Blog Post Ten - “A Bone to Pick: Reflections of a Young Nicaraguan in the U.S.”

I have a bone to pick with the world, right now. As a 20-year-old Nicaraguan currently working a full time job in the education industry U.S., I've found myself navigating complex emotions and thoughts about the world, particularly concerning political and social issues. The recent political turmoil in Venezuela and the ongoing struggles in Nicaragua have deeply troubled me. As a young Republican, and dual citizen, I've also faced challenges in my workplace, where being conservative often leads to stigma and rejection. These experiences have led me to reflect on the values of respect, tradition, and acceptance—principles I hold dear but often see misunderstood or disregarded. Hear me out… 

The Pain of Political Corruption

Watching the situation in Venezuela unfold has been heartbreaking. The corruption and suffering there resonate deeply with me, not just as a concerned global citizen but as a Nicaraguan who sees echoes of similar issues in my homeland. Nicaragua, too, struggles with corruption and political instability, and it pains me to see our "sister country" enduring such hardships. These issues highlight a broader concern about governance and the importance of integrity in leadership—values that seem increasingly rare in today's world.

The suffering of the Venezuelan people is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of political corruption and authoritarianism. As someone who grew up in Nicaragua, I understand the fear and uncertainty that comes with living under such conditions. The struggle for basic rights and freedoms, the lack of trust in public institutions, and the daily hardships faced by ordinary citizens are realities that hit close to home. It’s disheartening to see these issues persist in both countries, casting a long shadow over the potential for progress and prosperity. Not only was Venezuela on the brink of a significant turning point towards freedom, but this glimmer of hope was extinguished when Maduro once again managed to secure his hold on power through corrupt means, reinforcing his authoritarian rule.

The Challenge of Being a Young Republican

In my professional life, I've encountered a unique set of challenges as a young Republican in an environment that leans left. There's a profound irony in experiencing exclusion in spaces that often advocate for inclusivity and acceptance. While the leftist movement champions welcoming everyone, my experience has sometimes been starkly different. I've found that expressing conservative views can lead to a profound sense of isolation, misunderstanding, and even hostility. It's disheartening and frustrating to feel that my beliefs are dismissed or ridiculed in places that pride themselves on being open and accepting.

A recent example that struck a deep emotional chord was during the Olympics, when a display was widely perceived as mocking Christianity. As someone who holds my faith dear, I found this deeply offensive and disrespectful. It wasn't just a personal affront; it raised a fundamental question about the values of our society: Who thought this would be respectful or appropriate? The incident felt like a stark contradiction to the message of acceptance and respect that is often preached. It left me questioning whether these values are truly upheld or if they are selectively applied. This experience has made me more aware of the complexities and sometimes painful realities of navigating a space that doesn't always feel welcoming to conservative viewpoints.

The Importance of Respect and Tradition

This leads me to a broader, more troubling question: Why are traditional values and respect often viewed negatively in certain circles? As a young Republican, I hold these values close to my heart, believing in the importance of upholding traditions and respecting diverse perspectives. This doesn't mean imposing my beliefs on others; rather, it's about living out my values authentically and expecting the same respect in return. Yet, I've noticed a growing sentiment that conservative views are inherently wrong or outdated, which I find both puzzling and disheartening. It's painful to feel that the values I cherish and the perspectives I hold are dismissed or ridiculed without genuine understanding or dialogue.

Adding to this frustration is the observation that many people, especially in my workplace, seem unaware or indifferent to serious global issues like the political crisis in Venezuela and Nicaragua. These are countries where people are struggling for basic freedoms and dignity, yet the focus often shifts to comparatively trivial matters, like defending drag queens mocking religion. It’s incredibly frustrating to see such a disconnect in priorities. While cultural and social issues are important, it feels disheartening and surreal when these concerns overshadow the dire realities faced by those in countries like mine.

At the core of my beliefs is the idea that respect should be mutual, that we can disagree without demeaning or marginalizing one another. It’s essential for all sides to listen and engage in good faith, even when we don't see eye to eye. This mutual respect is not just a nicety; it's fundamental to a healthy, functioning society. The erosion of this respect and the rising tendency to judge and alienate those with differing viewpoints deeply concerns me. It's a trend that threatens not only individual relationships but the fabric of our communities.

A Path Forward

Navigating these complex feelings as a young Nicaraguan in the U.S. has been challenging, yet it has also been a profound opportunity for growth and reflection. The political turmoil in Latin America, coupled with my experiences as a conservative in a predominantly leftist environment, has only strengthened my commitment to advocating for respect, understanding, and open dialogue. These aren't merely political stances; they are fundamental human values that I believe are crucial for building a more just and compassionate world.

It's important for me to write and share these thoughts with the world, not only to express my own experiences but also to offer a perspective that might resonate with others who feel similarly isolated or misunderstood. By sharing my words, I hope to foster greater understanding and encourage a more inclusive discourse—one that genuinely respects and embraces diversity of thought and belief. It's about creating a space where all voices can be heard and valued, where differences are seen as strengths rather than divides.

In doing so, I aim to help people relate to my story, feel a certain way, or learn something new about the challenges faced by those with different backgrounds and beliefs. It's the least I can do to contribute to a broader conversation about respect, empathy, and mutual understanding in a world that often seems divided. By promoting this kind of engagement, we can work towards a society that honors the dignity of every individual, regardless of their political or personal beliefs. That’s all. Bye for now!