Has anyone found this to be true since President Obama was elected?

[bhikkhu]

8. I think a lot of it is economic

I recall growing up in California and never really even being aware of prejudice against Hispanics. I went through school more or less oblivious - some of my friend's last names were Ramirez, Serrano, Garcia, and my first big crush's name was Robles. Years alter I recall thinking back and realizing they were Hispanic, and it made no difference whatsoever to anyone at the time.

It wasn't until the 80's that I heard any hate speech directed their way, and it coincided with a lot of economic changes and the stagnating of the economy as a whole under Reagan. It became socially acceptable to complain about people speaking spanish, and to blame them for poor wages and how hard it was to find a job. I do think when people are having a hard time, its easier for them to blame it on another race. When people are feeling marginalized themselves, making another group their inferior feels like giving themselves a leg up on the social ladder.