I am a Hispanic American, U.S. Air Force veteran, Christian, business owner, father, and husband. I grew up poor, raised by a single parent, and lived with my grandparents, aunts, and uncles in the barrio. My family worked in the Mexican restaurant business, serving barbacoa, carnitas, menudo, tamales, and fresh corn tortillas. I know my heritage intimately.
Despite my deep-rooted Hispanic identity, I have encountered criticism from some within my community who believe I’ve lost my way, as if I’ve abandoned my roots. These critics often say I seek acceptance from "the white man," or they poke fun at my name, Duke, suggesting it proves I want to be white. This mindset reflects a troubling confusion; they misinterpret my ambition and desire for success as an abandonment of my culture. It’s disheartening to see that, in today’s world, striving for achievement is equated by some with selling out.
But here’s the truth: this behavior exemplifies the old "crab in a bucket" theory. When one crab begins to climb out toward freedom, the others pull it back down. In our Hispanic community, too many crabs are quick to drag down those who strive for advancement. Rather than supporting fellow Latinos, they resort to belittling and insulting others to feel better about their own circumstances.
Success is not defined by color or race; it is a universal aspiration. It’s time we recognize the disgraceful dynamic that plays out within our community. Instead of uplifting one another and encouraging progress, many choose to pull others down. We all know that misery loves company.
Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered far more derision from some Latino Democrats than I have from Republicans. It appears some take pride in knocking down fellow Latinos, reveling in their efforts to belittle others.
Yet, I find comfort in the wisdom of the Psalms, which reminds us that deceivers will be caught in their own traps and snares. Those who seek to undermine others will ultimately face the consequences of their actions. The crabs will be dealt with in due time, and I refuse to let their negativity affect me.
I write this to shed light on the issues facing Hispanic Republicans—not from so-called racist whites, but from within our own community. Those who attack and undermine us are disgruntled and irrelevant. Their movement of extortion has failed, and the Hispanic community has long rejected their divisive tactics. They offer no solutions and are unwilling to engage in constructive dialogue.
For those like me, the best response is to laugh and let their words roll off our backs. We are more than just insults; we are a community that deserves to thrive.
Duke Machado
Hispanic Republicans of McLennan County
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