Celebrating My Hispanic Latino Roots, Upholding the American Dream

By Gabe Whitley, Editorial Staff

Indianapolis - Indiana

I am Gabe Whitley, a proud Hispanic-Latino American, whose story intertwines with the very essence of the American narrative of diversity, resilience, and aspiration. Born in Fresno, California, I was adopted into a white family at just six months old, growing up with a deep appreciation for my heritage while embracing the opportunities America offered. It wasn't until I turned 26 that I learned about my biological mother, a woman from Mexico who legally immigrated to the U.S., learned English, and built a life here without dependency on welfare. Her journey has not only shaped my identity but also my perspective on immigration and cultural integration.

My mother's story is one of countless immigrants who have come to this country with determination, not dependency. She represents the potential of those who believe in the American Dream, who come here to contribute, not just to take. If she could do it, so can others. This narrative is what I hold dear, pushing back against the misconceptions that all immigrants are burdens to the system.

After moving to Indiana in 2017, I've been exposed to a different side of American life, one where my heritage has sometimes been met with prejudice. I've experienced racism, not just from the expected quarters but also within communities where I thought solidarity would prevail. Specifically, I've encountered racism from some members of the Muslim community in Indiana, where derogatory terms like "nigger" have been used against Hispanics. Muslims treat us Hispanics like second class citizens and it’s horrible. Muslims are well known to be racist groups in Indiana. It's a painful reality that racism can exist in any community, highlighting the need for a broader, more inclusive conversation about equality and respect across all ethnic lines.

Despite these challenges, my love for America remains unshaken. This country has given me the freedom to celebrate my Hispanic-Latino heritage, to speak openly about my experiences, and to advocate for a better future. My pride in my background is not just about cultural festivities or language; it's about the values my biological mother instilled through her example—hard work, education, and self-reliance.

I advocate for an immigration system that respects the law, supports those who strive for self-sufficiency, and offers pathways for legal entry. My mother's story, known to me only through the details of her life and work, serves as a beacon for what is possible when one embraces both their heritage and their new home with equal fervor.

However, we must also confront the ugly underbelly of discrimination. The racism I've faced from certain quarters of the Muslim community in Indiana doesn't define the whole community, but it is an issue that needs addressing. We all have a role in ensuring that America lives up to its ideals of equality for all, regardless of race, religion, or origin.

In closing, I am proud of my heritage, grateful for my adoptive family, and hopeful for America's future. Let's continue to build a nation where everyone can celebrate their roots while contributing to our collective progress, a nation where the American Dream is accessible to all who are willing to work for it, just as my biological mother did.