I was saddened by the Cinco de Mayo controversy surrounding Live
Oak High School and the greater Morgan Hill community.
I was saddened by the Cinco de Mayo controversy surrounding Live Oak High School and the greater Morgan Hill community. As a past instructor of history of the Southwest at Gavilan College, I feel obligated to do my share in trying to calm the controversy and recommend a solution. I refuse to find fault with any of the primary parties, students, parents and educators. They were correct in their actions based on their judgments, and yes emotions. However, the issue is one of institutional practice. Other educational institutions have experienced the same outbursts. Others have avoided these incidents with better practices. We need policies in our educational institutions that are inclusive and promote appreciation and education over celebration.
In all honesty, had some Russian students paraded around with the hammer and cycle emblem at my alma mater, San Benito High School in the ’50s, I and others would have worn some American Flag symbols in defiance. And, I also would have expected my parent’s support. the American flag is the political icon of our country. The Mexican flag is a cultural symbol of a legendary story that occurred hundreds of years before the country of Mexico existed.
I grew up in the presence of patriotic Hispanics who loved this country and displayed both the American flag to express their patriotism and the Mexican flag to express their love of Mexican culture.
The principal used correct judgment in his efforts to avoid confrontation. Safety is the first priority in our schools. The superintendent was correct that perhaps the students the principal sent home may have been denied their constitutional rights. This does not suggest the students have the same rights on campus as off campus.
The students who participated in the Cinco de Mayo celebration to develop pride didn’t need the celebration. They are already proud. And, I doubt that the vast majority of students could care less about the incident and just want everyone to get along.
Cinco de Mayo is not a national Mexican holiday. It was first celebrated in California in 1860s in response to the resistance of French rule in Mexico. Cinco de Mayo celebrations are widespread in the United States in recognition of Mexican heritage. This celebration is no different than St. Patrick’s Day and other days of recognition. Another aspect is purely economical. Some say it is the beginning of beer season.
Until I turned 25, I had never heard of it. We always celebrated the 16th of September, Mexican Independence, and only because our parents included us.
The French were in Mexico to help the South win the Civil War. Some historians claim their intentions were to liberate the Port of New Orleans and help the South win.
In return Mexico would take possession of the land it had lost after the Mexican American War. Essentially, the battle at Puebla, the origins of Cinco de Mayo, may have had a greater positive impact on United States history than Mexican history. It does mark the last time any foreign troops invaded the American continent.
Finally may I suggest a positive recommendation for resolution based on a practice here at San Benito Joint Union High School? Here the high school has two or perhaps three BLT days, extended Baler Lunch Time, originally International Day. The students celebrate diversity but more importantly learn to appreciate diversity and all cultures are included. Teachers should take the opportunity to discuss and teach about different immigrants. This was implemented to avoid what happened at Morgan Hill High School. Based on my experiences as a Hollister School Trustee in the ’70s I truly appreciate this policy. You may ask why have anything? Diversity is a unique and important characteristic of American history and today’s society. Immigrants gave and preserve our work ethic which has always been the seed of American productivity.
Morgan Hill is a great city. You have come a long ways since you began electing your mayor. I truly enjoy your celebrations and events. You don’t deserve the negative publicity you received and the students even less.
Tony Ruiz was born and raised in San Benito County and taught at Gavilan College for 30 years. Promoting intercultural appreciation has been his life’s work as a result of his studies and travels.
