This year, the Grand Prize in Sonoma’s Fourth of July Independence Day parade was won by an entry of Mexican charros impressively twirling lassos while riding their dancing horses. These caballeros wowed both the crowd and the judges with their dashing sombreros and suits regally adorned with silver buttons. It was delightful and thrilling to watch their horses click their hooves on the pavement in rhythmic time to the music. This entry is so historically and culturally appropriate for Sonoma, and its award demonstrates that the community appreciates the skill and beauty inherent in Mexican traditions. This is also a sign of integration as more Latinos participate in America’s most patriotic day.
A reciprocal opportunity is available for Americans to acknowledge el Dia de Independencia of their Mexican neighbors. On Sunday, September 13, Mexicans and Mexican-Americans will gather in Sonoma Plaza to celebrate Mexican Independence Day (September 16.) Local non-profit Nuestra Voz will present Aztec and folkloric dancers, Latin food and music, and a historic ceremony featuring the Mexican Consulate General from San Francisco. The national anthems of both Mexico and the United States will be played as attendees show respect for their homeland and their chosen land.
Why, you may ask, should we care or even allow such events, which honor the history of another country? Ask the Irish in Boston and New York why they celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Ask the Japanese why the Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco is so important to them. These commemorations exist, and we take pride in them because they honor the multi-ethnic, multi-racial heritage of America.
Hispanic Heritage Week was first established in 1968 by President Lyndon Johnson and expanded to Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15-October 15, and enacted into law by President Reagan in 1988. No doubt Hispanic culture will grow in prominence as the Hispanic population in the US is projected to increase to 128.8 million from the current 54 million by 2060. Only Mexico (120 million) has a larger Hispanic population than the United States.
Contrary to some political candidates’ declarations, there is no turning back either the clock or the rising tide of the Latino population in the United States. This demographic shift should not be seen as threatening or confrontational. We need each other. American business, Sonoma business, depends on the labor of Mexican workers and the purchasing dollars of Mexican consumers. Likewise, Mexican families need the opportunities afforded by Sonoma employers, schools, and other community resources. The best chance for success for both groups is to appreciate one another and work together for a better life rather than argue over the inconsequential differences.
The local celebration on September 13 may not reflect your heritage, but I urge you to stop by the Plaza. It’s fitting that the name of the band scheduled to play is Valle Alegre – Happy Valley. Isn’t that what we all want? Viva Mexico! Viva America!
Loretta Carpio Carr tutors in the Writing Center at Napa Valley College. She has lived in Sonoma Valley for 44 years. She is also a singer/percussionist and is currently working on a collection of short stories about growing up in the San Joaquin Valley.
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