Feliz Cinco de Mayo! At the Kalish Law Office, we just have a few reminders for you on this cultural holiday.
- Cinco de Mayo is not the independence day of Mexico. Although it is often confused with that date, independence day for Mexico is actually on September 16. So then what does Cinco de Mayo celebrate? Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of an unlikely victory over the French on May the 5th, 1862. This celebration, however, is not prevalent in Mexico. It is largely based in the United States. This fact is important to remember while partaking in the celebration.
- Cinco de Mayo is often used as an reason to drink alcohol. In 2015, a CDC report revealed that 6 Americans die every day from alcohol poisoning. If you have problems with alcohol, we advise you to monitor the amount you decide to drink and be wary of the very real consequences. And of course, don’t drink and drive!
- Sometimes, on this holiday, non-Mexicans decide to dress up in racist caricatures of Mexicans. We would like to remind you not to be that person. It is important to remember that the exaggeration of certain characteristics can lead to the dehumanization of cultures. In a globally-oriented world, we remind you to appreciate the culture rather than appropriate it.
Thank you for your consideration. If you need legal help, schedule a consultation with the Kalish Law Office at 281-363-3700.