Chicano

ChicanoPowerCSULA

EL PASO'S SECOND WARD, A CHICANO NEIGHBORHOOD WHICH IS LOSING ITS ETHNIC FLAVOR IN THE WAKE OF URBAN RENEWAL - NARA - 545351

Women's March LA 2019 (46753441972)

Aztec drums, Florentine Codex.

Chicana Town 1562 Map

Chicano refers to a chosen identity for some Mexican Americans, primarily inhabiting the Southwestern United States, who are of Mexican descent. The term came into popular usage during the Chicano Movement of the 1960s and 1970s, which emphasized pride in the Mexican-American culture and heritage, and sought civil rights and social justice for Mexican Americans. The Chicano Movement addressed issues such as racial discrimination, farm workers' rights, and educational inequality, marking a significant period in the Mexican-American community's fight for equality and recognition.

Origins and Etymology

The word "Chicano" is believed to have originated from the indigenous Nahuatl word "Mexicano" (pronounced as Meshicano), which was anglicized to "Mexican" in English. Over time, "Mexican" became "Chicano" in certain dialects and communities. Initially used in a derogatory manner, the term was reclaimed in the 1960s by young Mexican Americans as a symbol of pride and cultural identity.

Cultural Significance

Chicano culture is a blend of Mexican and American influences, incorporating elements from indigenous Mexican, Spanish, and American traditions. This rich cultural tapestry is evident in Chicano art, music, literature, and cuisine, which often reflect themes of social justice, identity, and resistance against oppression. Chicano art, for instance, is known for its vibrant murals that depict historical and socio-political themes. Similarly, Chicano literature often explores issues of identity, cultural hybridity, and social struggle.

The Chicano Movement

The Chicano Movement, also known as El Movimiento, was a social and political movement that sought to empower Mexican Americans and reclaim their Mexican heritage. It was a part of the broader Civil Rights Movement in the United States, addressing issues such as educational inequality, voting rights, and labor rights for farm workers. Key figures in the movement included Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta, and Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales, who were instrumental in organizing labor strikes, educational reforms, and political activism.

Contemporary Chicano Identity

Today, the term Chicano is embraced by some as a symbol of ethnic pride and cultural identity, while others may prefer terms such as Mexican American or simply American. The Chicano identity continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse experiences and perspectives of Mexican Americans. It remains a powerful expression of resistance against marginalization and a celebration of cultural heritage.

See Also

• Mexican American
• Chicano Movement
• Cesar Chavez
• Dolores Huerta
• Civil Rights Movement