Cinco de Mayo: Do's and Don'ts


With the celebration of Cinco de Mayo approaching, I thought I'd inform you guys on how to celebrate the holiday the right way. These are the dos and don'ts of Cinco de Mayo:

 DON'TS:
  • DO NOT assume this is the Mexican Independence Day: Many people believe that this holiday celebrates the Independence of Mexico or that it is our 'Fourth of July' and that is not the case. The celebration is meant to celebrate Mexico's victory in the Battle of Pueblo. Before you make any claims that Cinco de Mayo is the "Mexican Independence Day", you might want to do your research. 
  • DO NOT fall under cultural appropriation: Yes it is a time to celebrate, but do not over do it if you do not come from Mexican heritage. Please do not bring out the mustaches, sombreros, maracas, nor ponchos. As Mexicans, we do not walk around wearing sombreros and serapes 24/7, so please, leave the costumes at home.
  • DO NOT make it an excuse to act a fool: We all want to have fun on any holiday, but please don't go overboard with this one. Attend fiestas, go out with family and friends, but do not get crazy when it comes to the drinking. This isn't called "Cinco de Drinko", it is Cinco de MAYO, a Mexican celebration so please don't carry that phrase around and drink responsibly. 
  • DO NOT use stereotypical phrases and sayings: I know I do not want to walk outside and hear someone yelling "Arriba, Arriba!" or "AY!AY!AY!". You are not Speedy Gonzalez. It is too stereotypical to use these to imitate Mexicans. You just sound ignorant and let's not forget, RACIST.
DO'S:
  • DO celebrate: It is a time to celebrate something important in history, so of course you can celebrate. Have fun without using the racist remarks.
  • DO pig out: Who doesn't love Mexican food? Eat all you can this day and stuff your face in the best authentic food you can find. No matter what you choose to eat, you can never go wrong with Mexican food.
  • DO drink up: It is a time to have fun and I want you to celebrate with some margaritas, cervezas, or whatever else you prefer. Just be sure to remain safe and know your limit. 
  • DO recognize the culture and history: It is super important to know the Mexican culture and history of Cinco de Mayo, especially when you are not Mexican and you participate in the celebration. Grab a drink and listen to some Mexican music or go look at Mexican art. It will only help you gain more knowledge on what the celebration and tradition represents.
In conclusion, Cinco de Mayo is always a fun holiday. It is a celebration of victory for Mexicans and I am happy it is recognized every year. Just be careful and check yourself before you participate in the celebrations so you do not come off wrong to your fellow Mexicans. It hurts the meaning and purpose of the celebration. As long as you know why it is celebrated, have fun and enjoy!

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