One of the greatest things about living in the United States is the fact that you can come in contact with practically every single culture in the world in this great nation. One of the not so great things is that we tend to really suck when it comes to appreciating these cultures properly, and we often come off very offensively, even if our hearts are in the right places. This is especially true when we incorporate cultures into our celebrations. I love my culture and my heritage and I can only speak on what I know personally, so here are a couple of things to consider before you throw your next fiesta.
Cinco De Mayo
It seems that no matter how many times this is explained, people always forget that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day. Independence Day is actually September 16th, and Cinco De Mayo just commemorates the unlikely victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Other than in Puebla, most Mexican’s don’t even celebrate this holiday. Most of the celebrations are in American cities intended to boost sales of Mexican foods and beverages. An easy way to remember that Cinco De Mayo isn’t Independence Day is to think about it like Mexico’s Alamo, except Mexico actually won.
Speaking Spanish
It really does blow my mind that so many Americans take multiple years of Spanish and can barely ask where the bathroom is located. I get it, it’s not that interesting, but you do know that you’re at a disadvantage versus almost the half world who can speak more than one language, and you’re just throwing this opportunity away, right? Anyway, it’s cool if you don’t want to learn the language, but please don’t be ridiculous with it either. Adding o’s to the end of every word to make it sound Spanish is straight up garbage and not funny or cute at all. Also, we don’t say phrases like ¡Ándale! ¡Ándale! ¡Arriba! ¡Arriba! ¡Epa! ¡Epa! ¡Epa! The American artists who came up with Speedy Gonzales thought it would be a fun addition to the mouse’s dialogue.
Making Mexican Dishes
It’s an inconvenient truth, and it really does suck, but there’s a great chance that whatever Mexican food you think you’ve had is trash Tex Mex. You can’t fathom what real Mexican food tastes like. And a lot of times, dishes you think are Mexican aren’t even found in Mexico. Look, go to Mexico and show me a place that serves chimichangas. Don’t worry. I’ll wait. I will say that I’m not against Taco Bell because it’s good, i’m poor, and I generally hate myself, so I can’t throw shade at T bell.
Dressing Up As Mexicans
I don’t think there’s anything that makes someone look like more of an idiot than sitting at an airport with a ridiculous sombrero on their head as they come back from Mexico. You also look like an idiot when you don’t know the difference between a serape and a poncho. They are two very different things, and for the most part, we don’t even wear ponchos. Serapes have made a large mark in fashion lately, and they really are cool and keep you super warm, and it’s a hundred percent alright to wear one, as long as you’re not doing it in a mocking manner.
Saying You’re Going To Visit
Don’t tell me you’re going to Cabo, Cancun or Cozumel and going to see Chichen Itza. Even though all those places are wonderful and beautiful, Mexico is one of the richest lands in natural beauty, art, culture, style, architecture. It’s so big and literally has everything you could ever want to see. So, skip the booze cruise and do yourself a favor and explore real Mexico.
But Mexicans Encourage The Stereotypes
There will always be people trying to capitalize on exploiting people and what they have to offer. Just because a waiter at a Mexican restaurant smiles when you put on a sombrero and make a fool out for yourself while you’re drinking margaritas doesn’t make it fine. That waiter is probably dying inside, but it makes money, so they’re not going to complain. Don’t get me wrong, I want people to enjoy my culture and my heritage as much as I do. But, I want people to really explore it and get to know it. Go beyond the gross stereotypes. Not just for mine, but for all cultures and heritages around the world. It’s not about being politically correct, it’s about not being a cabron.
