I often tell my girlfriend, who is from El Salvador, that I am a true Latin because my family is from Italy. Of course the reason being Italian isn't considered a "minority" status is because they emigrated to America en masse to America just a little too soon. If Italians came here in the 1960's, we'd be card-carrying minorities with all of the benefits. I guess we missed the gravy train.
Italians NEVER miss the gravy train--they've got it ALL--the most beautiful country, the best music, the best art, SOME of the best literature, the best food . . . it doesn't get any better. All they need (over there!) is jobs . . .
My ancestors were equally dopy. They came over from Ireland during the potato famine of 1845-6. Since there was no affirmative action program then, they got jobs and went to school and became self-supporting citizens. They also assimilated and became proud of being Americans. I'm so embarrassed.