Gigante Opportunities for Politicians, Latinos

Re “Unlikely Alliance Backs Mexican Grocery Store,” Aug. 17:

Any opposition to political activist Nativo Lopez is certain to, in his words, “smack of racism and racial profiling.” Bright politician that he is, Anaheim mayoral candidate Curt Pringle recognizes that about half of Anaheim’s population is Latino--and the elections are just around the corner.

Whether the reason for the city Planning Commission’s rejection was anti-Latino sentiment or an overabundance of liquor licenses, the City Council should not overlook the cultural effect of allowing Gigante to open a store in the city. Lopez accuses Anaheim of using “social engineering” to deny the license.

But for Anaheim to ignore Gigante’s emphasis on Spanish signs over English would be another politically motivated intrusion on our Anaheim culture similar to recent immigration accommodations for driver’s licenses, tuition assistance, Mexican identity cards, and health care--all of which are social-engineered programs that have exacerbated illegal immigration problems.

The council should not overlook the self-serving motivation for Gigante support behind biased political activists like Lopez, national co-director of Hermandad Mexicana Nacional, who demanded that the council grant the license, or his fellow supporter Pringle.

Bob Ball

Anaheim

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Re “Mexican Supermarket Meets Obstacles in Anaheim,” Aug. 5:

Earlier this week as I was reading The Times, I ran across an article regarding Anaheim and supermarket Gigante USA. The article stated that a proposed store location was being denied. I was baffled as to why this would be, given the ethnic makeup of our city. Although city officials denied discrimination, I am curious to know what would be a legitimate cause for them to deny this proposal, which in my opinion would serve as a great opportunity for our community.

I am a proud American who genuinely believes in the American dream. However, I continue to follow the traditions and culture of my native Mexican parents. To me, this store would provide my community, as well as me individually, the opportunity to find Mexican items in a convenient manner.

When Anaheim officials make decisions concerning our community, they should keep in mind that a large part of their constituents are of Latino descent. I hope that our city officials will reconsider. I would still like to continue believing that you can succeed in this country based on hard work rather than race or ethnicity. I still have faith in the American dream.

Christina Canul

Santa Ana