Informed Opinions on Today’s Topics : Unity a Lasting Legacy of Cinco de Mayo

Since the 1960s, when Latino activists struggling to obtain civil rights for their people sought an emblem to signify the spirit of their efforts, Cinco de Mayo has been a holiday in which those of Mexican descent have gathered to celebrate their heritage.

They also rejoice over the resilience historically shown by Mexicans against seemingly insurmountable odds.

The holiday, which commemorates the May 5, 1862, victory of a ragtag battery of Mexican fighters over the imperialist French troops of Napoleon III, has served as an affirmation of identity to Mexican Americans, and as a reminder that the strength of the Mexican character lies in unity.

It was a minor setback for the French because Napoleon eventually was able to conquer Mexico. But to Mexicans, the victory was a rallying point to unity, and two years later they overthrew the French.

Recent events, however, such as the passage of Proposition 187, the Chiapas revolution and the crumbling of Mexico’s once surging economy have brought the issue of “identity” into question for some Mexican Americans.

Proposition 187 sparked heated debates at many Mexican American dinner tables and led many to reflect on what it was like to be an American of immigrant heritage.

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In light of recent events affecting California’s Mexican American community, what is the significance of Cinco de Mayo?

Los Angeles City Councilman Richard Alarcon:

“It’s still significant because it represents the victory of the underdog. Cinco de Mayo is a rallying cry to those who have limited resources to overcome and prevail. In light of Proposition 187, it is as well a rallying cry to many Mexican nationals that reside in this country to become citizens and take advantage of the opportunities citizenship affords to them. We have both a Mexican and an American heritage to be proud of.”

Rose Castaneda, instructor, Pacoima Community Youth Culture Center:

“Cinco de Mayo is still a celebration of freedom. That freedom today lies in our youth and in encouraging them to create a better future for all of us. If we don’t vote or get out and motivate others to vote, we can’t go blaming others for something we basically asked for. Not enough of us hold our elected representative accountable when there is something wrong.”

Roberto Sifuentes, Chicano studies professor, Cal State Northridge:

“In the context of what’s going on in California, Cinco de Mayo is a reaffirmation of the fact that people of Mexican descent are here to stay. The Southwestern United States is not a foreign land to people of Mexican ancestry.

“Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of solidarity and a rejoicing of the human spirit. In terms of current events in Mexico, there’s not very much to rejoice about.”

Alfredo Bustamante, Mission College student:

“It shouldn’t take a special day for Latinos to remember where they are from and what’s going on in their native countries. We’ve got to continue to stay together. Not just “La Raza,” but people of all ethnicities.

“If (Gov.) Pete Wilson runs for President, he is likely to use the immigration issue in the same way he did in California last year. Many people tend to believe what he says, because they don’t go out and educate themselves about the issues. We live in a sound-bite world.”