Perhaps that is because South and Central America were converted by the Portuguese and Spanish, and it is people from one of those locations (Mexico)that make up the majority of illegal immigrants?
Grasp at straws and grab whatever gains sympathy? Hey umm..they are predominantly Catholic, so all catholic Americans should support them. Yeah sure.
The Jews were persecuted heavily throughout the world many times over in history. They make up a small percent of the total population in America, yet disproportionaly hold many positions of power they have earned by rising through the ranks and being successful through sacrifice. You do not hear them complaining or trying to gain sympathy in American politics even though they are definately a minority.
Arguably they are quite prejudice themselves, sticking together closely as a community, and having a unique culture most outsiders are kept out of. I have known some that were entirely banished from thier families, and no longer considered a part of the family for marrying non-jews.
However I am sure they will just be lumped into the "white" catagory like most other American settlers because they are successful and don't wish to be seen as persecuted to gain handouts, because they are already doing quite well of thier own accord.
Irish were persecuted in America as they were immigrating (legaly) and banding together in a unique culture. They were not a majority of immigrants, but stood out in people's minds at the time because they formed a very distinct community that threatened other Americans. However as they applied themselves and many new types of immigrants came to America, and Irish Immigration virtualy stopped, they suddenly found themselves in charge of the newest Immigrant groups of Italian and Slavic people. So they assimilated into mainstream America and no longer were seperate, and instead became "white".
However this will not happen with Hispanic/Latinos because there is no future stop of Hispanic/Latino immigration, and a large immigration of others. It is mainly Mexicans/Latinos, with all future indications pointing to the same thing down the road. So they remain united, distinct, and seperate.
Hispanics could easily be classed as white and join the rank and file of other Americans, giving up any special 'minority' status and percieved persecution if they wished to apply and integrate. Italians, especialy Sicilians look very much like Mexicans, partialy because Sicily was conquered and changed hands so many times that it is a huge mixing pot just like Mexico. Yet they are considered "White". Spaniards from Spain are "white". However Chicanos are very ethnicly sensitive and racist so that is not going to happen. If a hispanic candidate runs for office against a non hispanic, regardless of policies, the hispanic community largely votes for the hispanic. We know it, politicians know it. Is that not racist? When speaking in Spanish and reminding constituents of your heritage is more important and gets bigger cheers than the policies spoken of, does that not show the politicians know it?
