Raza Unida: A Call to Solidarity in Victoria, Texas. In a powerful show of solidarity, a gathering titled “Raza Unida” (United Race) is set to take place in Victoria, Texas. This event comes as a response to the alarming mass deportation policies proposed by President Trump, who has made headlines with his promise to deport 1,000 undocumented immigrants daily.
The rhetoric surrounding these policies has created significant unrest in communities, prompting many to unite against what they see as unjust actions by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), which has been given unprecedented access to schools and churches. The resurgence of “La Raza Unida Party,” founded by political activist, professor, and attorney José Ángel Gutiérrez, raises intriguing questions about the current political landscape, especially considering the party has been dormant for over 50 years.
Founded during the Civil Rights era, La Raza Unida Party sought to empower Mexican Americans and advocate for their rights. One of its most notable achievements was the election of Ramsey Muñiz, who ran for Texas Governor. However, the party’s momentum came to a halt when Muñiz was linked to a drug-related scandal, leading to the party’s disbandment and a subsequent shift of Mexican Americans towards the Republican and Democratic parties.
Could the current political climate, especially under Trump’s administration, be waking up this “SLEEPING GIANT“? As communities come together to express their frustration and seek justice, many wonder if La Raza Unida Party might reclaim its voice in advocating for the rights of Mexican Americans. The growing unrest among voters, particularly those who once supported Trump, indicates a shift in sentiment. Many are now experiencing “voter’s regret,” as they witness the administration’s rollback of initiatives aimed at protecting minority rights, such as the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives.
Interestingly, the stigma surrounding marijuana has diminished significantly since the time of Muñiz, who may have been ahead of his time in advocating for a more progressive approach to issues affecting marginalized communities. With Trump’s own legal troubles and claims of innocence, the narrative of criminal records and redemption resonates with many who once supported Muñiz.
As La Raza Unida gathering approaches, it raises vital questions about the future of Mexican Americans in the political arena. Why is the focus predominantly on the southern border, while issues surrounding immigrants from Canada, Germany, or Britain receive far less attention? The Mexican American community, comprised of hardworking individuals seeking dignity, respect, and the opportunity to care for their families, is now at a crossroads.
The upcoming event in Victoria stands as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Mexican American population. As they gather to voice their concerns and advocate for their rights, one thing is clear: the struggle for justice and equality is far from over. Whether La Raza Unida Party makes a significant comeback remains to be seen, but the current climate certainly suggests that the movement for solidarity and empowerment is alive and well. As this community gathers, they do so with the hope of creating a better future—one where they can work, worship, and thrive with dignity here in the United States.
José Ángel Gutiérrez Books: A Gringo Manual on How to Handle Mexicans (Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico: Imprenta Velasco Burkhardt, 1974)
- A War of Words (co-authored) (Westport, Connecticut: Greenwood Press, 1985)
- The Making of a Chicano Militant: Lessons from Cristal (Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1998)
- Chicano Manual on How to Handle Gringos (Houston: Arte Publico Press, 2003)
- More books links: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_%C3%81ngel_Guti%C3%A9rrez
