Cultural Exchange.

The knowledge of the Mexican Independence has been ignored by most Mexican Americans residing in The United States. The different cultures people have brought to the US have been modified and have lost meaning for some Mexicans. The revolution of independence gave freedom to the country, and must be recognized and celebrated by every Mexican wherever they live. The Independence Day celebration is a day I really miss from my country, because of the emotions that bring the community together, the food and over all the real meaning of the day.

The atmosphere shared by the community on this day is an unforgettable experience. As today is the two hundred thirteenth anniversary of the Mexican Independence, many memories come back. Knowing that I will not be able to celebrate this day as I should disturbs me. Seeing green, white and red everywhere was always reason of happiness. All the streets are decorated with the color of the Mexican flag. Vendors would be everywhere selling balloons, matracas, sombreros and, of course, the Mexican flag. There would be people recreating this day. Everyone would be dressed as a character from history, and this was the most beautiful part. During the re-creation the people involved were not only adults but young children that loved their country since a very young age. This made people have even more respect towards our community. I participated in it several times and also escorted the flag. Even though I was so young, it made me really proud of my country. This is something I could not say since The United States does not celebrates it as it should be with all the emotions that it implies, because they do not take it as serious as the Mexican independence is. Although the only date which is Cinco de Mayo it is just used as an excuse for people to get drunk.  As I, a true Mexican, I feel aggravated because of this.

No doubt, the food will never be close to what it should in The United States. There are several plates that represent the Mexican culture,  however, the most important are chiles enogada and mole poblano, which  would be rarelly found in the US during Cinco de mayo, day that is more likely resembling 16 De Septiembre in The US. During this day in the US, the food would be more close to BBQ or even pizza, and that is embarrassing. Instead of tequila, horchata or beer, they would drink whiskey and vodka which are not part of the tradition. It may sound strange but for a real Mexican who loves his background is not.

Moreover, something really unappealing is seeing Mexican Americans during the Cinco de Mayo celebrating what according to their ignorance is the Mexican Independence. There is just only one way to celebrate this day, and I is strictly attached to Mexican culture. Respect, honor, and overall knowledge are what Mexican Americans should have towards this date. This is a holy day in the Mexican culture and drinking and partying are zero percent related to it.

Last and as a conclusion, this is not what a real Mexican should do. Customs and traditions should stay, for the pride of our country to inherit to our next generations, and make them proud of their country, too. Celebrating Mexican independence should be taken seriously and should be celebrated in this country. Cinco De Mayo is not even celebrated in Mexico. Why do it here? Pride and respect are what every single Mexican living in America should have for this day, his country and himself.