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"The Negro must build on his own basis apart from the white man’s foundation if he ever hopes to be a master builder"

- Marcus Mosiah

African Americans needed to build their own communities to succeed. Relying on systems made by others often held them back. By creating their own schools, businesses, and neighborhoods, they could feel proud and independent. This way, they could grow stronger and be recognized for their achievements. The fear of being continually oppressed and marginalized drove the need for self-dignity and unity, as they wanted to create a safer and more secure environment for their families and future generations.

PICRYL

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"What I would like to know is this: how can a bank take our money and get by while an old couple have to let their house go?"

- Letter to FDR from a 13-year-old boy

During the Great Depression, banks failed, causing many to lose their savings and homes. The crisis fueled fear and frustration as families struggled with financial insecurity and felt helpless in the face of bank collapses. The sense of injustice was widespread, highlighting the difficulties of an unstable economy.

ITOLDYA

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"Us people has got to stick together to get by these hard times."

-Large migration family

In those tough times, fear and uncertainty were common. Staying together helped provide security and strength. Unity made it easier to share resources and support each other emotionally. The movie "Cinderella Man" showcases this resilience, showing how boxer James Braddock, with his family by his side, overcame the struggles of the Great Depression. The film highlights the power of family and determination during hardship, making it an inspiring watch. Even though James Braddock's family was not forced to migrate, they faced rough moments and also considered giving their kids away until the were more economically stable. The movie perfectly captures how strong and resilient families had to be to overcome such a hard time.

JSTOR

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"Why does Every Thing have Exceptional Value. Except the Human being?"

- Anonymous letter to Hebert Hoover, 1930

In those times, many people felt worthless and lost in a world that seemed to care about everything except about human life. Fear was always present, as they faced economic hardships and a deep identity crisis. The constant chase for material wealth left them feeling dehumanized and ignored. This lack of recognition and belonging made their fear and helplessness worse, creating a strong need for validation and purpose when it was greatly missing.

GHIPHY

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"As a result of the depression, by early 1930 a change had began to take place in the Anglo-American stereotype of Mexicans, at least in the SouthWest. Many Angelos in the SouthWest considered Mexican as a foreign, short-term laborer, who had no rights to welfare benefits. They thought the answer was ridiculously simple: send Mexicans back to Mexico. Many repatriated Mexicans had been living in the United States for decades and had children who were United States citizens by birth, who  therefore could not be legally departed. The surprising aspect of repatriation is that very few Americans spoke out in defense of the constitutional rights of their fellow citizens, and a majority condoned these repartition programs."

- From The Chicanos: A History of Mexican Americans

Mexican immigrants in the Southwest faced harsh conditions and widespread discrimination. Many were repatriated, despite having lived in the U.S. for decades and having American-born children. This forced relocation created a deep sense of injustice and identity crisis, as families were torn apart and communities disrupted. The need for identity and belonging became even more pressing amidst these challenging circumstances.

YouTube

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Mexican American Repatriation in the Great Depression

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"If they come to take my farm, I’m going to fight. I’d rather be killed outright than die by starvation. But before I die, I’m going to set fire to my crops, I’m going to burn my house, I’m going to p’izen my cattle."

- Debt-ridden farmer, in This Fabulous Century

During the Great Depression, farmers faced extreme hardship. Overwhelmed by debt, many preferred to destroy their crops and livestock rather than see them taken. This desperation highlighted their struggle for survival and dignity in a time of economic despair.

Library of Congress

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"Their hunger was in their eyes, and their need was in their eyes."

- From The Grapes of Wrath

During the Great Depression, hunger intensified fear and desperation. The lack of food made daily life even harder, deepening the struggles of many families. The pervasive hunger and need made the economic hardships even more unbearable.

DailyMagazine

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"When they need us they call us migrants. When we’ve picked their crops were bums and we've got to get out."

- Migratory worker, in This Fabulous Century

In the 1930s, migrant laborers were essential for harvesting crops, yet they were often undervalued and dismissed once their work was done. They faced harsh conditions, discrimination, and a lack of recognition. This constant cycle of labor and dismissal led to a profound loss of identity and belonging, as they were seen as mere tools rather than individuals. Their contributions were vital, but their need for dignity and identity was often ignored.

ITOLDYA