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Hispanic men are redefining the idea of college education, with some considering vocational certifications as equivalent to higher education degrees. However, there are concerns about the impact of manual labor-intensive jobs on their bodies as they age, leading to limited advancement opportunities without additional education or skill sets. Hispanic men have a median age of 30.6, working in high-risk industries such as transportation and construction, which can result in a higher rate of fatal on-the-job injuries compared to other workers.
Some Hispanic men, like Jun Garza, are realizing the physical toll of their blue-collar jobs and are pursuing further education, such as earning a GED and obtaining certifications in fields like construction management. Others are starting their own businesses out of necessity, but face challenges in securing financing for growth and scalability. Despite some gains in health insurance coverage, homeownership, and wages under the Biden administration, Latino men are still grappling with high costs and frustrations about fulfilling the “American dream.”
To address these issues, there is a need for greater support for small-business owners, including access to resources like tax deductions, as well as investment in workforce development and infrastructure to help Hispanic men succeed in the changing economy. Ultimately, their votes in future elections may hinge on whether they feel valued and supported in their efforts to achieve economic stability and upward mobility.
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