History
The state of Arizona, nestled in the southwestern United States, has a deep historical connection to Mexican communities that predates its incorporation into the United States. The area was once home to indigenous people, including the Pima, Yaqui, and Apache tribes. European settlers' arrival in the 16th century shifted their way of life. The Spanish language was introduced, as well as Christianity and new agricultural methods, shaping the region's cultural identity.
Carlos G. Vélez-Ibañez about Mexican heritage
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Arizona became part of the country's northern territories. Not long after that, the United States agreed to pay $10 million for a 29,670 square mile portion of Mexico that later became part of Arizona and New Mexico. This "deal," known as the Gadsden Purchase (1853), defined the border, creating the current geopolitical landscape. Culturally, the migration wave after the Mexican Revolution of 1910 significantly impacted the territory. During that period, thousands of Mexican citizens came to seek refuge in the United States, many of whom settled in the Salt River Valley.
Carlos G. Vélez-Ibañez about the commitment of Mexican community during the civil war
Routes
Today, around 3 200 migrants cross the border every day. Most of them choose to go to Texas or California, but Arizona also has its fair share of interest. The Arizona-Mexico border includes several official ports of entry where migrants may attempt to enter the United States legally or illegally, including Lukeville/Sonoyta, San Luis and Nogales
Culture
There is no such as a pristine, untainted culture, as the notion itself would require it to be pure and intact and for its flow to never have been changed by the interaction with external social factors. This cannot ever be the case, as no one community has ever been entirely isolated throughout its lifespan, as for it to not interact with other social groups and be influenced by them. It is part of being human to engage socially, and it is part of human history for communities to reach common points at various times due to such factors as war or migration. And hence, it is part of the nature of cultures to partake in a continuous process of metamorphosis as they persist in intersecting with one another. The difference, however, lies within the impact's power and/or consistency. This is why, in points of greater proximity to the clash (i.e., border regions), the cultural influence seems (and is) more discernible and tangible and why, as you stray further away down or up the axis from the origin, the hold it has on the host cultures weakens.
Other than proximity, another reason why border regions are "better" at receiving and retaining the influence is due to the constant interaction between the nations: people crossing borders to travel, to go to school, to work, to purchase items; families being connected by love and blood, but divided by man-made "walls and fences" (conceptual or physical).
Other than proximity, another reason why border regions are "better" at receiving and retaining the influence is due to the constant interaction between the nations: people crossing borders to travel, to go to school, to work, to purchase items; families being connected by love and blood, but divided by man-made "walls and fences" (conceptual or physical).
Carlos G. Vélez-Ibañez about the misunderstanding related to "Cinco de Mayo" which is a yearly celebration held on May 5 to celebrate Mexico's victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, often mixed with the Mexican Independence Day which is September, 16.
And, as people cross the border, so does the culture. And in this continuous back-and-forth motion of the pendulum, humans are habitually in motion. The one constant in the equation remains the cultural impact of the constant interaction.
But to grasp how exactly this cross-cultural phenomenon influenced the state of Arizona and, more importantly for our discussion, the Mexican culture of the Latinos living north of the border, we need to first understand the Mexican culture itself, the way it is cherished south of the border.
Much of Mexico's customs and traditions revolve around religious or familial values, the two main pillars of their culture.
About three-quarters of Mexicans identify as Catholics, according to the Central Intelligence Agency, and as public rituals have been essential in the region and Christianity for centuries, a vast fragment of Mexican traditions fall within this category.
As the second vital pillar of Mexican culture represents familial values, it comes as no surprise that the majority of the commemorations come in the form of big gatherings, where the extended family embosoms in one place and celebrates either one of their own (quinceañera) or their heritage (Las Posadas, Guadalajara, Three Kings day, Our Lady of Guadalupe, etc.). This, alongside the vibrant colors and the powerful tastes, contribute to the particularity of Mexican culture.
But to grasp how exactly this cross-cultural phenomenon influenced the state of Arizona and, more importantly for our discussion, the Mexican culture of the Latinos living north of the border, we need to first understand the Mexican culture itself, the way it is cherished south of the border.
Much of Mexico's customs and traditions revolve around religious or familial values, the two main pillars of their culture.
About three-quarters of Mexicans identify as Catholics, according to the Central Intelligence Agency, and as public rituals have been essential in the region and Christianity for centuries, a vast fragment of Mexican traditions fall within this category.
As the second vital pillar of Mexican culture represents familial values, it comes as no surprise that the majority of the commemorations come in the form of big gatherings, where the extended family embosoms in one place and celebrates either one of their own (quinceañera) or their heritage (Las Posadas, Guadalajara, Three Kings day, Our Lady of Guadalupe, etc.). This, alongside the vibrant colors and the powerful tastes, contribute to the particularity of Mexican culture.
Yet, as we are focusing on the cultural clash in the border region of Arizona, we cannot talk about untainted, pristine cultures, as it concerns the American heritage or the Mexican one.
Firstly, we should highlight the influence of the Mexican culture over the American one that makes itself seen at both state and national levels. The most prominent addition in the U.S. that has by now become a staple piece and that originates from the south of the border is Latino gastronomy. One could never nowadays imagine American cuisine and not include tacos or burritos on the list and the celebratory churros that accompany most fairs and carnivals. But even the gastronomical influence goes beyond the most obvious and stereotypical elements. Corn and salsa-based dishes and snacks also derive from Latino cuisine and have since become a trademark in the states.
But the influence goes beyond just food. Mexican heritage and characters have greatly impacted the entertainment sector, especially in media. Names such as Frida Khalo, Salma Hayek, Anthony Quinn, and Dolores Del Río are all names that have made history in their respective timelines and that hugely influenced and increased the American and global heritage and that have Mexican roots.
In terms of fashion, the lively colors and patterns specific to Mexican culture have slowly found their way onto the biggest catwalks in the world and, from there, into our homes.
As per celebrations, especially in the border region of Arizona, Mexican holidays such as Dia De Los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo are continuously gaining popularity in the United States.
However, suppose the culture and celebrations gain more traction amongst the Americans. In that case, it is only on the surface and rarely does that popularity come with a deeper understanding of the traditions and meanings behind them.
Firstly, we should highlight the influence of the Mexican culture over the American one that makes itself seen at both state and national levels. The most prominent addition in the U.S. that has by now become a staple piece and that originates from the south of the border is Latino gastronomy. One could never nowadays imagine American cuisine and not include tacos or burritos on the list and the celebratory churros that accompany most fairs and carnivals. But even the gastronomical influence goes beyond the most obvious and stereotypical elements. Corn and salsa-based dishes and snacks also derive from Latino cuisine and have since become a trademark in the states.
But the influence goes beyond just food. Mexican heritage and characters have greatly impacted the entertainment sector, especially in media. Names such as Frida Khalo, Salma Hayek, Anthony Quinn, and Dolores Del Río are all names that have made history in their respective timelines and that hugely influenced and increased the American and global heritage and that have Mexican roots.
In terms of fashion, the lively colors and patterns specific to Mexican culture have slowly found their way onto the biggest catwalks in the world and, from there, into our homes.
As per celebrations, especially in the border region of Arizona, Mexican holidays such as Dia De Los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo are continuously gaining popularity in the United States.
However, suppose the culture and celebrations gain more traction amongst the Americans. In that case, it is only on the surface and rarely does that popularity come with a deeper understanding of the traditions and meanings behind them.
On the other hand, in terms of how living in America has changed the Mexican heritage, the impact is just as great, and the number of challenges is just as big, if not more. While almost 20% of the American population is Latino, with the percentage growing near the border, this strong presence does not eliminate the challenges the Mexican community faces daily, even in terms of commemorating their heritage. While many families do celebrate the most important holidays and cherish their culture, and while the region itself provides opportunities for said commemorations to take place, the challenge of remaining loyal to 'the way things were' or 'the way things are done back in the motherland' is an everlasting one. This was especially true regarding cultural relegation or evanescence, but it remains true.
Perspective of an ASU's student Nicole Macias Garibay (who is originally from Mexico) about her community and their position within the U.S. society
Challenges
Successful integration is a long process. It goes beyond crossing the border, beyond leaving everything behind. In Arizona and not only, integration has been a struggle for ages. People with Mexican roots face challenges affecting their opportunity to reach everyday needs and rights. Several state laws impede their equal access to education, health care, legal support, or even participation in decision-making.
Education
As education is the cornerstone of personal and societal growth, providing individuals with knowledge, skills, and opportunities, not having equal access to it would have lasting consequences on how society functions. In Arizona, the Hispanic population struggles to adapt to the system due to factors such as language barriers and cultural differences, but not only.
Undocumented students of Hispanic Heritage also struggle with tuition equity. Arizona has restricted its eligibility for in-state tuition rates at public universities and colleges. Thereupon, they have to pay far more than their American peers. Legal challenges have been brought against these restrictions, arguing that they create barriers. Access to education is a key factor in integration and in achieving equality. Or as Elin Nordegren says:
"Education is one thing no one can take away from you."
Undocumented students of Hispanic Heritage also struggle with tuition equity. Arizona has restricted its eligibility for in-state tuition rates at public universities and colleges. Thereupon, they have to pay far more than their American peers. Legal challenges have been brought against these restrictions, arguing that they create barriers. Access to education is a key factor in integration and in achieving equality. Or as Elin Nordegren says:
"Education is one thing no one can take away from you."
Legal issues
Arizona has always been a focal point in the national immigration debate due to its proximity to the border. In 2010, the state passed Senate Bill 1070, a controversial law to crack down on illegal immigration. The law allowed law enforcement officers to inquire about the status of individuals during routine stops if there was a reasonable suspicion that they were undocumented. The consequences sparked protests and legal challenges, with concerns about racial profiling and potential discrimination against Hispanics. Detractors maintained that immigration enforcement should be the federal government's responsibility, not individual states, and that SB 1070 could interfere with federal jurisdiction. Some argued that the law would even negatively affect community relations, as immigrants might become fearful of reporting crimes or cooperating with law enforcement due to concerns about immigration enforcement.
Political rights
Since 2003 Latinos have been pronounced the largest U.S. minority group, yet they still had the lowest registration and voter turnout rates among racial and ethnic groups during the 2020 general election. Several factors, such as the lack of representation, the language barrier, and restrictive laws may influence these results. Racist efforts to suppress Latino political participation in the United States are nothing new, especially in states like Arizona. For over 60 years, for example, Arizona law required voters to pass an English literacy test to register to vote. Today, Spanish and non-English ballots are not required nationwide, though some advocates say multilingual ballots are critical for democracy. Despite being a sizable and growing demographic group, Latinos are also often underrepresented in federal, state, and local elected offices. Achieving greater Latino representation in government can help address the community's unique concerns and perspectives.
Stereotypes
In their daily lives, people from Mexico must contend with stereotypes that can manifest themselves in any environment: from the workplace to the supermarket, from school to the playground. Many discriminatory statements in the public space are there thanks to populist rhetoric from political figures. Both men and women with such roots are portrayed as dirty, lazy, uneducated, and dishonest. They are often associated with low-paid work: portrayed as laborers or cleaners. They are said to be trying to "steal" Americans' jobs. Failing that, they are likely to engage in criminal activity. These allegations strongly discourage successful integration and the building of a multicultural society.
In the end...
Overall, the Mexican community in Arizona carries on a colorful culture with deep roots and lengthening traditions. Coexisting with those in the United States is a difficult task, taking effort on both sides and requiring time. What such coexistence can bring are the diversity of society, values, holidays, food, and so much more. Additionally, by working together to develop more justice and equitable policies, the U.S. and Mexico can help ensure that human rights are protected and that their contributions to society are recognized and valued. International cooperation between the two countries is crucial in addressing the challenges and opportunities of cross-border movement. Access to education, health care, or work should not be a question mark but universal. Policies based on fear of difference could have no logical and lasting justification.
Hopefully, each challenge can be overcome step by step, policy by policy, and book by book. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to learn a little more than we knew yesterday, as education is the first step towards conquering such fear.
From: Andra Zoica, Filip Dosljak, Yoanna Nencheva
Hopefully, each challenge can be overcome step by step, policy by policy, and book by book. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to learn a little more than we knew yesterday, as education is the first step towards conquering such fear.
From: Andra Zoica, Filip Dosljak, Yoanna Nencheva