Further, I spoke respectfully of my former co-workers with regard to qualities other than their hygiene standards. I also pointed out that American-born Latino co-workers shared the same criticism that I had.
Ever spent time in Mexico? It's different than America, in many ways delightful, in a few ways, less so. If I'm not mistaken, that's why many of them would prefer to come here.
You may believe that all cultures are equal, I don't.
Or, if you don't believe all cultures are equal, then aren't the areas of inequality up for legitmate inquiry or criticism?
Sounds like that "Of course I am not racist. Some of my best yard boys were Mexican."