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MEChA has changed over past 40 years
Latino student group chapter working from inside
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More from Education: CollegeAt Oxnard College, today's MEChA is not your uncle's MEChA.
The local chapter of the Chicano Student Movement of Aztlan is more interested in supporting local environmental causes, anti-gang projects and raising scholarship money for undocumented students than in promoting Chicano separatism.
Born in Los Angeles during the racial turmoil of the late 1960s, MEChA has evolved during the past 40 years as it has spread to colleges, high schools and even middle schools across the country, said Everardo Rivera, the Oxnard College MEChA student group adviser.
Although some MEChA members still support social and political separatism, the Oxnard College group, like some others, has evolved "from being on the outside looking in to being on the inside creating change," Rivera said.
On Tuesday, the Oxnard College "mechistas" celebrated Mexican Independence Day with a concert of contemporary and traditional music. They also operated a taco stand to raise money to help undocumented students who are not eligible for state aid. The group, which numbers 20 to 30 members, got help from Barrera's Restaurant y Panaderia in Oxnard, which supplied the fixings.
Antonia Flores, a biology major who recently became the chapter's vice president, said the group's most recent activities were promoting a demonstration about the Halaco Superfund site in Ormond Beach and helping to paint a building in the Colonia neighborhood that will be used for anti-gang programs.
Flores does not believe that Mexican-Americans should separate themselves from other Americans. But, she added: "We can't forget the past. We should remember this was the land of Chicanos."
Citlatzin Ibarra, the group's secretary, said MEChA is now more racially diverse and more "about working together with other groups."
Tuesday's taco fundraiser was intended to help three of the group's members who are undocumented, she said.
The group also supports the Dream Act, a proposed federal law that would provide high-achieving high school students who are long-term illegal immigrants and who wish to serve in the armed forces or attend college the opportunity to gain legal status.
The Oxnard College "mechistas" are first-generation Mexican-Americans who are passionate about the environment and social injustice, Rivera said. "Que cool!" he said in Spanglish.
Separatism is not the answer to injustice, Rivera said. What makes sense to him is to understand how the system works and to work within it to create positive social change, he said.
"You can march, you can yell, but unless you prepare to make that change, all you're doing is yelling," he tells the MEChA members. Preparation means getting an education and serving as a model for the younger generation, he said. But working within the system still leaves room for protest.
Producto B, a local Oxnard band that often takes part in MEChA events, included the song "Yo No Soy Un Criminal," in its performance at Tuesday's event. The song, whose title means "I Am Not a Criminal," was written by band member Chuy Leon, 25. It says in part: "If they get me, I'm going to jump over the fence again. It's not a crime to try to survive."
Posted by goldeneye on September 17, 2008 at 6:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
After its celebration of this racist group, the Star should next do a puff piece on how great the skinhead movement is. Heck, skinheads promote the interests of so call working class whites. Aren't they great? This is a disgusting article. The Star has promoted a racist, anti-American, hate group.
Posted by kelly13 on September 17, 2008 at 7:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It's not a crime to try to survive? That is the problem. To these people nothing is a crime. They don't believe in our laws.
Posted by AskingQuestions on September 17, 2008 at 7:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"These people" are us, you and me: people. JUST LIKE YOU AND ME, whether you like it or not! People working, paying taxes (YES even the undocumented pay taxes just like you and me), and raising their families. Are there criminals within "these" people? Yes, just like there are criminals within any other group of people. Over the past 40 years MECHa has produced doctors, lawyers, police officers, fire fighters, teachers and every other occupation you can think of. MECHa and the Young Republicans at my college were similar in that both were activists and working for political change. If you hate one, then you must date the other.
Congratulations to the Oxnard College MECHa -- they are proudly carrying the torch passed on by my and my parent's generations.
Posted by gramagracie on September 17, 2008 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Legal_American,AskingQuestions, I concur with your comments. I was not allowed to belong to Mecha,my father believed it to be a radical group against the USA, a country my father called his country and fought in WWII! What has Mexico done with the rest of the country that WE "did not steal" from them? Not a thing that's why the mexicans keep running over to the side that WE "did steal" from them, which is a great country.
I don't like the "Mexican-American" label, or any other nationality hyphen with America. We are all Americans, we live in this great country, if any other country was greater than why did they come to live here?
Posted by getreal on September 17, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Unbelievable. And White supremacy groups are a crime? Whats the difference? You want to be in this country so badly yet you can't support the USA. This is exactly the reason there is so much hatred for illegals from Mexico. No respect for the country they run to.
Posted by KatieTeague on September 17, 2008 at 9:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
MechA at Ventura College was a very angry group of people two years ago. Angry towards freedom of thought. I was president of Students for Academic Freedom there and you would not believe the shenanigans pulled by the MecHa crowd.
Posted by FedUp on September 17, 2008 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"YES even the undocumented pay taxes just like you and me"
sure they do. maybe when they buy groceries or something. a lot of illegals are paid under the table in cash. no taxes being paid there.
get a clue. MECHA is a racist organization, who is looking to take back what they believe is theirs. they are no different than the KKK, who you illegal supporters are always comparing people who are against illegal immigration to.
Posted by bruceski44 on September 17, 2008 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
We've seen this type of "legitimization" before. Hezbollah started out as a revolutionary militia and conducted and funded terrorist attacks. But now that they've won seats in the Lebanese Parliament, they'd like people to believe they are legitimate. Don't fall for any of this propaganda. These groups are clever enough to use the freedoms they gain here against us. The First Amendment allows these groups to speak freely and they are able to contrive a legitimate appearance while they work behind the scenes to subvert our government. It's not paranoia if they really are out to get us.
Posted by rjeremy on September 17, 2008 at 9:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Reading the comments only reinforces the ignorance in Ventura Country by; I am sure, a select few. Most of you sound like you have a fourth grade education. This group appears to be trying to identify with a particular culture. Is that wrong? They are trying to help others regardless of documentation. Are we blaming them for the undocumented folks breaking the law or should we be more concerned about those who hire them which only reinforce their exodus from countries with poor economies? Is this group any different from any other group trying to help their own community? Is a Jewish center more likely to help a parishioner rather than one from a different faith? Also, is it fair to say that groups can evolve and change their principles? If it’s not, do we hold our countries forefathers accountable for originally setting up a constitution that allows slavery?
Some of these comments sound like we all need to be educated about different groups, including myself. There are countless assumptions including one made by the author that are not correct such as MeChA members being first generation Mexican-Americans. Third and fourth generations are members as well as other populations.
I humbly admit that I have had false assumptions as well but continue to educate myself rather than have a chip on my shoulder and pass on my ignorance on to my children that perpetuates this ideology onto future generations.
Posted by getreal on September 17, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
rjeremy maybe you can sing "No Yo Soy Un Criminal" to your children at night so they grow to think illegal activity is accepted by you.
Posted by ahoodlum on September 17, 2008 at 9:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
My wife took a group of her students (largely latino) to a MEChA sponsored college event at CSU Northridge (I think). Her idea was to get kids who otherwise would not have even thought of going to college a chance to see what opportunities were available to them. She and the students were expecting application workshops, scholarship workshops, SAT/ACT prep seminars, etc. Instead they got horribly prepared, hate-filled, brainwashing mantra from a bunch of student radicalists about "the struggle." It was an absolutely sickening experience and now my wife fears that her students will never want to go to college. Awesome...way to help "your people" MEChA!
These are the kind of people that the Star portrays as "working together with other groups." Ha!
Posted by tim_timer on September 17, 2008 at 9:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Oxnard College MECHa has started a public relations campaign to improve the organization's public image. This "news" article shows a new and improved version of the old, radicalized Chicano student group. Do not be fooled.
Posted by dvote4 on September 17, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Legal_American, I requested that your post be removed earlier this week. At the time, your comments were not being expressed in the proper forum. That article was about the victims of the Metrolink crash and I felt the comments should be respectful to situation. However, this article is the appropriate forum for your comments and the link. In case anyone is wondering, I am NOT a supporter of MEChA. I completely do not agree with what they stand for nor believe they have changed/transformed from the group they used to be ~40 years ago. I am of Latino heritage, but American first.
Posted by getreal on September 17, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
How about scholarships for young people in GENERAL. Why is it about race? Why only scholarships for young Blacks or young Latinos? Where is the scholarship for the young caucasians? OMG! That would be racist!
Posted by cast on September 17, 2008 at 9:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"If they get me, I'm going to jump over the fence again. It's not a crime to try to survive."
There must be something wrong in the translation.It is illegal there for a crime to be here undocumented!.Get the hint if some one throws you out of lets say a house.Are you gonna come back in from the window?.What a disgrace I can't believe someone actualy thought this was worth the ink!..NO SHOES, NO SHIRT, NO SERVICE, NO PAPERS..get the heck out of here!!! or spend your "it's not a crime to survive".Then do it behind bars.This is so RACIST it makes me sick. not only is it Racist it is frekin ILLEGAL!
It is also Greedy,how many of us can buy land in Mexico?..yeah thats what i thought!urgh
Posted by cast on September 17, 2008 at 9:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
minutemen to the rescue!!!
Posted by latina79 on September 17, 2008 at 10:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"We can't forget the past. We should remember this was the land of Chicanos."
Posted by cast on September 17, 2008 at 10:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
whatever
You should be promoting being an American.To promote white is just as bad.It's called Racist!Whatever- were you giving the choice to be white brown ,green?.Let's move forward not backward.So far I think we are all on the same page.
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on September 17, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I didn't agree with Mecha back in H.S. and probably don't agree with it now....the only point I'll make about minorities attempting to come together as a group is that White Americans have a 200 year headstart on minorities. (That's a FACT)
The Black Panthers...groups like Mecha....might take it a bit too far on some topics...but have a reason to want to organize and promote the rise of their particular ethnic group in America.
America, rode the backs of slaves, immigrants workers (of several races)...and in the end complain that these same groups down the road attempt to unite and become stronger and make their impact known in the country. Why can't White American's unite and promote the values of the KKK in public? Because of SLAVERY. Because of segregation. Yes...you are still paying for your Grandfather's decisions. If we have to pay for your Grandfather's decisions...then so should you. These are FACTS people.
Again, I am not part of Mecha...but believe that people should be proud of their ethnicity and culture and should have a right to call themselves Americans....or Mexican-Americans...or African-Americans. It's their right. I for one am here to contribute and dislike ANYONE that ABUSES of social services (that includes White American citizens as well as Latinos and African-Americans).
Posted by bruceski44 on September 17, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
latina79-
Yes, we all know that this was once Mexican land. What you seem to ignore is that the Mexican government signed a treaty ceding this land to the USA at the end of the Mexican-American War. It doesn't surprise me that you would ignore it though, because people that think like you have no respect for government, be it Mexican or American. America was founded on the rule of law, get it or get out.
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on September 17, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
CAMDAD: Like I said...I don't endorse all actions that this group takes. The "big picture" however...is not wrong. To want to promote and support your race to demonstrate the importance of it in this multi-racial country is not wrong...to say that your race is the only one that matters is. That's where I differ with Mecha....it's like saying: "yeah, we're important and we should help each other, but it doesn't mean I'm not going to help my African-American friend too". That's what I'm saying.
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on September 17, 2008 at 10:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
As for comments about Mecha rallying to protest on behalf of the illegal immigrant population, I would say their efforts would be better spent rallying and sitting down pen to paper helping them fill out documents and initiate the process of becoming resident aliens and thus legally allowing them to remain and/or entry this country and work LEGALLY. That would benefit BOTH sides (thought one particular side would not like it because it means they can't complain about "those" people's legal status anymore if they get documented and move into your neighborhood.
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on September 17, 2008 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Fast typing = lax punctuation...sue me.
Posted by gramagracie on September 17, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Latina 79, actually this land belonged to the Native Americans, last time I looked in the Native American registry "Aztec" was not listed. What do you think the mexicans did to the Native Americans when they took over their land? The same thing that all others did....fought them for it. In every war their is a winning side and a losing side.
BabysDaddyz, what do you call paying the "illegals" less than minimun wage...I call it slavery, or renting out spaces for hundreds of dollars ( most of the employers and landlords happen to be latinos) I call it oppression.
If anyone has a right to complain about the borders not being protected it should be the Native Americans.
Legal immigration is all anyone is calling for. Mecha wants to continue to help law breakers...radical as always.
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on September 17, 2008 at 11:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
gramagracie: "most of the employers and landlords happen to be latinos"
WRONG. The field supervisors may be Latinos...but the majority of the Ranch-owners are NOT Latino. As for landlords...where did you get your information from? Last time I checked...not only Latinos rent out their homes/spaces in this country.
Posted by cicatriz98 on September 17, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Everyone,
Stop wasting your energy typing negative comments which do not change this world we ALL live in. Change starts from within, go out and do something positive that will change your home, neighborhood, or city. I still find it hard to believe that we consider humanity so far advanced in technology, but yet can not love every human.
So go ahead post a comment in reply to my comment or instead visit your elderly grandmother who might need someone to help her get that item off the topshelf which she can't reach.
ONE LOVE
Posted by gramagracie on September 17, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I apologize for using an extreme with reference to the landlords and have no facts to back up my comment. I have seen the oppression on the illegals and it sickens me, don't get me wrong I don't believe they belong in America illegaly, but I sill feel for them. It seems to me that most of the oppression is being reaffirmed by latinos, your case in point, by the "latino supervisor".In the state of Arizona NO EMPLOYER can hire an illegal alien period. The landscaping crew in our developement all are documented. I speak with them and they tell me stories of their illegal family members who have been oppressed in this manner, they get less wages and rent rooms from other latinos.
Posted by cast on September 17, 2008 at 12:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Indian Givers!
Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on September 17, 2008 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
CAMDAD: LOL
Yeah...I read the comment and went out and hugged my neighbor.....he yelled out YES ON PROP 8!!!!...and now I have a black eye.
Posted by getreal on September 17, 2008 at 12:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
gramagracie who cares if they are oppressed? They are criminals. Do you feel sorry for the convicted murderer who escaped prison and is having a hard time living the good life while on the run? I should hope not so tell me why these criminals should be treated any different? A criminal is a criminal no matter what color you call it.
Posted by ebrockway on September 17, 2008 at 12:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ok apparently it's now time for White Supremacy hate groups to sell hotdogs and preach change. Wonder who at the Star will step up and write a puff piece for them?
Hate groups are wrong I don't care what color they represent, and I for one am offended this paper and others continue to shill for them because it's fashionable in the places they hang out.
Better do some investigating Star, you make yourselves look the fool.
Posted by rjeremy on September 17, 2008 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think we are reading different articles. I do not sense any bias on behalf of the author of this article who appears to merely present facts. He happens to have a Spanish surname and automatically some assume they know him as well as his political agenda. Would some of the comments referencing the author and his bias be made if his surname was Smith? He is trying to clarify the differences between this group of old versus the group of new and educate people. And you wonder why inbreeding is not legal!
Posted by ebrockway on September 17, 2008 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
rjeremy
If the person writing this had another surname that was non-Hispanic, I'd assume the person had the wool pulled over their eyes.
Notice how fast the article disappeared from the headlines section?
Possibly it just rotated off? Equally possible someone didn't like the negative attention and remarks?
Posted by rjeremy on September 17, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ebrockway
Great observation. You must have a freaken PhD. Yesterday, I broke a mirror, now I must have several years of bad luck ahead of me. I sure hope you are not in a community position of authority.
Posted by Franko on September 17, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
When I was in high school I did not care for our local MEChA club. In college, I made student friends from all over California. Some of them including myself were part of MEChA. To be clear, during those years, not once did anyone preach to me about hating anyone, radicalizing or hating America. Not once did anyone preach or say that the Mexican Government should rule California, or that this land was meant to be given back to Mexico.
What I did learn was that in order to be successful, whether at school or anywhere else, we needed to know where we came from. History has taught me that my ancestors have had to endure many ordeals both in Mexico and here in America. Like the oppression of the Indians by the Spaniards, then the oppression of the Mexican Government that continues to happen this day, the re-patriation of many Mexican Americans during the 1920's here in the states... I could go on and on, but I think you get my point.
I love the USA and all it has given me and my family. Along the way we have lost family in Vietnam and in Iraq. I also love my culture, but I too hate
people that break the law, gangbangers and anyone who discriminates fellow human beings.
So, for all of those who think they know everything about MEChA, I respectfully disagree. That would be like me calling alocal fraternity or sorority something stupid like a sex club (which they are not.)
I also think that as of late, the Star has put articles like this in headlines to capture more viewers as they know it will create controversy. Maybe they need the publicity, I don't know?
Posted by ebrockway on September 17, 2008 at 3:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
rjeremy;
Brilliantly written! You dispute nothing I said, and proved the banjo music from the movie Deliverance is in your own head, not from the inbreeding of others.
Posted by Freedom1 on September 17, 2008 at 5:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
MEChA has done a great job of empowering and integrating their activists into local, state and federal governments as well as schools and universities throughout the US. Probably a good idea since one day very soon Hispanics will far outnumber other ethnic groups in the US. Once you become familiar with this organization you’ll quickly learn their real goals. One source is the following information in the Wikipedia website:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Movimien... found under“Criticism:”
“A passage from MEChA's national website reads: ‘As Chicanas and Chicanos of Aztlán, we are a nationalist movement of Indigenous Gente that lay claim to the land that is ours by birthright. As a nationalist movement we seek to free our people from the exploitation of an oppressive society that occupies our land. Thus, the principle of nationalism serves to preserve the cultural traditions of La Familia de La Raza and promotes our identity as a Chicana/Chicano Gente.”
I’ve often wondered what would have happened to the Southwest United States had it not been won by war, treaty and purchased from Mexico? Mexico, except for the ancestors of it’s Spanish conquerors, isn’t exactly a very welcoming environment for it’s own native people. We’ll soon know.
Posted by jsanchezjr on September 17, 2008 at 6:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hi folks, I'm Joe Sanchez, the reporter who wrote this story. I've always believed that knowledge is the beginning of wisdom so here are some facts about the Mexican-American War. This war, which resulted in the loss of nearly half of Mexico's territory in 1848, is viewed by most serious American historians as an unprovoked war of aggression and conquest by the United States against Mexico, promoted by President James Polk and the slavery interest within the Democratic Party, who wanted to expand slavery to the new American states they hoped would be carved out of Mexico. The war was denounced by Abraham Lincoln, John Quincy Adams, and Henry David Thoreau, among others. Congressman Joshua Giddings, one of the leading opponents of the war, said it was "an aggressive, unholy, and unjust war." "In the murder of Mexicans upon their own soil, or in robbing them of their country, I can take no part either now or hereafter. The guilt of these crimes must rest on others," he said. Many American history school books still speak of Mexico "ceding" territory to the United States, which in fact Mexico was forced to give up by superior military force. Many Mexicans and Mexican-Americans remember this and find it difficult to accept the moral outrage of those who claim exclusive title to what they consider to be stolen property. And by the way, I am not Mexican. I am Cuban and I think the United States redeemed its imperialist sins by fighting for the good cause in World War I, World War II and many other conflicts since.
Posted by caokie on September 17, 2008 at 9:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Let's give California back to Mexico,then in 10 years it will be corrupt worst then it is. Drug ridden, and most of all dirt dog poor. And still millions will flee into the US where ever it is.If someone is so proud of Mexico go back down there and change the country for the better. The people coming up here illegally are not the best Mexico has to offer. WHY DID THE STAR PULL THIS STORY WIMPS
Posted by ebrockway on September 17, 2008 at 10:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
jsanchezjr;
Ok, I understand their feelings, but do they understand reality? Obviously they won't take it back by force; they now seem to be learning that to recover lost territory all they need to do is breed, become citizens, and vote. I believe they’ll win eventually.
Along the way, however, they destroy their own credibility when they make unrealistic demands, wave foreign flags while protesting not having all the rights of citizenship without the long wait of actually becoming citizens, and attempt to subvert the system by claiming to be one thing as a group, and proving they are another by deed.
Anecdotally, in the above responses I think you can see some possible instances where even those with Hispanic origin are shocked by the behavior and actions of MEChA and its members. Obviously these actions would be best swept under the rug, played down, or ignored by a press willing to turn a blind eye in the name of political correctness.
Posted by leahb78_1999 on September 17, 2008 at 11:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Okay, we can give California back to the Mexican's as long as they give Mexico back to the Spain, who can give it back to the Native American Tribes. And while we are at it, we can give the thirteen colonies back to England, and then they can give it back to the Native Americans as well.
FACT: California was a part of Mexico for less than 30 years. From 1821 when they won independence from Spain until 1848 when the Spanish-American war ended. California has now been a part of the USA for 160 years... By my reasoning, SPAIN has more right to California's land than Mexico.
Posted by Freedom1 on September 18, 2008 at 4:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Mr. Sanchez, wars are never "just" to those that lose it. Get over it or tell your Mexican-American friends to return to Mexico and make changes to THEIR country which will enable them to have the same wealth and freedoms they seek in the United States. Just a thought.
N_Cash - great response to the author of this piece. Shows his true agenda.
leahb78_1999 - also a great response.
Posted by ReadMyLipsNoNewTaxes on September 18, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"...then the oppression of the Mexican Government that continues to happen this day, ..."
That is sooooo true.
I wish the illegals would go 'home' and fix their goverment rather than trying to change ours.
Posted by gramagracie on September 18, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Joe, evey war we have had we have had prominent people who are against it, even WWII. People like Joe Kennedy and Lindburg who were supportive of the Nazi Regime in Germany. This still doesn't negate the fact that Mexico signed a treaty with America after the war and ceded that territory to America. We have indeed redeemed ourselves, improved this land that we "stole" than Mexico would have ever done. Look at the corruption that still exists in Mexico. They oppress their people and still have a class society. Are you telling me that is better for mexicans. Bottom line your story was about Mecha not mexcio and Mecha is a communistic racist organizaton that are only for the "brown" race. Once again I will state, there are only 3 races..Caucasoid, Mongoloid and Negroid, "mexican" is not a race, it is an ethnic group within the Caucasoid race.
Mexico has their military in their southern border! It is apparent that the illegals are flocking over to the side that we "stole", not because they want it back, but because it is a much better lifestyle than the corruption that exists in Mexico. If you want some interesting read, read the Mexico immigraton laws. Or better yet, read their government codes....
Let's not forget that it was not only California that we "stole"...my great, great, greatfather and great, great relatives fought in the side of America in Texas. You should check out some of the history books there. They certainly differ what Mecha is spewing.
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 9:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Hi folks, I'm Joe Sanchez"
sooo, you are JOE Sanchez when appealing to the "white" folks who take offense to your article. but when writing the article, you are JOSE Sanchez? I guess by changing your first name to appease the "white" folk, you thought we would not see right through your agenda? nice try Jose.
I do appreciate you commenting on here though. most of the other writers contributing do not take the time to do so.
Posted by kelly13 on September 18, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Fed up....the mayor of Los Angeles used to be Tony Villa till he got into the Mecha thing. It must be cool to change your name.
After reading the history lesson, I have one question....can I go back and move into the house I used to own in Oxnard 30 years ago and demand the owners take care of me?
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
kelly13 - that is why I always refer to him as "Tony ViVaLaRaza". that guy is such a ahole.
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes I dont need to read anymore....Im happy to see someone is stepping up for my people.....Congrates to MECHa.....MECHa I believe in your ways and I stand by you all the way.....MECHa indicate where I can get ahold of you.....
MECHa I would like to help you out anyway that I can....Again I believe in your ways....I 100% stand by you....
I hope to hear about you more.....Dont ever loose focus and continue to stay strong....Our people need you...
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
big surprise. someone who actually has claimed to be an illegal is backing mecha. at least he has learned to use spellcheck. oh wait, nevermind.
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 11:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
People talk about us but what about the blacks who have Black Colleges, Black Television, Black this Black that.....Everyone excepts that but you guys dont want to except us....
We are not going away....We are getting stronger....Like someone said we have Latinos who are Dr., Lawyers, Police Offices, Mayors....We are getting stronger and stronger....
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
FedUp nice to see you again....I was hopeing you would come on to correct my spelling.....Thanks dont go anywhere because Im going to need your help.....You have to admit that you love our people.....Are you sure your not half Mexican???
Posted by mac_tire_224 on September 18, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
We are getting stronger and stronger....
Stronger for what?
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
actually my heritage is spanish, danish. however, I consider myself an american. and you're right. I do enjoy people from mexico. I enjoy the food, the culture, etc. I just don't like the illegals, and the people who are trying to turn the USA into mexico. people are fleeing mexico by the millions. why would they come here, only to try and make it exactly like the place they fled? it makes ZERO sense. much like most of your ramblings.
and I do believe that BET, and other things like that are wrong. however, because of the good ol' ACLU, we have stuff like this around.
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 11:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Its funny that when articles like this come out the same pople are the only ones who ever say anything.....
I guess you are the some people who sit and wait for articles like this to come out....Wow, sorry but if you wanted to make change why not run for office like my people are doing....We are making change....
By the way FedUp I never once said I was illegal....I am however from Mexico....Just thought to clear that up...
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 12:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
actually coach, you did refer to yourself as illegal on a couple of different occasions.
and no, I do not sit around waiting for articles like this to come out, so I can comment on them. I do write emails, send faxes, etc to our elected officials, hoping they will make changes to help our country and state become a better place.
I am not a politician, therefore I will not run for office like "your people". who are "your people" anyways. americans, or mexicans? you seem to be very conflicted. maybe you are a good fit for mecha. too bad you dont even have the common sense to locate a chapter.
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 12:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FedUp I see your point however many of us who come hear to work and start new lives also try to be productive citizens....Many of my friends who came hear from mexico have paid the ultimate sacrafice by fighting for the US...Also we have become Police Offices, City Workers, Fire Fighters, ect....We also belive in the American Dream....Why cant you ever see the good in that?
Yes many work in the fields because thats all they do....but now that the laws have changed youll find many who are working in the field with proper paper work....We are complying with the laws.....
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 12:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FedUp I will say this once again....I came from Mexico when I was three....Maybe my grammer is not the best but I will try to get my point out when I can....
As you can see I think faster than I type.....I do make errors.....It happends....
You seem like the type of person who gets off when people make mistakes....Ive never been that type of person....Im not hear to talk down to anyone just someone who trys to express his opinion.....Hope you can understand....
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Why cant you ever see the good in that?"
who said I can't see the good in people who come here LEGALLY looking for a better life? you are the one who can not see the difference between ILLEGAL & LEGAL. perhaps you should pick up a websters dictionary, and look up the definitions of those two words.
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 12:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FedUp, you said better place.....What do you mean by better place? Do you mean send all illegals back home? Do you mean give soo called Americans back their jobs? Do you mean have everyone listen to American Music and everyone to only speak English? Is that what you mean when you said that the country and state to become a better place? Maybe for you but not all feel that way....
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 12:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FedUp then what I am trying to understand is that all you want to everyone to become LEGAL....Is that your only issues? I'm trying to understand you.
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"What do you mean by better place?"
you know, the basics. less crime, better healthcare for all those here legally, better education. the simple things really.
"you want to everyone to become LEGAL"
are you really this clueless? I dont want everyone to become legal. I want everyone who has a dream of becoming an american citizen, to go through the proper channels. everyone who is here illegally, needs to go back to their country of origin, and get in line.
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 12:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FedUp why do you think people come hear? To sell or use drugs, become gang members, to get drunk or try to change American laws......NO, we come hear to have a better life style....most of us who come hear look for jobs so that we can put food on the table....yet when we do come hear we dont feel bringing our culture is such a bad thing....
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Incase you havent looked many have gone through the proper channels....Many of us do have proper permits....What I have been hearing by soo called Americans is that the Americans are being overtaken by the Mexicans....
What these meat heads dont understand is that many who are hear have proper paper work....You will always have people braking the laws but more are complying with the law....
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 12:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"we dont feel bringing our culture is such a bad thing...."
and it is not a bad thing. being a multi-cultural nation is what makes the USA a great place to live. groups like mecha are not about that though.
re-read this quote that was poster earlier.
“A passage from MEChA's national website reads: ‘As Chicanas and Chicanos of Aztlán, we are a nationalist movement of Indigenous Gente that lay claim to the land that is ours by birthright. As a nationalist movement we seek to free our people from the exploitation of an oppressive society that occupies our land. Thus, the principle of nationalism serves to preserve the cultural traditions of La Familia de La Raza and promotes our identity as a Chicana/Chicano Gente.”
this is a racist group, who is trying to take what is not rightfully theirs. and you back them 100%. hey, maybe you are the racist, and not me. :)
Posted by ebrockway on September 18, 2008 at 12:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We know why people come here, and reading the Mecha website we know why they don't do it legally.
It IS an invasion after all, isn't it?
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey for those who say we come to the US to invade....WRONG!!! Has anyone ever herd of Sgt.Rafael Peralta? He was a Marine who died throwing his body on a grenade to save his comrades in Iraq....
He will recieve the Navy Cross....The lives that he saved Im sure where not Mexican.....Guess where he came from? Peralta who was assigned to Hawaii's 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, moved to San Diego from Tijuana as a teenager....
Was he a gang member? NO!!! He worked his butt off just like many of us....And no Im not racist....I have many friends that are White, Black....I coach fulltime....I have no preference of race on who starts.....
I just hate hearing people saying Mexicans go home....You always take our jobs....you guys gang bang....you only use drugs and drink.....We are just like anyone else hoping to live the American dream....
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 1:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We are about family.....Many of us have more than one child.....Guess what I dont recieve Government Asst.....My kids go to a Cathlic School.....My kids are All-Star players....And most important they are very respectful....My son and daughter are the most nicest kids youll ever meet......
I teach them the American way and yes I will make sure that they not forget their Mexican culture.....My son who is eight is very proud to me Mexican/American......
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 2:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Many of us have more than one child"
no kidding?? haha.
"Has anyone ever herd of Sgt.Rafael Peralta?"
good for him. a true AMERICAN hero. he would not be in the service, if he were illegal. the military does not allow illegals.
seriously coach. who on here says anything bad about anyone that is here legally? you need to understand that first, before we go on any further.
this article is about a group who is working to make La Raza a powerful force in the US, by encouraging illegal activity, and being anti-US.
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
No Sgt.Rafael Peralta is a true Mexican/American hero....He came hear illegal.....He served this country well. Just because you come hear illegal doesnt mean their should not be laws that help those who do come hear illegal to become legal.
Many illegals that are now legal have lost there lives for this nation.....Should we not be able to practice our culture hear?
Posted by coach04 on September 18, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What I meant by saying many of us have more than one child is that people come on saying illegals come hear just to have kids so that they can recieve government asst....Wrong, we have kids because family is very important to us....Im sure for the same reason you have kids.....Not so you can recieve government asst.
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 3:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"saying illegals come hear just to have kids so that they can recieve government asst"
wrong again. sort of anyways. thousands of babies have been born in the USA to illegal "parents", some only hours after crossing the border. this means the child is automatically a citizen. this means it makes it tougher on the feds to deport someone with a child who is a citizen. hence the term: "Anchor Baby".
"He came hear illegal"
well, he is a citizen of the USA, otherwise he would not have been in our military.
and you absolutely kill me with comments like this:
"Just because you come hear illegal doesnt mean their should not be laws that help those who do come hear illegal to become legal."
to start with, it should not take me more than two readings to understand what you are trying to say.
secondly, ILLEGAL IS ILLEGAL. why should someone who BROKE THE LAW be allowed any kind of service here?
If someone stole your car, and told you that it was now theirs because they did not have the means to get thier own, does that rightfully make it their car now? that analogy might be a stretch, but you get my point. well maybe not. you dont seem to have a grasp of what ILLEGAL is, so nevermind.
Posted by ebrockway on September 18, 2008 at 4:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well you don't have to be a citizen to serve in the US military, people from the Philippines have been serving for years.
Being here illegally won't preclude you from serving either, as long as you are not LISTED as being here illegally.
No deportation orders, no criminal offences. A sympathetic recruiter can show someone what needs to be done in order to enlist.
Only problem has been after 20 years of service they give you so much time to leave the country. Still can draw retirement, just can't stay here unless the proper papers are filed with immigration, and that has to be done right away, because it could take more than 10 years.
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 4:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
a little info about Sgt. Peralta for you coach.
notice the very last sentence. it stood out to me.
from wikipedia
"Peralta was born on April 7, 1979 in Mexico City. Son of Rafael and Rosa Peralta, the oldest of four siblings Icelda, Karen and Ricardo. He immigrated to the United States and joined the United States Marine Corps as soon as he had a green card. He later became an American citizen while serving in the Marine Corps.
According to accounts, Peralta served the United States with enthusiasm and patriotism: "In his parent's home, on his bedroom walls hung only three items - a copy of the United States Constitution, the Bill of Rights and his boot camp graduation certificate. Before he set out for Fallujah, he wrote to his 14-year old brother, 'be proud of me, bro...and be proud of being an American."
I was incorrect about having to be a citizen though. you only need a green card to be allowed into the armed forces.
Posted by FedUp on September 18, 2008 at 4:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ebrockway - thanks for sharing. I was told by someone who was in the army, that they did not allow non citizens in. I guess they were misinformed as well.
Posted by ebrockway on September 18, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FedUp;
Each servce has it's own rules and requirements. It's possible the Army requires citizenship, naturalized or born, not sure.
I'm almost positive though, someone here after being deported once wouldn't be eligible in any branch.
We need more like Peralta in all branches, outstanding Marine to the end, by all accounts.
Posted by ironwoman on September 18, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
coach04- Not all of the Mexicans you are talking about is like you. Take a look at the California Prison system...now they can claim that for all they want because the majority is Mexican. Sorry but 43% of the 172,000 California inmates are Mexican. Something to be real proud of huh?
I am Mexican as well and not for one second would I EVER join a racist group attempting to reclaim territory that was taken. I was asked once to join MECHA and I laughed. I respect this Country and the people living in it.
Posted by gramagracie on September 18, 2008 at 8:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ironwomen, kudos to you girl....my family said the same thing. Mecha is a anti-government ( American) orginaization and you are not going to join. I did well for myself without Mecha. I made my choices and used the public school system that America provided me with. I did not need anything else but my own "wants and desires". My husband and I are now retired, living in a wonderful country..living off our own resources...Mecha did not do a thing for me. We did it on our own. Because we are AMERICAN MADE...
Posted by coach04 on September 19, 2008 at 8:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Well I will respect everyones choices....We are given the chance to make choices good or wrong....In other countrys you dont get that choice to choose...
I feel strong in knowing that I am Mexican/American....If I was called to fight for the United States I would do it with pride but I will never forget my roots nor my family members who made the sacrafices.....Yes my family also came illegal but because of them I am a Mexican/American.....
Posted by kelly13 on September 19, 2008 at 10:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Coach04...get that chip off your shoulder. This isn't about Mexicans. It is about legal and illegal. If all you Mexican/Americans are so proud of your heritage, why do you go crazy if the word Mexican comes up? The Star can't even give the description of a Mexican if they commit a crime. They are "bald male" etc.
We have huge problems here with illegals. We need to stop rewarding illegal behavior. The first step to doing this is for all of us to come together and become Americans. Legal Americans regardless of what your family roots are. Start considering yourself as American if you are legal. If you are here illegally, you are a citizen of whatever country you belong to. As such, you have to stop becoming our burden.
California has a huge budget deficit and yet we are giving illegal students at the universities billions of dollars in tuition cost. Legal American students from another state don't get that break. Just illegals. Does this sound right to you? It is against the law and for 12 years California has been breaking the law and rewarding illegals. And MEcha is out there advertising it. Mecha is making sure they can promote as many illegals as possible to use our taxpayers money illegally. Does that sound right to you?
This mess we are in has nothing to do with race. It has everything to do with legal and illegal. We have got to reconize that fact and start doing something about it together.
Immigration is totally accepted here in the USA. Illegal entry into our country and not respecting our laws is not
Posted by madmax on September 19, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. This land belongs to us now, and you agreed. Deal with it.
Posted by Twslv05 on September 19, 2008 at 5:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Still Anti-American pro Mexico hate group to me.
Nothing new except the amount of US taxpayer money they take each year.
Posted by coach04 on September 19, 2008 at 6:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey ironwoman I cant do anything about the prison population full of Mexicans like you mentioned....All I can do is be a productive citizen like I am and try to do the right thing....However I will always keep in mind that if someone asks me what is my heritage I will tell them with pride that I am Mexican/American....Not American like everyone hear want me to say....Why be something that Im not?
In my house I practice my culture....I am not doing anything illegal.....Why not be proud of who you are.....I am and will never change for anyone nor would my family...
Posted by coach04 on September 19, 2008 at 6:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Again I dont hate anyone regardless of race....You practice your culture and I will do the same....Does it get people mad if I speak Spanish in public??? If soo why? Dont I have the American right to speak what ever language that I want?
Posted by ironwoman on September 19, 2008 at 7:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey coach- It's not the fact that one practices their culture, it's the fact that racists groups like MECHA exist....and people like you think it's okay. It's not. And yes, please speak English so all of the other non-english speakers can learn. It's sad when kids don't know english by the time they get to kindergarten and they can't even learn from an English speaking teacher.
Anyhow, the prison population...speaks for itself since you are so proud. How embarrassing that our culture can't prevent all of these Mexicans from refraining from criminal activity.
Posted by jill on September 19, 2008 at 10:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is news?
Posted by leahb78_1999 on September 19, 2008 at 10:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If Mexico and its people are so unhappy with the outcome of the Mexican-American war, maybe we should have a do-over to see if they can change the outcome???
Posted by leahb78_1999 on September 19, 2008 at 10:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
By the way, before you all go and say that I am a racist, that was a JOKE!
Posted by coach04 on September 20, 2008 at 4:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
MECHa keep up the hard work....Some may or may not agree with your ideas but I do....After reading and learing more about you I feel that I would like to be part of your group....
Im happy to see that someone is trying to make change.....Again, I 100% support you...
Posted by FedUp on September 20, 2008 at 9:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
once again coach, you have proved yourself to be the only racist on this thread. mecha is a racist, anti american organization. you continue to back them 100%, yet claim to be "mexican-american" and not a racist. you have contradicted yourself again.
Why don't you pack your belongings, and take your fmaily back across the border. we don't need your racist, anti-american views in our country. you are all about separatism. if you feel so strongly about mexico, I suggest you move back, and work to make that place a better country.
Posted by coach04 on September 21, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sorry FedUp but Im good hear.....Just like you express your thoughts I also have the right to express my thoughts.....
FedUp do you like beer? I may drink a beer once a month why dont we have a beer together....In fact it doesnt have to be Mexican Beer.....I'm ok drinking an American made beer.....Except "Coors", that beer is watered down....how about "Budwiser"? Anyways you choose....I would love to meet you....
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