OPINION:
In 1903, my grandfather Prudencio Unanue — like millions of immigrants — embarked on a journey to America with a suitcase full of dreams. He opened a small grocery store in Manhattan, which he transformed into Goya Foods, the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the United States. This is a testament to the American dream, which flourished alongside the Hispanic community.
The Hispanic community is diverse yet united in our values: unwavering faith in God, love of family and a fierce work ethic. We cherish the freedom to worship, love and work in ways that give us purpose and drive. But the Biden administration’s policies have been detrimental to our community and values. Those on the left have stolen our chances of achieving the American dream with their failed policies. Their actions have disrespected our principles, stifled our businesses and endangered our children.
Inflation and government red tape have suffocated entrepreneurs and small businesses, the backbone of our economy. The administration’s use of the FBI to target traditional Catholics as potential threats is an affront to our religious freedoms. Moreover, Mr. Biden’s open border policies, under the guise of compassion and sanctuary, have facilitated criminal enterprises that disproportionately victimize HIspanics, particularly children.
Last year, Tara Lee Rodas, a whistleblower who worked at the Department of Health and Human Services, revealed that the United States had lost track of 85,000 children, victims of a large child trafficking operation. This staggering figure clearly indicates the administration’s many failures. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris, tasked with overseeing conditions at the southern border, has failed miserably in this effort.
Many Hispanics from Latin America fled countries where a select few exploit and control the many. Unfortunately, today’s Democratic Party seems to follow this path, prioritizing power over people. Their policies have exacerbated poverty, and their divisive rhetoric silences dissent, creating a chilling sense of deja vu for many in our community.
Jose Marti, a Cuban philosopher revered in Latin America, once said, “Mankind is composed of two sorts of men — those who love and create, and those who hate and destroy.” The Biden administration and its allies have shown contempt for opposing views and an unrelenting hatred for former President Donald Trump. Their radical policies are wrecking our economy and tearing our families apart.
In stark contrast, Mr. Trump loves America and understands the importance of building and creating. He recognizes that lasting prosperity is rooted in family, faith, hard work and freedom — not government handouts. His belief that we are blessed by God and that all things are possible through faith drives his commitment to Make America Great Again.
The Hispanic community, like many others, is at a crossroads. We must choose between the destructive policies of the current administration and Mr. Trump’s hopeful vision. The Biden administration has failed us, and it’s time for a change. We need a leader who respects our values, promotes economic growth, and ensures the safety and prosperity of our children and families.
As we move forward, let us remember the journey of my grandfather and millions of other immigrants who came to this country in search of a better life. Their dreams and hard work built the foundation of the American dream. It is our responsibility to preserve and protect this for future generations.
“America First” policies align with our values and aspirations. Their focus on family, faith, work and freedom resonates deeply in the Hispanic community. Under Mr. Trump’s leadership, we can restore the American dream and ensure that our children inherit a country that values their potential and respects their heritage.
The Hispanic community must unite in support of a leader who embodies and protects our values and freedoms and works tirelessly for our future. Let us stand together to reclaim the American dream and ensure that it remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for all.
• Bob Unanue is a member of the America First Policy Institute’s board and chairman of the Hispanic Leadership Coalition. He is president and chief executive officer of Goya Foods and Goya Cares and served as executive producer of the movie “Sound of Freedom.”
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