A Challenge to Democracy

In February of 2008, the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) advocated a change in media rhetoric for immigrants and Hispanic people.  In their “We Can Stop the Hate” campaign, they requested that the media “screen and reject” airing commentators and experts who speak openly for anti immigration and those linked to hate groups and the like.  This call for action against hate speech on major networks has been seen as a blow to America’s democratic right to freedom of speech.  What is not clear, however, is how far freedom of speech in a democratic society can go before the social responsibility of those within a democratic society must interject.  I believe that as much as we are allowed to speak freely, those in powerful positions must be held responsible to protect those living within a democratic society, even if that does mean to screen and reject what is aired to the public. 

            The NCLR’s motive behind the “We Can Stop the Hate Campaign” is to end hate crimes that they have proven to be connected to hate speech found in the media.  What the NCLR is trying to bring attention to is the fact that the hate rhetoric used by “anti-immigrant spokespeople” is seeping into the nightly news and ultimately and unconsciously into the way that the public views Hispanic immigrants.  I believe that in order to stop a nationwide “hate-epidemic” something needs to be done about what is aired to the public.  When we are being fed propaganda that we don’t even know about it is a problem that could one day challenge our integrity as a democratic nation. 

            It is important to monitor extremists who pass off myths as truths to vulnerable and naïve viewers.  This information begins to trickle down to a diluted version of the original message to make the public belief the Mexican immigrants are “invaders” who are coming in “swarms.”  These views have become common stereotypes that all began with the exposure of vigilantes on major networks.  Who knows what is to come next if nothing is done now.