Q: I am a Latino, born and raised in Dallas. I recently had it out with someone of another ethnic background who was upset and going after everyone verbally. I was singled out because I am Hispanic. He told me that I needed to go back to where I came from.
I told him I already was there. It got worse, and he kept coming after me verbally. I told him that this once was Mexico, that we offer so much in terms of food, culture, music and more, and that if anyone was out of place it was he. Did I say the right thing? My grandfather used to tell me to never forget where I came from. What is your opinion?
Catherine: Did you say the right thing? Yes, technically you are right that Texas was a part of Mexico until 1836, when it declared its independence. However, I fail to see anything productive about throwing this fact in someone’s face.
Your acquaintance sounds like an immature man who is looking for an argument. Immature people tend to be scared of differences instead of being able to appreciate them. They use these differences as a way to divide. By shouting that “if anyone was out of place it was he,” you have joined him in his immaturity and perpetuated this division.
As Americans and people of the same community, our goal should be to strive for unity while appreciating our diversity.
Lily: Ask Danny and Catherine, and they will tell you that Militant Lily has often used the phrase, “This was once Mexico.” Your abuelo is right: Roots are what allow you to grow in this world. But when someone becomes verbally abusive, you are no longer talking to someone with class, and you don’t want to stoop to his or her level.
You won’t win against ignorance. Holding strong to your opinion doesn’t necessarily mean having the last word. As hard as it is, you just have to walk away. We are all from “here” – we just took different routes.
Danny: You are an American, and never forgetting where you came from does not mean you cannot be proud of where you are from. You were dealing with an ignorant and hateful fool. Six flags flew over Texas, and you need not justify with history your right to be here.
This country is reaching a boiling point on the whole immigration issue and the question of who belongs where. Everyone seems to forget that you, I and others like us are Americans by birth and patriots by choice.
We may speak two languages, but this alone links us to another country or culture. How does that make us not belong? We look a bit different, and our last names are hard to pronounce, but so what? Say my name however you want. It will not change its roots or its cultural history, and it certainly does not make me any less of an American. If you are proud to be an American, then say it and be it. The rest of society will never let you forget where you came from.
Glossary
abuelo: grandfather
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