For 364 days of the year, Mexicans are viewed as the following: government hoarders, fence-hoppers, job stealers, anchor parents, uneducated, etc. In addition, Mexicans are constantly called racial slurs, including: “wetbacks,” “illegal aliens,” and “cholos.” When Americans constantly degrade Mexican culture, it makes it difficult for Mexicans to be proud of their heritage. In a world that encourages diversity, it is very ironic that cultures outside white identities are condemned by society. However, out of the 364 days of the year, only is celebrated by mainstream America: Cinco de Mayo.
Ah, Cinco de Mayo––Corona’s favorite holiday, as they commercialize Mexican beers, “Authentic” Mexican restaurants serve Margaritas and tacos to their customers as they parade themselves in ponchos, sombreros, and fake mustaches. College students walk to their local bar and spend their last cents on “Cinco de Mayo” tequila shots while actual self-identified Mexicans are working strenuous hours in a poor work conditions, low wages, and exposed to physical abuse. Those celebrating the holiday will scream “Happy Independence Day,” while the oppressors’ silence Mexican voices.
Cinco de Mayo is a holiday in Mexico, but specifically in the state of Puebla. The holiday commemorates the Mexican Army’s defeat over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. While Cinco de Mayo may be seen as a symbolic figure to independence, Mexico’s Independence Day is on September 16. In fact, Cinco de Mayo is only observed in the state of Puebla, Mexico, and nowhere else. As someone who is from Puebla, Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is like Veterans Day in the United States. The holiday itself is a victory, and there is a street named Cinco de Mayo, but this celebration isn’t sought anywhere else.
In an ideal word, I would prefer if the United States did not celebrate Puebla's holiday. Why should Americans celebrate a holiday but condemn Mexicans for showing minimal pride? However, realistically, it would be recommended for Americans to learn more about the Mexican history, dine at authentic Mexican restaurants, and respect the culture.
