Embracing ‘roots’ is part of America

Call it tradition. Call it custom. Call it heritage. No matter how you choose to describe it, most people cling to behavior that has shaped their lives. That's just a natural trait.

Some of these "roots," if that's how you choose to term it, comes from family. Other parts of the equation derive from regional influence. Much of it is cultural. And some of it can be traced to ethnic influence.

That said, we feel sorry for those who feel threatened by events and celebrations that don't fit into their realm of comfort.

Folding of foreign culture into the "American way" is a natural progression that has always been a part of this nation's evolution.
Invariably, when large numbers of people with specific traditions from other countries inhabit a certain region of the United States,

the social landscape is changed.

For instance, there is a distinct French flavor to areas of Louisiana and even parts of East Texas. That background has blended with the local customs over decades and even centuries to produce the Cajun culture.

Earlier in this nation's history, large number of European immigrants left a permanent mark on the East Coast, where many of them settled. One of the most enduring influences came from the Irish.

West Texas happens to have a proximity to Mexico. And large numbers of Mexicans have come to this area ... and continue to settle here.

They have brought traditions and customs with them. They are not forcing them on the people who choose not to celebrate them. But they don't mind sharing their heritage with those who choose to sample them.

So there is nothing threatening or sinister about the Cinco de Mayo and Diez y Seis festivities that draw large number of Hispanics - and lots of curious Americans of different ethnic backgrounds.

Most so-called red-blooded Americans aren't upset by observances of St. Patrick's Day or the German-based fall festivals that feature copious amounts of beer and food.

But Hispanic heritage rankles some. Perhaps the influence is too new by historic standards. The Irish and German events have been around for generations. Mexican celebrations are fairly new to the amalgamation of America. But it is already blending into the American way. And, heck, even the Texas way of doing things. We've claimed something known as Tex-Mex cuisine as our own. Something known as Tejano music has carved out a niche.

Lots of folks feel the need to embrace the things that shaped their lives, no matter how much they've changed and adapted.
For that reason, why shouldn't these Mexican holidays be a part of our melting pot? In fact, we applaud who plan and support these activities - and encourage other Americans of different backgrounds to come sample their fun.

There's nothing sinister about celebrating your heritage.