"I am a firm believer in education and have worked very hard to tell young Latinos that they must go to college and that, if possible, they should pursue an advanced degree. I am convinced that education is the great equalizer"

Jimmy Smits emphasizes the transformative power of education, particularly for young Latinos. He underscores his unwavering support for the pursuit of education and highlights his dedication to encouraging the next generation to attend college and consider advanced degrees. This message resonates deeply within communities where access to higher education has historically been limited or laden with barriers, especially among minority populations.

Smits draws attention to the idea that education does not merely confer knowledge but acts as a powerful social force, an "equalizer" that can bridge gaps of opportunity, break cycles of poverty, and dismantle systemic inequalities. By advocating for college and beyond, he suggests that academic achievements become a platform from which marginalized communities can rise, compete, and contribute on equal footing in society.

His viewpoint also invokes a sense of responsibility: those who have achieved some success, such as himself, feel compelled to give back and light the path for others, especially for those who might doubt their potential or lack role models. For Latino youth, such encouragement can have profound effects, gradually shifting cultural expectations and family aspirations, inspiring more to dream of possibilities outside traditional limitations.

Moreover, stressing "if possible" when referencing advanced degrees acknowledges the real-world obstacles many face, such as financial hardship, lack of access, or social pressure. Smits does not insist it is easy or universally accessible, but makes the aspirational case that every step forward in education is worth pursuing. By doing so, he frames education not as an elitist privilege, but as a necessary tool for empowerment, a force capable of enabling everyone, regardless of background, to shape their own futures, fully participate in society, and help redefine the status quo. Through his advocacy, he calls for the collective upliftment of the Latino community, believing that every success story adds to the strength and progress of the community as a whole.