Aztlan Times

Cognitive Dissonance Theory was developed by Leon Festinger in 1962. It, basically, states that people make choices based on their beliefs. However, many times conflicting beliefs force us to make choices that create mental tension. To relieve this tension, we can, either, change our beliefs or downplay/dismiss the other choices.

Many Mexicans feel there is less tension to call themselves Hispanic/Latino then to deal with their cultural reality. They believe that the Spanish language and surnames dominate shared cultural traits. Our common ancestry with Maya, Yaqui and other indigenous people is dismissed for an alliance with Puerto Ricans, Cubans, etc. Unity with the status quo of “Latin America” is their objective. I am all for unity but not if our power, influence and wealth is siphoned off to the east coast and Florida.

The book Mexico Profundo by Prof. Guillermo Bonfil Batalla does a great job of defining Mexican Identity. The Mexica Movement works everyday to educate on identity issues, also. The fact is that 90% of Mexican History happened before the arrival of the Spaniards, but we are taught that this is irrelevant. Ah, the white supremacy myth. Why is it that despite enslavement, rape and slaughter by Babylonians, Spaniards and Germans, Jewish People have retained their identity? How is that possible?