Q: My high school is planning a Cinco de Mayo program. There is a controversy among the students on the type of music each group should use in their acts.
One group thinks that any Latino music is festive and appropriate. The other group believes that only traditional Mexican music is appropriate.
The teachers want to allow many students with tasteful Hispanic acts to participate. What is your opinion on the selection of music for this special Mexican holiday?
Danny: I applaud your high school for attempting to reclaim and celebrate what has, for many, become a national beer holiday and margarita fest. As far as the music goes, mix it up with some “rancheritas, norte o, mariachi, cumbias, corridos” and, of course, Tejano to give it an American twist.
However, while we’re on the topic, I have to be honest with mi gente about this whole Cinco celebration: It does nada for me. I have never had a strong desire, nor a need to partake. Can I get an “Amen?” (Or is that the sound of crickets?)
If you are an avid reader of this column, you know where I’m coming from. I love y culture, live the culture and simply m the culture.
So para mi, it’s all good. If you want to use this celebration to grasp and connect with this beautiful culture, great. But it’s equally fine if you don’t. Have fun!
Lily: Too bad Mr. Cultura, a.k.a. “It’s all about me, Danny,” didn’t really answer the question.
Cinco de Mayo marks Mexico’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 and is not to be confused with Mexico’s ndependence Day (Sept. 16). So it would make sense to expect to hear traditional Mexican music at a fiesta celebrating Mexican heritage.
But if your goal is to be as inclusive as possible and use the day to celebrate all Latino culture, then you should open the event up to any musica Latina, including regetton, salsa y meringue.
Catherine: You can make the event educational and challenge the students planning the event by encouraging them to use traditional Mexican music only. This option would be understandable, but it goes back to what your goals for this event are.
If it were up to me, I’d get the dancing started with all types of Latin music.
I want to echo the applause of mis companeros. It is wonderful that you are supporting the students by planning this fun event. Latino students benefit by celebrating their heritage; other students benefit by broadening their worldview; and everyone benefits by having a good time!
Glossary
rancheritas, norte o, mariachi, cumbias,
corridos: different styles of Mexican music, but all are traditional
mi gente: my people
nada: nothing
para mi: for me
musica Latina: Latin music
regetton, salsa y meringue: different types of Latin music (as opposed to strictly Mexican)
mis compa eros: my companions
Consejos is a bilingual advice column focused on relationships, culture and identity. E-mail your questions or comments to consejos@dallasnews.com. Or send your letters to Consejos, c/o Texas Living, The Dallas Morning News, 508 Young St., Dallas, TX 75202. Visit Lily, Catherine and Danny online at DallasNews.com/consejos.)
