If you think Cinco De Mayo is just an excuse to drink margaritas and wear a sombrero, you are not alone. But there is a real story behind the day, and it is not Mexican Independence Day—no matter what your local bar’s chalkboard says.
🎉 The Real Story: Cinco De Mayo marks the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, when a scrappy Mexican army beat the French on May 5, 1862. Yes, you read that right. It is not about independence. It is about a single, unlikely win against a much bigger force. In Mexico, the day is mostly celebrated in the state of Puebla with parades and reenactments. For the rest of Mexico, it is just another day on the calendar.
🍹 Party Time in America: In the United States, Cinco De Mayo has taken on a life of its own. Here, it is a full-blown party. Think street festivals, mariachi bands, and enough tacos to feed a small army. For many, it is a way to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage. For others, it is a reason to order that extra round of guacamole. Either way, it is a big deal—especially in cities with large Mexican-American communities.
🇺🇸 The Hypocrisy: Cinco De Mayo is more than just a party. It is a reminder of the deep roots Mexican culture has in the United States. There are many Mexican families in the western part of the country who have been here longer than the United States has been a country. In a time when immigration is a hot topic, the day is a chance to see how Mexican traditions have shaped American life. It is also a moment to think about how we treat our neighbors— whether they just moved here or their families have been here for generations. It is a time to reflect on how much we as a society value Mexican culture, but don’t always value the people that culture represents.
🗣️ Take Action: If you are heading out to celebrate, maybe skip the fake mustache and take a minute to learn the real story. Support local Mexican-owned businesses. Try something new from the menu. And if you are feeling bold, brush up on your Spanish. Just do not call it Mexican Independence Day— unless you want to get an eye roll from anyone who knows better. Remember, the people who own that restaurant where you drink your Margaritas are people too and deserve dignity and respect. Their ancestors were living on this continent long before your ancestors arrived.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
