We are stronger together. Knowledge is Power, Our Lands, Our Right!
Mexicans, Mexican-Americans, Latinos, Chicanos we are stronger together. We come from a strong and intelligent history.
Be Proud, Be Strong!
Welcome to Mexicans Aren't Going Anywhere
Welcome to our website, where we delve into the rich and vibrant history of Mexicans and our profound impact on the Americas. Mexican history is a tapestry woven with diverse cultures, significant events, and influential figures that have shaped not only the nation itself but also the broader American continent.
Ancient Beginnings
Ancient Civilizations
From the ancient civilizations of the Aztecs and Mayans to the colonial era and the fight for independence, Mexico's history is filled with stories of resilience, innovation, and cultural fusion. The contributions of Mexican history to the Americas are vast and varied, influencing everything from art and architecture to politics and social movements.
By exploring the importance of Mexican history, we gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical connections that bind the Americas together. Join us on this journey through time as we uncover the pivotal moments and enduring legacies that continue to shape our world today.
What were we!!!!
The Aztecs and Mayans were two of the most advanced civilizations in Mesoamerica, each with their own remarkable accomplishments.
Aztecs:
- Agriculture: The Aztecs developed innovative agricultural techniques, such as chinampas (floating gardens), which allowed them to grow crops on the shallow lake beds in the Valley of Mexico.
- Architecture: They built impressive structures, including the Templo Mayor in Tenochtitlan, which was the center of their religious life.
- Mathematics: The Aztecs had a sophisticated number system and used it for various purposes, including trade and astronomy.
- Military Prowess: The Aztecs were known for their military strength and strategic alliances, which helped them expand their empire.
Mayans:
- Astronomy: The Mayans had an advanced understanding of astronomy and developed complex calendar systems, including the Calendar Round and the Long Count.
- Agriculture: They figured out how to grow crops like corn, beans, squash, and cassava in challenging environments.
- Engineering: The Mayans built elaborate cities without modern machinery, showcasing their engineering skills.
- Written Language: The Mayans developed one of the world's first written languages, made up of about 800 glyphs.
These accomplishments highlight the ingenuity and resilience of the Aztecs and Mayans, and their contributions continue to influence modern society.
Arrival of Spaniards
The arrival of the Spaniards marked a significant turning point for the Aztec and Mayan civilizations, leading to their eventual demise.
Aztecs: The fall of the Aztec Empire began with the arrival of Hernán Cortés in 1519. Cortés and his men, equipped with advanced weaponry and aided by local allies who were discontented with Aztec rule, managed to capture the Aztec emperor Montezuma III. The Spaniards' superior military technology, combined with the spread of diseases like smallpox, which devastated the indigenous population, led to the collapse of the Aztec resistance. After a prolonged siege, the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan fell in 1521, marking the end of the Aztec Empire.
Mayans: The Spanish conquest of the Maya was a more protracted conflict. Unlike the Aztecs, the Mayans were not unified under a single empire but were organized into various city-states. This made the Spanish conquest more complex and drawn out. The Spaniards gradually incorporated the territory of the Late Postclassic Maya states into the colonial Viceroyalty of New Spain. The last Maya city, Nojpetén, fell to the Spanish in 1697. The combination of military conquest, disease, and the disruption of their social and economic systems led to the decline of the Mayan civilization.
The Spaniards' arrival brought about significant changes, including the introduction of European diseases, military conquest, and the imposition of colonial rule, which ultimately led to the downfall of these once-great civilizations.
Religion the tool to Conquer
The Aztec and Mayan religions were rich and complex belief systems that played central roles in their respective societies.
Aztec Religion: The Aztec religion was polytheistic, meaning they believed in multiple gods and goddesses. Some of the most important deities included Huitzilopochtli, the god of sun and war, and Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god. The Aztecs believed in a cyclical view of time, with the universe being destroyed and recreated in a series of cycles. Human sacrifice was a significant aspect of Aztec religious practices, as they believed it was necessary to appease the gods and ensure the continuation of the world. The Aztecs also had a complex cosmology, dividing the universe into three realms: the heavens, the earth, and the underworld.
Mayan Religion: The Mayan religion was also polytheistic, featuring a pantheon of gods and goddesses, including Itzamna, the god of creation, and Ixchel, the goddess of fertility. The Mayans had a more linear view of time and believed in a final apocalypse. Bloodletting rituals were an essential part of Mayan religious practices, as they believed it was a way to communicate with the gods and maintain balance in the world. The Mayans also had a complex cosmology, with the universe divided into multiple layers and levels, connected by a cosmic tree that served as a bridge between the earthly and divine worlds.
Both the Aztec and Mayan religions placed a strong emphasis on the importance of rituals and ceremonies in maintaining social order and ensuring the prosperity of their civilizations.
The Catholic religion played a significant role in the Spanish conquest and colonization of the Aztec and Mayan civilizations. The Spaniards used religion as a tool to strip these indigenous peoples of their cultural identities and establish control over them. This was never their own religion or belief systems.
Aztecs: The Spaniards, led by Hernán Cortés, arrived in the Aztec Empire in 1519. They quickly realized that converting the Aztecs to Catholicism would be a powerful way to undermine their existing social and religious structures. The Spaniards destroyed Aztec temples and idols, replacing them with Catholic churches and symbols. They forced the Aztecs to abandon their traditional religious practices and adopt Catholic rituals. This religious conversion was often violent and coercive, with many Aztecs being baptized under duress. By imposing Catholicism, the Spaniards aimed to erase the Aztec cultural identity and replace it with a Spanish one, making it easier to control and govern the population.
Mayans: The Spanish conquest of the Maya was a more prolonged and complex process. The Spaniards used similar tactics to those employed against the Aztecs, destroying Mayan religious sites and replacing them with Catholic churches. They also targeted Mayan religious leaders, who were seen as key figures in maintaining the traditional social order. By converting the Mayans to Catholicism, the Spaniards sought to dismantle the existing power structures and integrate the Mayans into the Spanish colonial system. The introduction of Catholicism also served to justify the Spanish conquest, as the Spaniards believed they were saving the souls of the indigenous people by converting them to Christianity.
The imposition of Catholicism was a crucial aspect of the Spanish strategy to dominate the Aztec and Mayan civilizations. It allowed the Spaniards to weaken the indigenous cultures, establish their own authority, and legitimize their colonial rule.
Important People in Our History
Dolores Huerta
Gilberto Gerena Valentín
Dolores Huerta
Huerta was a key figure alongside Cesar Chavez in the farm workers' movement. She played a crucial role in organizing strikes and advocating for workers' rights. Huerta is also known for coining the phrase "Sí, se puede" (Yes, we can), which became a rallying cry for various civil rights causes.
Joan baez
Gilberto Gerena Valentín
Dolores Huerta
Baez, a Mexican American folk singer, lent her music to the civil rights movement. She incorporated anti-discrimination policies into her concert tours and performed at key events, including the 1963 March on Washington.
Gilberto Gerena Valentín
Gilberto Gerena Valentín
Gilberto Gerena Valentín
Valentín was the president of the Puerto Rican Day Parade and played a significant role in mobilizing Latinos to participate in civil rights demonstrations. He worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and helped organize the March on Washington.
Bert Corona
Reies Tijerina
Gilberto Gerena Valentín
Corona was an influential activist who fought for the rights of Mexican Americans and immigrants. He was involved in various civil rights campaigns and worked to address issues such as poverty and discrimination.
Reies Tijerina
Reies Tijerina
Reies Tijerina
Tijerina was a leader in the Chicano Movement and advocated for land rights and social justice for Mexican Americans. He organized protests and fought against the injustices faced by his community.
More Important People
Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales
Pancho Villa, born José Doroteo Arango Arámbula
Pancho Villa, born José Doroteo Arango Arámbula
Gonzales was a prominent figure in the Chicano Movement and is best known for his poem "I Am Joaquin," which became a symbol of Chicano identity. He founded the Crusade for Justice and worked to address issues such as education and political representation.
Pancho Villa, born José Doroteo Arango Arámbula
Pancho Villa, born José Doroteo Arango Arámbula
Pancho Villa, born José Doroteo Arango Arámbula
A prominent revolutionary general in Mexico during the early 20th century. He played a significant role in the Mexican Revolution, fighting against the regimes of both Porfirio Díaz and Victoriano Huerta. Villa was known for his guerrilla tactics and his ability to mobilize and lead large groups of fighters. He became a symbol of resistance and a champion of the underprivileged, earning a reputation as Mexico's Robin Hood.
Villa's most notable actions included his participation in the Battle of Ciudad Juárez and the Battle of Columbus. He was also involved in civil war and banditry after 1914. Despite his controversial methods, Villa's efforts were instrumental in challenging the oppressive regimes and advocating for social justice.
Emiliano Zapata
Pancho Villa, born José Doroteo Arango Arámbula
Venustiano Carranza
Zapata was another key figure in the Mexican Revolution, known for his leadership of the agrarian movement in southern Mexico. He fought for land reform and the rights of peasants, advocating for the redistribution of land to the poor.
Venustiano Carranza
Venustiano Carranza
Venustiano Carranza
Carranza was a leader in the Mexican Revolution who opposed the dictatorship of Victoriano Huerta. He played a crucial role in the drafting of the Mexican Constitution of 1917, which aimed to address social and economic inequalities.
Francisco Madero
Venustiano Carranza
Francisco Madero
Madero was an early leader of the Mexican Revolution who challenged the dictatorship of Porfirio Díaz. His efforts to promote democratic reforms and social justice laid the groundwork for the revolution.
Our Contributions to Philosophy & Critical Thinking
Philisophical & Critial Thinking
Mexico has a rich tradition of philosophical thought, with several prominent philosophers who have made significant contributions to various fields. Here are some notable Mexican philosophers:
Gabino Barreda: Barreda was a 19th-century philosopher who played a crucial role in introducing positivism to Mexico. He believed in the importance of scientific knowledge and education for societal progress.
Enrique Dussel: Dussel is a contemporary philosopher known for his work in ethics, political philosophy, and liberation theology. He has made significant contributions to the philosophy of liberation, which focuses on social justice and the rights of marginalized communities.
José Gaos: Gaos was a Spanish philosopher who became a prominent figure in Mexican philosophy after fleeing Spain during the Spanish Civil War. He contributed to the development of existentialism and phenomenology in Mexico.
Juana Inés de la Cruz: Juana Inés de la Cruz, also known as Sor Juana, was a 17th-century philosopher, poet, and scholar. She is celebrated for her contributions to literature and her advocacy for women's education and intellectual rights.
Luis Villoro: Villoro was a 20th-century philosopher who focused on issues of identity, culture, and democracy. His work has had a profound impact on Mexican philosophy and political thought.
Ramón Xirau: Xirau was a philosopher and poet known for his contributions to existentialism and phenomenology. He explored themes of love, death, and the human condition in his work.
These philosophers have played pivotal roles in shaping Mexican philosophical thought and have left lasting legacies in their respective fields.
Latino Contributions in other areas
We are more than their gardners...
Mexican scientists have made significant contributions to various fields of science in recent years. Here are some notable examples:
Ynés Mexía: Ynés Mexía was a Mexican-American botanist who made remarkable contributions to botany. Despite starting her career at the age of 55, she collected over 1500 plant species during her travels across North and South America. Mexía was the first botanist to collect samples in Denali National Park and advocated for Indigenous and women's rights.
César Milstein: Although born in Argentina, César Milstein's work has had a global impact. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1984 for his development of monoclonal antibodies, which are used in pregnancy tests, blood cell typing, and detecting viruses and bacterial diseases.
Hispanic Inventors: Hispanic inventors, including those from Mexico, have made considerable contributions to science and technology. Their innovations range from the first electrical submarine to transdermal medical patches, showcasing the diverse and talented Hispanic community.
These contributions highlight the ingenuity and dedication of Mexican scientists and inventors, who continue to shape the world with their groundbreaking work.
Civil Rights & The Chicano Movement
Early Civil Rights Issues for Chicanos
During the 1960s, Mexican Americans faced significant civil rights challenges and were often denied basic rights and opportunities. Here are some key areas where their civil rights were denied:
1. Education: Mexican American students were frequently subjected to segregated and inferior educational facilities. They were often placed in separate schools or classrooms and received a substandard education compared to their white counterparts.
2. Employment: Mexican Americans faced widespread employment discrimination. They were often relegated to low-paying, menial jobs and were denied opportunities for advancement. Many Mexican American workers, particularly in agriculture, were subjected to exploitative working conditions.
3. Voting Rights: Despite being U.S. citizens, many Mexican Americans were effectively disenfranchised through discriminatory practices such as literacy tests, poll taxes, and other barriers that prevented them from exercising their right to vote.
4. Housing: Mexican Americans were often denied access to quality housing and were subjected to discriminatory practices such as redlining, which restricted their ability to buy homes in certain neighborhoods.
5. Legal Rights: Mexican Americans faced significant barriers in the legal system. They were often denied fair trials and were subjected to discriminatory treatment by law enforcement and the courts.
These civil rights denials led to the rise of the Chicano Movement, which sought to address these injustices and fight for the rights and equality of Mexican Americans.
The term "Chicano" has a complex history and its use evolved significantly over time. Initially, "Chicano" was used in a derogatory manner to refer to working-class Mexican Americans, particularly those born in the United States who were seen as disconnected from Mexico’s cultural roots. However, by the 1960s, during the Chicano Movement, the term was reclaimed as a badge of pride.
The Chicano Movement, also known as El Movimiento, was a civil rights movement within the Chicano community in the 20th century. It was inspired and entwined with the Black Power Movement and aimed to combat structural racism and police brutality through the open rejection of assimilation and the celebration of newfound cultural expression. The movement sought to end discrimination against Mexican Americans in all aspects of society and to acquire self-determination for Chicano youth of future generations. By reclaiming the term "Chicano," activists embraced their cultural identity and used it as a symbol of resistance and empowerment.
The Mexican Flag
People love to wave the flag...
I see heartfelt people waving the Mexican flag in favor, to support, to draw attention in times of protest of all ages. I always wonder, though, how many actually know what it means and represents.
What does it mean?
When the Mexican flag waves in the air, it is more than fabric. The flag’s colors and symbol represent specific items. The flag is a vertical tricolor of green, white, and red, featuring the Mexican Coat of Arms. The colors of the flag have significant meanings:
· Green stands for hope.
· White symbolizes unity.
· Red represents the blood of heroes who lost their lives fighting for independence.
The Coat of Arms
The Coat of Arms in the center of the flag depicts an eagle holding a snake in its beak and talon, perched on a prickly pear cactus. This imagery is based on an Aztec legend that describes how the Aztecs chose the location to build their capital, Tenochtitlan.
The Coat of Arms represents a myth that shows how the Aztecs selected the site where they built their capital, Tenochtitlan. Legend has it that Tenoch, the leader of the nomadic Aztecs, was informed by their god of war, Huitzilopochtli, that they would settle in a place where they would find an eagle eating a snake on a prickly pear
The Flag
The Mexican flag's design was adopted in 1821, but the Coat of Arms was revised in 1968. The eagle on the Coat of Arms was changed to a side-facing position from a front-facing one. The flag's colors were initially meant to represent the union of Europeans and Americans (red), religion (white), and independence (green). However, these meanings changed during the secularization of Mexico under President Juarez. Currently, the red stripe stands for the blood of heroes, white means unity, and green stands for hope.
Mexicans and the Trump Administration
We are in a time and place when the color brown is being targted
Not my President Trump's policies and rhetoric have created challenges for the Mexican community in the United States. His administration's racist approach to immigration, trade, and security has had significant impacts on this community. This has to be a wake up call to our community. Move beyond the stereotype. We are more than their busboys, farmhands, gardeners, and freeway flower sellers. Since before Spanish and European arrival we have ruled these lands. Even now we hold positions in politics, media, and civil servants. As my Mom would tell me, "Mijo I send you to white schools not to be white. I send you to white schools because I want to be able to be proud of being Mexican but be able to live in their world". My Mom was right, but this has always been our land our place our world.
Immigration: President Trump's strict immigration policies, including increased racially profiled deportations directed at brown people and the construction of a border wall, have caused fear and uncertainty among Mexican immigrants. Many families have been separated, and the threat of deportation has disrupted lives and communities.
Trade: Trump's threats to impose tariffs on Mexican goods have strained economic relations between the U.S. and Mexico. These tariffs could negatively impact businesses and workers in both countries, leading to economic instability.
Security: The administration's focus on dismantling criminal cartels has led to increased militarization at the border, affecting the daily lives of those living in border communities. This approach has also strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Overall, President Trump's policies have created a challenging environment for the Mexican community in the United States, affecting their economic stability, security, and overall well-being. He obviously has overlooked our past!
Recently, there have been significant concerns regarding violations committed by ICE agencies during deportations of Mexicans in the United States. Civil rights attorneys have raised alarms about the disappearance of 48 New Mexico residents following their arrests by federal immigration enforcement agents. These individuals were described as "illegal aliens" by ICE, but only 21 had final orders of removal from the country. The whereabouts of these individuals remain unknown, and there is uncertainty about whether they have access to counsel or in what conditions they are being held. This situation has been described as a serious human rights violation, as enforced disappearances are prohibited by both the U.S. Constitution and international human rights standards.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Mexico has filed a federal complaint, highlighting the lack of transparency and accountability in ICE's actions. Families of the detained individuals are left in agonizing uncertainty, desperate to contact their loved ones and ensure their safety. This issue underscores the broader challenges and violations faced by the Mexican community during deportations.
President Trump's immigration policies have led to several deportation violations in California, causing significant challenges for immigrant communities. The administration's approach included mass deportations and sweeping raids targeting undocumented immigrants or alleged undocumented. These actions have resulted in numerous arrests and deportations, often without due process or adequate legal representation.
One notable violation involved the deportation of a 10-year-old U.S. citizen recovering from brain cancer after her undocumented parents were arrested. This case highlights the harsh impact of the administration's policies on vulnerable individuals and families.
Immigrant rights advocates in California have been mobilizing to protect communities from these raids and deportations. They have been hosting workshops, sharing legal advice, and offering "Know Your Rights" training to help individuals avoid becoming targets1. Organizations like the Immigrant Defenders Law Center have launched rapid response legal resource hotlines to assist residents detained by immigration authorities.
These efforts underscore the broader challenges and violations faced by the Mexican community during deportations in California.
Resources
At the end of this section, I've listed some organizations that may be of some assistance.
Some Notable Resources
below ar some resource
There are several civil rights organizations in California that provide support and assistance to immigrants. Here are a few notable ones:
California Immigrant Policy Center (CIPC): Address: 1225 8th St Ste 485, Sacramento, CA, 95814 Phone Number: (916) 448-6762 mail: esifuentes@caimmigrant.org, esifuentes@caimmigrant.org (Media Contact: Edward Sifuentes, Communications Director)
CIPC is a statewide immigrant rights organization with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Oakland. They advocate for policies that uphold the humanity of immigrants and refugees while advancing racial, social, and economic justice. CIPC provides resources to protect and defend immigrant communities from threats and attacks.
Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC): Address: 1458 Howard St, San Francisco, CA, 94103 Phone Number: (415) 255-9499
ILRC is a national organization that supports legal advocates working on behalf of immigrants' rights. They provide training, technical assistance, and educational materials to help immigrants navigate the legal system.
CHIRLA - The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights: 2533 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA, 90057 Phone Number: (213) 353-1333 Email: info@chirla.org
CHIRLA is a leading organization in California that advocates for the rights of immigrants. They offer a range of services, including legal consultations, worker abuse protection, and assistance with DACA and citizenship applications. CHIRLA also conducts community education and "know-your-rights" presentations.
Community Foundation of the Valleys: Address: 5121 Van Nuys Blvd., Suite 200, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 Phone Number: (818) 377-6386 Email: [info@valleygiving.org]
This foundation aims to inspire, encourage, and facilitate charitable giving for lasting impact on those who live in the San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita Valley. They support various community initiatives, including those that benefit immigrants.
These organizations are dedicated to supporting and empowering immigrant communities in the San Fernando Valley, ensuring they have access to the resources and protections they need.
The Mexican Consulate General in Los Angeles is located at: Address: 2401 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA, 90057 Phone Number: (213) 351-6800 Email: [lapublico@sre.gob.mx](lapublico@sre.gob.mx), [mcelorio@sre.gob.mx](mcelorio@sre.gob.mx)
Office Hours:
· Monday to Friday: 07:00 - 14:45
· Saturday and Sunday: Closed
The consulate provides various services, including consular assistance, visa processing, passport services, and legalization services.
Private Law Firms:
Moaddel Law Firm, APC
Immigration & Criminal Defens - Phone: (888) 777-0042
3435 Wilshire Blvd #2430
Los Angeles, CA 90010