Since 1823 when President James Monroe famously warned Europe about interfering in the new world, the United States has taken a particular interest in the Western Hemisphere. Sometimes this intervention is aimed directly at benefiting the Latin American nations involved, but frequently the United States has interfered solely to further its own interests. Whether combating communism, protecting agriculture interests or escalating the ‘War on Drugs’ the United States has seen Latin America as a venue in which to promote its own agenda.
Congressman Serrano believes that we should strive to change this historical pattern and work with the countries of Latin America, not merely work in their countries for our own interests. He thinks that it is important to allow the people in Latin America the latitude to direct their own affairs and that when they need our help we should work together so they can take the steps they need to become more successful. Too often in Latin America we have supported governments when they agree with us rather than supporting legitimate governments, whether or not they agree with us on particular points of policy.
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