have a strong belief in the principles of freedom, individual liberties, the rule of law, and our democracy.

I offer a few examples.

The lady I have dubbed a "Latino Joan of Arc," my friend Lupe Moreno. Her father, a Mexican illegal, ran a smuggling operation and brought an untold number of illegals into the family home in Santa Ana, California. She told of her day-to-day experience of being abused, of being terrified by the illegals brought into her own family.

But Lupe moved beyond her painful childhood and began reading about America's history – a history she fell in love with. Lupe married. Then came the breaking point in her life. Her patriotism enraged her husband, an illegal from Mexico, and after an insufferable marriage, he divorced Lupe. He insisted she call herself "Mexican." "I would say, 'No, I am an American and proud of it.'"

Lupe charted a new course for her life, joined the Minutemen and now travels all over the country speaking out against the invasion of America.

Lupe cites the words of President Theodore Roosevelt, who said: "Loyalty to America comes first. There can be no divided allegiance. Any man who says he is an American but something else is not an American at all. We have room for but one flag – the American flag."

Take the case of Sam Antonio, the son of immigrant parents, who was born and raised in a border city. The issue really hits home with Sam; not only was he raised in an immigrant household, but he also attended school with, worked with, and befriended those who had come into this country illegally.

Sam says: "Radical elements are trying to steamroll the political system and balkanize America. America is unique because it draws its strength from diversity through unity – a nation comprised of individuals who speak different languages, practice different religions, and come from different cultures. But we are unified through our common language and common experience in a free society."

Sam says there are three steps every American must take: 1. Educate yourself. 2. Educate others. 3. Join a concerted action program with groups who share in patriotic American beliefs.

Most recently, I met Col. Al Rodriquez, a retired Army member of a family that has served in three of our wars. The colonel became fed up with watching media coverage of the mass protests on the streets of America. Rodriquez says: "The mob leaders were saying they were marching for immigrants' rights and a Latino-Hispanic movement. I thought to myself, 'Hey, those are illegal aliens, not immigrants! I'm of Hispanic ancestry, and those people are acting like they speak for me." And so his movement was born: YOU DON'T SPEAK FOR ME.

The colonel was infuriated when a mob of young hoodlums tore down the American flag at a local high school, replaced it with a Mexican flag, then ran up the shredded American flag UPSIDE DOWN. "When I witnessed the 'mobocracy' in the streets, the words were evident: socialism, communism, anarchy and Karl Marx. Enough is enough!" said the colonel. "You don't speak for me!"


The colonel invites you to join his group. Its principles are simple:

• All immigration should be legal. Illegal immigration hurts everyone. [/*:m:18wmmfxf]
• No illegal from any country should ever be rewarded with benefits or privileges. [/*:m:18wmmfxf]
• No amnesty, no way! Granting amnesty leads only to increased illegal immigration. [/*:m:18wmmfxf]
• Secure our borders! Build a high-security fence along our southern border. [/*:m:18wmmfxf]

Learn and speak English. It's the very least an immigrant can do. Learn the history of this country, the Constitution, and civics. Learn and practice the principles that have made America the greatest country in the world.
Add to this short list of Americans of Hispanic heritage Andy Ramirez, who has founded Friends of the Border Patrol. He is currently leading the battle for the two border guards, Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean, who are facing the possibility of 20 years in prison for apprehending an illegal drug smuggler. Their only crime was doing their job.

There you have it! Lupe Moreno, Sam Antonio, Col. Al Rodriquez, and Andy Ramirez – Americans of Hispanic heritage, proud to be red, white and blue Americans, citizens and spokespersons for the greatest country in the world.

All of these individuals speak from their own personal and family experiences; they've poured out their hearts and souls in support of the cause. Each is an example of why assimilation is so important. They know that if their children are to succeed in America, they must adopt the culture, learn to respect the laws and the flag, learn the language, and take pride in being an American.

I must say, the immigration debate is about more than deploying guards at the border, building bigger walls, and having guest worker programs. The debate really comes down to the matter of morality and the sense of privilege and honor that should accompany being an American citizen. These American-Hispanic heroes are shining examples for all immigrants who aspire to become American citizens.

Ya.....the good ones have been lumped in with the bad ones. Just wish they'd speak out more!!!!!

I love Lupe! She is awsome!!!

Lupe needs to go to Congress!

Nice job Lupe, you're the kind of American we want and need. I hope she reported her ex and had his worthless butt deported.