After presenting an overview of the history of the community college from the late 1800's to the present, and a discussion of the philosophic bases and accepted functions and purposes of the community college, this article presents a picture of Hispanic students in community and junior colleges in 1978. General demographic data on Hispanics in the United States are presented, focusing on age distribution, language and educational participation, and Hispanic professionals in post-secondary education. The section dealing with Hispanics in community and junior colleges considers enrollment trends, graduation rates, degrees awarded, and Hispanic faculty members. Subsequently, the reasons for the non-participation of Hispanics in the educational systems of this country are considered, concentrating on the changes that are needed in recruitment, admissions processes, student financial assistance, programs and services, and faculty and student support personnel in order to alter this pattern. Finally, recommendations are made for changes in federal policy related to bilingual education, financing developing institutions, affirmative action, Comprehensive Employment and Training Act programs, legislative assistance to predominantly Hispanic schools, and federal financial aid. (AYC)