Discrimination against Latino and Hispanic Immigrants What would it be like to wake up every day knowing that you would be bullied, mistreated, and/or abused just because of where you were born? Discrimination still exists! “Discrimination remains, and there is an increase in hate crimes against Hispanics, Latinos, and Mexican-Americans, as one of the perceived symbols of that discrimination, the U.S.-Mexico border fence, nears completion. Instead of uniting in these difficult times, we may see greater polarization of attitudes” (Gibson). But why are hate crimes against Latino and Hispanic foreigners on the rise, and what types of discrimination are occurring against them? The understanding of violence against Hispanic and Latino foreigners is divided into three main classes; the difference between legal and illegal aliens, attacks and effects, and different people's views towards aliens. “Immigration is the term used to describe the action and process by which a citizen of one country moves to another country after petitioning for residency in that country.” (Martinez). An immigrant, also known as foreigner, is a person or people who come from a foreign country. Foreigners are divided into two main categories: legal foreigners and illegal foreigners , aliens have the opportunity to become legal by having a green card or by becoming an American citizen and having dual citizenship. Green card holders are permanent residents who have been authorized to live and work legally in the United States but are not American citizens. To become a citizen you must be legal, speak fluent English, have a clean record and do your job” (immigration page 63). Hispanics react by commenting on how “they take jobs that Americans don't want”. Hispanics say they come here to have a better life for their family, for themselves and for a job. Americans say Hispanics are criminals, drug dealers, etc. and they should stay in their country. Yes, it's true that Hispanics are usually part of gangs; go to prison, do drugs, etc. But Hispanics say they start doing this kind of thing because they don't have money to take care of their family, so they usually do everything to make sure their children have a good life. The different POV topics are endless. Discrimination still exists in our world. People are mistreated, bullied, mistreated, etc. because where they are born is a serious issue that needs to be changed. Characteristics and personality are what people should see in a person, not their appearance.