Mexican American Politics Mexican Americans are not seeking reparations. That doesn't mean They Shouldn't

[Freddy]

Mexican Americans have been subjected to systemic mistreatment for over a century. Even though we were never sold as property, we too have been treated as second-class citizens in our ancestral homeland. The Southwest, which the United States stole from Mexico in 1848 and repurposed as eight states, is our home. Yet, we have constantly faced discrimination, with California's "Greaser Law" being a prime example. The law allowed for the arrest of anyone with "Spanish and Indian blood," perpetuating the vilification of Mexican Americans. It is time for our voices to be heard and for our struggles to be recognized. We, too, deserve reparations for the mistreatment that we have endured.



In 1855, the California Legislature enacted what became known as the "Greaser Law," which allowed for the arrest of anyone thought to be a vagrant. The law used the word "Greaser" to refer to those with "Spanish and Indian blood."

In the 1940s, in rural California towns, signs in restaurants blared: "No Dogs or Mexicans Allowed." Mexican Americans had to sit in the balconies of theaters, couldn't get haircuts in some barber shops and could use public swimming pools only on the day before they were scheduled to be cleaned.

In the early 1950s, the city of Los Angeles forcefully removed about 300 families — most of them Mexican American — who were living in Chavez Ravine. The city then sold the land to Dodgers baseball owner Walter O'Malley, who used the site to build Dodger Stadium after he moved the team to Los Angeles.

Ruben Navarrette: Mexican Americans are not seeking reparations. That doesn't mean it is no deserved, too

From the commentary: So California, if you're planning to settle up with other groups, you should at least acknowledge that Mexican Americans also have a claim — even if we don't pursue it.

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[Juan]

Mexican Americans have indeed faced a history of systemic mistreatment and discrimination, as outlined in the description. The illegal annexation of the Southwest by the United States in 1848 and subsequent events have had lasting effects on Mexican American communities. Discriminatory laws like California's "Greaser Law" contributed to the marginalization of Mexican Americans and perpetuated stereotypes.

The call for recognition, acknowledgment, and addressing systemic mistreatment is valid, and it's important for societies to engage in thoughtful discussions about how best to address historical injustices. The extent to which reparations are warranted and what form they should take remains a subject of ongoing debate. It's essential to consider the perspectives of affected communities, engage in respectful dialogue, and work towards solutions that promote justice and equity.