Sense Of Safety Among Latino Residents Of New York.

A majority of Latino residents feel secure in New York despite the terrorist attacks and threat of anthrax, according to a research study conducted by Access Worldwide Communications, Inc.

The study is the second in a series of research initiatives that assess the attitudes, beliefs and opinions of Latinos on current events, including the terrorist attacks of September 11, Anthrax contamination and slow-down in the nation’s economy. The study included 300 telephone interviews completed in Spanish or English with Latinos located in the demographic area surrounding New York City from October 25-31. Among the many findings, the study included the following results:

* Despite the attacks and uncertainties, Latinos feel safe in New York. Three out of four Latino respondents agreed with the statement, “I feel secure and safe in New York.” Furthermore, approximately four out of five participants continue to feel safer in the United States than any other country.

* Latinos are experiencing a strong sense of patriotism regardless of their country of origin. Nine out of ten respondents agreed strongly that they are proud to be an American, even though only 14% were born in the United States. Ninety-one percent of respondents agreed strongly that the United States is their home. The average length of time living in the country was 16 years.

* The terrorist attacks took a personal toll on Latinos. Thirty percent of survey respondents know someone hurt, killed or missing from the September 11 attacks.

* Latinos are turning to family, friends and religion for comfort. Sixty- two percent of study respondents stated that they feel closer to their family and friends and the same proportion noted that they have felt more religious after September 11.

* Mayor Rudolph Giuliani is receiving high marks from the Latino population. Of the study participants, 89% agreed that overall Mayor Giuliani has been a good leader for New York.

* President Bush is also receiving a high approval rating. Like Mayor Giuliani, Latinos believe that President Bush has acted appropriately in handling the war against terrorism. Eighty-five percent of respondents believe that President Bush is responding in an excellent manner.

* Latinos have mixed reactions regarding the bombardment of Afghanistan. Fifty-two percent of participants stated that the military activities in Afghanistan are fair. Only 24% felt strongly that the bombing was unfair.

* Travel plans have been curtailed following the attacks. One fourth of Latino respondents said that they plan to travel less over the next several months. Furthermore, 30% reported that they would feel uncomfortable flying next to someone with an Arabic or Middle Eastern appearance.

* Latinos are concerned about their jobs; however, they feel secure about the nation’s economy. Of those respondents that were employed prior to the attacks, nearly one in ten has lost their job since September 11. Of those still holding their positions, 44% are worried about losing their jobs. Despite the nation’s economic downturn, 64% feel secure about the country’s economy and 78% feel comfortable having their money in American banks or credit unions at this time.

“In New York City alone there are 2.2 million Latino residents, accounting for 27% of the city’s total population,” commented David Morse, Senior Vice President of Access Worldwide and Chief Operating Officer of Access Worldwide’s Cultural Access Group. “The study clearly shows that a substantial number of Latino New Yorkers have a sense of security in this country; however, 47% of respondents think Congress should pass legislation giving greater latitude to the FBI and other investigating authorities, even at the expense of our civil liberties.”

For more information at http://www.accesscag.com

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