Nancy wrote on Jul 19, 2008 6:15 PM:La gente is the Spanish word for people not la raza. La Raza receives money from taxpayers to promote their open-borders agenda. We citizen taxpayers fund the people who are working against this country.
For some reason politicians cater to la Raza but not to the KKK. The two groups are equivalent.

Oh Yeah wrote on Jul 19, 2008 6:21 PM:Check the NCLR (National Council of La Raza) web site. You'll find that virtually all of La Raza's policies are consistent with support for illegal immigration and entitlements for illegal immigrants. NCLR may not admit to the concept of "Aztlan", but the Chicano Studies program at SDSU certainly seems to believe it exists. Aztlan is the very first word in the URL that takes you to their taxpayer funded web site.

Interesting Article wrote on Jul 19, 2008 6:38 PM:I chatted with some of the attendee's of the NCLR and pretty much was told the same thing.

As for American's Non- Hispanics there is fear that there is a reconquista action going on behind closed doors. And the name La Raza is a fearful name to Non-hispanics.

As an activist myself we do hear these terms from Latino's often.

It is time to reach across the line. We need to stop having Latino round tables and African American round tables. We need to have race communication round tables. We need to share our fears and concerns with each other. We need to reach out for peace.

I'm tired! If I hear the term racist one more time from any side, I think my head is gonna split. I'm ready for some change in our communities. We need to work together.

I will be working in the weeks to come to start some sort of communication program between these two sides.

I'm sure I'm not the only one who ready to stop these race wars.

Peace brothers and sisters!

LAMESAJOE wrote on Jul 19, 2008 6:40 PM:They can explain it away all they want, but the literal translation of "la raza" is "the race". Doesn't get any plainer than that. It's silly to be distracted by this group's name when they have such a long track record of anti-american, pro reconquista/illegal immigrant activities. It's quite simple really, if you think that illegal (and excessive legal) immigration, bilingualism, non-assimilation, overpopulation, decreased wages, a collapsing healthcare system, gangs/crime, and the general degradation of the American standard of living, are good for America, then the Nat'l Council of La Raza are your kinda folks; otherwise, you should oppose them. Don't think about it too long though, the reconquistas got a head start on us!

JoeOut!

Mexicat wrote on Jul 19, 2008 6:40 PM:So it's OK to have Irish pride and Italian pride but wrong to have Mexican pride?
As I said before, don't agree with NCLR or alot of Chicano orginaztions but the media and the bigots are giving these groups way to much exposure. You guys make them sound like the brown shirts.
And no I don't support illegal immigration either.

Dude wrote on Jul 19, 2008 7:02 PM:If the Hispanic movement wants to become more mainstream, they should look at changing the name of La Raza. All the name does is create a distraction for the people in the organization who are well meaning and well intended. If they don't, it will appear that the extremists in this organization are the ones calling the shots.

RG wrote on Jul 19, 2008 7:15 PM:When La Raza and other Latino organizations start working towards 1)stopping illegal immigration, 2)reducing Latino crime, and 3)fixing the root problem (Mexico), then I'll support them with or without a name change. Until they do something constructive for all Americans, they can call themselves anything they want.

Matt wrote on Jul 19, 2008 7:20 PM:Is the term "the human race" racist? No. Words can have various meanings and connotations. People fail to understand the nuance of language, and even more so, translation. Anyone who thinks "Latino" or "Hispanic" is a race isn't worth listening to.

Americanwoman wrote on Jul 19, 2008 7:34 PM:Dictionary.com Translator:

Spanish to English
La raza = The race.

Not one mention of the well-known motto of The National Council of La Raza:
"Por La Raza Todo, Fuera de La Raza Nada" = For The Race, Everything; Outside The Race, Nothing. The equally distasteful, racially motivated youth-group spawn of La Raza is MEChA. The acronym MEChA stands for "Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan." or "Chicano Student Movement of Aztlan." Right away, since Aztlan is mythical in it's origins, one would question why twenty-first century youth are being encouraged to believe in such a concept. They, like the parent group, La Raza, are intensely race-focused and even militant in their beliefs...cult-like, I would say. Mr. Fuentes could have been more thorough in his explanation of LA RAZA. Since he apparently felt a need to inform the readers about this extremist organization, he should have exposed them in a fair & balanced manner.

Voice of reason wrote on Jul 19, 2008 7:54 PM:To interesting Article. You seem to really be the voice of reason. Admitting your fears and being willing to open the door to communication and working together to overcome each others fears.

What and where wrote on Jul 19, 2008 8:15 PM:How about some details so I know whether or not to support their organization?

What is La Raza's official position on, and what are they doing about:

1) drivers licenses for illegal aliens.
2) matricula cards for illegal aliens.
3) special tuition rates for illegal aliens.
4) welfare for illegal aliens.
5) hospital care for illegal aliens.
6) illegal aliens squatting on private and/or pubic property.
7) falsifying social security and other documents by illegal aliens.
8) high crime and fugitive rates for illegal aliens.
9) high gang rates for illegal aliens.

Does anyone know, or know where to find out?

zeezil wrote on Jul 19, 2008 8:27 PM:They can call themselves what they want.
Fact of the matter is they are racist, exclusionary and promote the agenda of hispanics, chicanos, latinos over all other races and cultures: La Raza "The Race", MEChA, LULAC, MALDEF, CHIRLA, ACORN, CASA, El Pueblo, La Voz de Atzlan, Zapatista Army of National Liberation and Mexicanos Sin Fronteras (Mexicans Without Borders) to name only a few.

Stop the lies wrote on Jul 19, 2008 8:36 PM:You need to stop explaining what the literal translation of "La Raza" is.

The fact is that this is a racist group with a defined agenda.

Stop lying!

The comparison to Irish and Italians is an insult to these people. They have been a great part of what built this country. La Raza is trying to kill the American dream...They want the latino dream!

WD wrote on Jul 19, 2008 8:36 PM:Well our English word ILLEGAL has ONE meaning, UNLAWFUL, not allowed, prohibited.
It does not mean one ethnicity can break the law and pretend that they are not.
NCLR is very racist and has one goal in mind. To try and take back something that belongs to us, we won, and then we gave them money. A deal is a deal, but it is the shady, criminal that goes back on his word.

As for mexican pride, I hardly call people who come here illegally, get on welfare, have babies they can not support and cannot pay for, do not take education seriously, live off taxpayers money and do not obey any laws, this is not pride, this is lowlife, dependency upon others. There is no empowerment there, they drag down the whole system.
Apparently words in the spanish language get to change meanings at will, whatever suits the circumstance at the time.

I really don't think the Mexican-Americans need a group like la raza, the ones who obey the law and are not taking taxpayers money are respected in the communities, la raza is just trying to stir the pot with their illegal alien rhetoric, and trying to divide and conquer. It's not going to happen!

CyberPoster wrote on Jul 19, 2008 8:56 PM:Who cares what the anti-immigrant loonies think? Anyone with knowledge of the works of Vasconcelos understands what the word "raza" stands for--the accepting and integration of different ethnic groups. This term was coined in response to the racist policies in the US, where blacks and others were excluded from fully participation in society, and in response to the pure blood theories of Hitler. The right wing nuts always wants to distort reality in order to advance their anti-immigrant agenda.

Ray wrote on Jul 19, 2008 9:10 PM:Last time someone used "the race" as it's main theme it was Tom Metzger and you branded him a racist. Today three Hispanics gather in a group it's called "cultural" three whites do the same it's called a "Klan" meeting.
La Raza "the race" is no better than any other racist group operating in America today and I am surprised that the NCT would even print a story supporting racism. Bet the NCT will censor this comment, any takers?

Karl wrote on Jul 19, 2008 9:19 PM:Mexicat,

Points well taken.

I for one would love to see a return to "USA Pride". I do take exception to your comment about "bigots".

The terms/words, "bigot", "xenophobe" and "racist" are used with such frequency with no basis in fact that the meaning of the words are watered down tremendously. This is a trajedy. I wonder if future generations will lose closeness of community because the words above are used with such impunity.

Without a doubt there are bigots, xenophobes and racists living among us. There are, in my opinion a lot less of these rancorous groups/individuals than that portrayed by websites/posts like this.

Most (a very large %) of the individuals that I encounter on a day to day basis are color blind. It makes me wonder sometimes why the world through my eyes is so much different than that portrayed by posters on this site that claim bigots, xenophobes and racists are running rampant in our community.

I am very glad that I live a charmed life and pretty much live a bigot free existance. I thank my parents for that.

Peace to all.

Un-American wrote on Jul 19, 2008 9:40 PM:All of you who are against "La Raza" are actually un-American yourselves. You have a petty intolerance of anything you consider different.You constantly look to vilify anything you dislike. You have a mind set that only "your" culture can exist in this country or world for that matter. There are billions of people on this planet. "Assimilation" , the english language, patriotism, and even religion are just excuses you use to hide your hate towards other people.This country is supposed to be about freedom, learn to live and let live.All you people do is sit around looking for an enemy, someone or something to hate. I think you people have serious mental issues when you have such a passionate hatred towards anything that you deem different.You are no different than the kkk and other hate groups always announcing your "holier than thou" attitudes. "La Raza" is not like the kkk. When did they lynch, rape, steal or do any of those horrible crimes? And the Irish contibuted to day labor sites,the Irish mafia, gans such as, Egan's Rats and The Green Ones. The Italians contributed to their mafias,bootlegging and their own auto theft gangs such as the Italian Black Hand . There is not much to be proud in that.I think you people need to work more to burn off that hate.

Mexicat wrote on Jul 19, 2008 9:52 PM:When ever I mention Irish or Italians, some bloggers take it as an insult. Why? It's the same scenrio, Irsih were treated like crap in this country, the anglo looked down on the immigrant Catholic Irish and Italians. I know, I know, they came legally. Only reason why is because the US granted them amnesty and they needed alot of people back then. Today the situation is different, the govt. can't grant amnsety because we already have a huge population as it is.
Read your history on immigration, hell this country had a problem with German immigrants, and they were anglo.

Campbell wrote on Jul 19, 2008 10:02 PM:The actual translation for "Raza" is race.
And "La" of course is "The". There is no "people" or "community" translation. The question is why are the Mexicans lying to the media and the public about this? Its almost as if they are trying to use the bait and switch routine like they did with Cesar Chavez. The Mexicans attempted to change the history of Mr. Chavez, but this is just blatant bald face lying.

Mexica wrote on Jul 19, 2008 10:03 PM:We are the legitimate activists!

Mexicat wrote on Jul 19, 2008 10:05 PM:I'm back again. Tnanks for comment. I'm not saying everybodys a bigot but you have to admit, these orginazations thrive on attention. But then again, maybe it's a good thing. The intent of these orginazations was a noble cause at one time, times have changed and I feel that oprotunitys are there for everyone. Like I said before, these are bored activist with fancy degrees, and still they complain.

Name Calling wrote on Jul 19, 2008 10:07 PM:These groups get most of their energy by yelling 'racist' at Americans. If they mainstream, they will lose their most ardent activists.

To Un-American wrote on Jul 20, 2008 12:29 AM:Um, in my country,the United States of America, one has the right to be a racist. It isn't against the law to be a racist.

Now the right to be a racist doesn't make racism right. It doesn't make it moral.

But it is important to remember something: Americans who happen to legitimately be racists do so under the liberties the United States provides for it's CITIZENS.

Who are YOU to criticize what Americans do within the confines of their own borders?

Oh, right--- there are no borders. Borders are immoral and anti-human. No human being is illegal, correct? Then why does Mexico have military controlled security on it's southern border?

No, I am not saying it is a good thing to be a racist. But unless one is not engaging in hate crimes or unlawful behavior, what do you care if an American chooses to be a racist? What do you care if they have an ignorant worldview.... especially if they do so within the confines of their own country?

As for "La Raza," I could care less what they call themselves. If they were called "The Creamy Candy Society," yet committed illegal acts, and undermined law and order, would you choose to overlook their ACTIONS because of an auspicious sounding name?

allen wrote on Jul 20, 2008 2:59 AM:these articles always make me laugh. they are written by big business for big business to try and get cheap labor.this is nothing more than an attempt to play on some guilt that some people have for having more than others.
this is big business trying to promote an agenda that gets them cheaper labor that wont sue or cause problems. this paper probably got a big advertising contract out of this article. illegals need to be sent back to the country of origin and americans need to be paid a living wage.

clm wrote on Jul 20, 2008 2:59 AM:un-American , if it was about hate, people wouldn't differentiate between legal immigratrion and illegal immigration. They would hate it all. Those who can't seem to differentiate are the ones that seem to hate and don't care about all those things you listed. Patriotism, a common language, and the understanding that from many, we are one. Nobody wants to get rid of ethnic dancing or food or music or foreign language. But the great experiment that America offers of placing our faith and efforts in ideas, ideals, and individuals rather than ethnic identity will fail if we break into ethnic or racial groups fighting only for our "own kind".

Time will tell wrote on Jul 20, 2008 4:19 AM:Irish, Italians and Germans have assimilated. They don't constantly yap about pride for the home country. It will be interesting to see if this passion for diversity remains after the latino culture becomes the majority. Is anyone here willing to place bets???

James wrote on Jul 20, 2008 6:59 AM:The cold hard fact about this is that until we ALL become AMERICANS WITH NO HYPHEN we will continue to have these kind of problems. Any group that promotes one ethnic background exclusively and excludes others is a racist group plain and simple. There is no other way to view it.

Pluto wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:07 AM:This excellent article contains important information. The responses on this blog prove that some people don't care about facts or logic. Happily, these people are a tiny minority who are backing Chuck Baldwin for President. Chuck who???

To Mexicat wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:12 AM:Have you ever had to press 2 to hear the message in Italian or Irish?

Here is the problem wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:12 AM:The problem is that immigrants from the south only come to work and send monies back "home". Their hearts are not here in the USA. An if their hearts are for the USA, there is a constant agenda to turn the USA into countries south of the border.

I'm a legal immigrant who is now a citizen and my allegiance is with the United States of America FIRST. My culture comes second. That doesn't mean it isn't a part of who I am. It just means that I know that this country needs me to be a contributing citizen.

Yeah right wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:17 AM:"one would question why twenty-first century youth are being encouraged to believe in such a concept."

The powers that be know that if it is said or read, most will believe it!

Just ask Dan Rather!!

namechange wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:24 AM:It doesn't matter what name they call the group- Its actions are racist, period. Changing their name won't change that, wise up.

More Propaganda wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:34 AM:La Raza loves to call the Minutemen rascist. At least they work to protect the interests of ALL US citizens no matter what race. That cannot be said about La Raza. I love the fact that La Raza has reformated their wedsite to tone down it's rascit comments but that doesn't change a thing. ANY organization that has a motto that says everything for the race, nothing for those outside the race is in my mind rascist itself. Try denying schooling and health care to illegals or actually building a fence at the border and you will see where their true interests lie.

Shakespeare wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:42 AM:'Tis but thy name that is my enemy; Thou art thyself, though not a Montague. What's Montague? it is nor hand, nor foot, Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part belonging to a man. O, be some other name! What's in a name? that which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. No matter what the Latinos do it will not change the hatred of some. The anger, hatred, disdain, and prejudices of those who I saw protesting outside of the convention center that day will not be changed by a name change. We have to change the color of our skin, eyes and and hair, and the sounds of our voices. I am Latino and proud of my heritage and culture, so to the NCLR I say keep your name and let those who choose to continue to criticize go ahead and do so. You do good work and I hope you continue strong.

To Here is the problem wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:57 AM:No that is not the problem!!! You are the problem!!! Why do you try to impose your way of thinking on us. It sounds to me that you have been brainwashed into believing this way. "I'm a legal immigrant who is now a citizen and my allegiance is with the United States of America FIRST." I am an American and I did not immigrate from any where, what give you the right to come to my country? "My culture comes second. That doesn't mean it isn't a part of who I am." Your culture? What exactly is "your Culture"? "It just means that I know that this country needs me to be a contributing citizen." What exactly does that mean? Even those illegal immigrants are contributing to this country. You are no different then they are you still came here to escape your own "culture".

To voice of reason wrote on Jul 20, 2008 9:00 AM:Voice of reason wrote on Jul 19, 2008 7:54 PM: "To interesting Article. You seem to really be the voice of reason. Admitting your fears and being willing to open the door to communication and working together to overcome each others fears." Sadly that is not the case. When I began to read this forum I thought perhaps the dialogue would be civilized and productive. I have been proven wrong once again.

Strange people wrote on Jul 20, 2008 9:20 AM:It may not be against the law to be "racist", but it sure is stupid. Give all the excuses you want to hate other people, it only shows how stupid you are.I am "Native American" not a wanna be American such as yoursleves. The hate that you people display is my business. All you people do is complain instead of working to make a better world.Even if the good ole U.S.A. fell apart, I'm sure there will be some humans left to continue living. I really don't think that everything lasts forever. Stop using your patrotism and your "love" of this country as an excuse for your hate. The most important thing is that we are humans and should work toward survival untill the world "ends" if it ever does. Your heads are so stuck in nationalism you want to exclude the rights to survive of humans in the rest of the world. As long as you have it good, who cares about the rest of the world right? Language, culture, and religions wont hold the world together, the simplest basic instinct to survive will.And of course you do overlook any immoral, hateful acts commited by the kkk and minutemen, because you are no better yourself.

Carlos wrote on Jul 20, 2008 9:41 AM:I speak fluent Spanish and I know LA RAZA means THE RACE. This name is not used in Latin America in a positive way at all, when I hear the name LA RAZA I too think of a group of racist people. As a Hispanic my experience with this people is that they look down on the people of their own race. Particularly, those who do not have a political science degree, La Raza is not recognized in the communities they claim to represent.

If the North County Times wants to do a through article they should investigate this organization to find out if in fact they have represented the people they claim to serve and advocate for. Have these nonprofits used the grant money to advance their own political agenda and illegal immigration?

ME wrote on Jul 20, 2008 9:58 AM:I saw "Dark Knight" yesterday. It was really good. Anyone else see it?

Why note mention... wrote on Jul 20, 2008 10:56 AM:MEChA's subrosa message: take back our land.
Take back?
They ignore the treaty that settled the US getting Calif. after a war, where the US seized, but returned Mexico City. They were wise enough back then not to keep Mexico City!

La Raza uses... wrote on Jul 20, 2008 11:04 AM:the word "raza" like the NAACP uses the words "colored people". It is inclusive and exclusive at the same time. Plus it immediately gives the reader a sense of what their cause is all about...finding justice for a people. Although I'm a gringo, I applaud them for their name and their cause.

Its a much better name than say the "Minute Men". Although that name has a little cache in American history most of that has been lost over the centuries. So now when you hear the name "minute men", the average American wonders if the group is related to some advertising scheme dreamed by Madison Avenue.

Viva La Raza!

Maybe the minute men are peddling organge juice (minute maid" or just in need of viagra (you figure it out).

esteban wrote on Jul 20, 2008 11:10 AM:Well then, in support of La Eaza'a argument that the name doesn't carry racist or separatist overtones..."White Pride" is just a name. What's the big deal?

Stephen wrote on Jul 20, 2008 11:25 AM:I wish their NAME were the only problem ...

Who are these people writing these articles? Are they living in a bubble, in a parallel universe?

They can't be THIS dense ...

Sheila wrote on Jul 20, 2008 11:26 AM:The United States of America cannot survive unless and until immigration is limited to a level which insures the assimilation of ALL immigrants.
We have no room for hyphenated-hybrids. If you want to live in America and leave your loyalty in your country of origin, don't bother coming.
Common language, common culture, common religion, common goals unite us as Americans. That does not mean there is no room for "diversity" or pride in who you are and where you came from. Of course there is.
But emphasizing "diversity" and demanding citizenship rights for those who break the law divides us; assimilation unites.

sickofit wrote on Jul 20, 2008 12:25 PM:Mr. Sifuentes: your insipid articles are getting old. Please stop writing this nonsense.

Ameracan wrote on Jul 20, 2008 12:26 PM:Sheila's way is the only way this will work!

aztlanbuster_on_youtube wrote on Jul 20, 2008 1:39 PM:La Raza has always translated to The Race. Save the double talk amigo, the gringos ain't buying it and we can read!!

I smell a war wrote on Jul 20, 2008 3:11 PM:Forget the unrest in the other parts of the worlds, we've got a war brewing within our own borders.

We've got to fight for the survival of the U.S.A.!

Hiram wrote on Jul 20, 2008 3:28 PM:Wake up sheep. Your Neocon, fascist Prez Jorge Bush and do nothing Dem BOTH support illegal immigration. They instituted the Patriot Act, taking away many of the freedoms we're supposed to be hated for and scanning you naked at the airport, but they leave the border wide open. Does that make sense to any of you? America is being destroyed by design, the middle class is being culled, and the long-term plan is a North American Union. Obama and McCrazy both support amnesty. There is not a dimes worth of REAL difference between them. Wake up suckers!

Ron wrote on Jul 20, 2008 3:31 PM:>>>Un-American
wrote on Jul 19, 2008 9:40 PM:
All of you who are against "La Raza" are actually un-American yourselves. You have a petty intolerance of anything you consider different.>>>

Yes, we have an "intolerance", an intolerance to those breaking the laws.
Don't you?

Jim wrote on Jul 20, 2008 4:16 PM:There's a lot to be said for what's in a name. Since the Mexican Racists hung the name La Raza on THEMSELVES, it is most appropriate that they now have to WEAR IT !...

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Jul 20, 2008 4:17 PM:Ed, why do you refuse to post any of my comments? Are you practicing censorship?

SZinWestLA wrote on Jul 20, 2008 4:23 PM:I think the title of the article is somewhat misleading. There's really not much "controversy" surrounding the group. La Raza is an ethnocentric organization built upon the concept of race. Only the most politically correct or those willing to engage in ridiculous double standards would argue differently.

Just a white guy who.... wrote on Jul 20, 2008 4:36 PM:is secure, economically and socially, in these troubling times.

My thoughts are, it doesn't matter what name the group uses, because despite the comments here (which are all disingenuous), their crime is that they are brown, and they are economically impovrished.

You see, throughtout American history, when times get bad, the majority has to have a boogey man to hate, and today, here, the boogeyman is the Mexican immigrant, legal or otherwise.

To un-american wrote on Jul 20, 2008 5:18 PM:I love this word (un-american) that you pro open border activist use to hide behind. This is Flores favorite word. By the way, why no comment from Flores?

To Sheila wrote on Jul 20, 2008 6:38 PM:You are absolutely correct when you say immigration must be limited to give time for assimilation into our own country.
When we become overrun by one race, as witnessed by the overwhelming number of illegal’s crossing our southern borders, they will stay in areas already converted to their culture and through shear numbers change the political landscape of the area. And groups like La Raza support the change for the benefit of their people and their people only. Their racist agenda has been brought to light and now they are changing tactics, hoping we will forget what they stand for. We will not forget.
They can sugar coat the organization names, but it does not change the fact these groups promote illegal immigration and racism.
They:
Steal our identification.
Clog our hospitals and drive them to financial ruin while at the same time cause our insurance to compensate for your actions.
Drive on our roads without a license and insurance.
Create gang infested enclaves in our once beautiful cities.
Drag our schools down to 3rd world performance.
Cart drugs into our country as payment to the coyotes.
Live 3 families at a time in one apartment.
Overcrowd our prisons.
All this to the tune of $9 Billion every year to the state of California.
And the tax payers get to foot the bill.
We need to spend whatever is necessary to build that fence on the boarder.
It won’t come any where near the 9 Billion it cost us every year the illegals are in California.
Come on Arnold pay to build the fence, it will pay for itself in less then 2 years.

Agree wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:07 PM:I completely agree with James (6:59 AM).

I think Americans should have one religion: patriotism.

I do not like groups that focus on a race. I think it promotes racism.

That said, if you want to have groups for mexican, cuban, black, native, latin, polynesian, etc. then you shouldn't have a problem with a white group either. Either be against racism or not, but I'm sick of the double-standard.

Madame Patriot wrote on Jul 20, 2008 10:07 PM:Sheila is correct, aztlanbuster is correct, and agreed with agree. If you have to hyphenate to ID yourself, you are part of the problem. American is not a race, it is a spirit, and yes, agree, it's religion is patriotism. For those who don't know it, research it and learn it. It has nothing to do with double standards and special treatment for "the race." No matter what race that is defined to be.

"The Race" should try respecting our laws. Then I will respect them.

Aaron wrote on Jul 20, 2008 10:08 PM:Mexico cannot even manage Mexico. Why would this racist group la rasa wish more land for the mexican government to manage? Come on, be realistic here. ...

American wrote on Jul 20, 2008 10:19 PM:You la raza supporters have been brainwashed for many generations by your families before you. It is time to start using your own brains and start to see the light.

Geoff wrote on Jul 20, 2008 10:21 PM:Didn't the USA and mexico already have a war over this issue in the past? I think someone forgot to tell the la raza people that mexico lost the war.
I think the la raza people are angry at their fore-fathers for losing the war and they are using Americans as scapegoats for this misplaced anger.

Confused. wrote on Jul 21, 2008 1:43 AM:We ordinary US citizens seem to understand and embrace the concept of patriotism. Unfortunately this doesn't appear to be true for most of our 'leaders.' They seem to be willing to sell us out at every turn. Who will you be voting for?

Wilhelm wrote on Jul 21, 2008 5:12 AM:La Raza could also mean....Race across the border...or Race to see how much American tax money can be stolen....how about we Race their sorry azzes back where they came from...it's one thing to steal from hard working Americans and OUR kids...it's another to try and rattle sorry sabres in order to rectufy their actions...and for our politicians to back their actions is even more disgusting....God Bless America!!!!....Those Who TRY Destroy Us, Be Damned!!!!!,,,,that INCLUDES those who CLAIM to represent US....This land is owned by WE, THE PEOPLE...not THEY, THE ALIENS!!!!!...or THOSE, THE TREASONOUS POLITICIANS!!!!!
HOW DARE OUR GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES SELL OUT OUR CHILDRENS FUTURES to illegals, thieves, drugs, gangs, disease, frauds and liars for a few gold coins in their pockets!!!

I wonder why wrote on Jul 21, 2008 6:07 AM:With the Internet, "The People" of the United States know what these racist groups are all about. And in some states the picture isn't pretty.

Down wrote on Jul 21, 2008 6:10 AM:with Bigots and Racist, throw them out of the U.S.!! No More La Raza, no more El Grupo all leave!

Mexicans wrote on Jul 21, 2008 7:12 AM:have not and never will win a war, just look at mexico now, all of the cowards have fled rather than take back their country. They are in essence people without a country. So here comes La Raza and tells them, hey California is yours. LOSERS.

Litl wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:22 AM:response to:
What and where
[-] wrote on Jul 19, 2008 8:15 PM:

THEY SUPPORT ALL OF THOSE THINGS YOU ASKED ABOUT....READ COMMENTS ABOVE YOURS...'ALL FOR "THE RACE" - FOR OUTSIDE "THE RACE" NOTHING!'

Kirsten wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:37 AM:Seems these days everything Latino or pertaining to Latinos raises controversy. Come on when school events intented to educate the Latino community in keeping their children from joining gangs or the importance of learning english are protested by anti-Latino groups we know we are in trouble. When the Mexican Consulate is being criticized and protested by Anti-Latino groups for providing identification cards we know we are in trouble. Now the name of group that has been in existence for years doing good work is being maligned well we are in big trouble. These anti-Latino groups say they are "just against illegal immigration" and the whole time their actions and message scream racism I think it is time for NCLR to react. They have a lot of work on their hands and the last thing that they should allow to distract them is the NAME of their group. Please give me a break. Lets get on with the real issues facing Latinos today, racism, stereotyping, prejudices, racial profiling, hate crimes, etc... all those things the NCLR is dedicated to stopping. Thank you NCLR get busy!!!!

To Litl wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:55 AM:"THEY SUPPORT ALL OF THOSE THINGS YOU ASKED ABOUT....READ COMMENTS ABOVE YOURS...'ALL FOR "THE RACE" - FOR OUTSIDE "THE RACE" NOTHING!" This sounds like the chants of the Anti-Latino hate groups that have emerged, oh sorry the chant is not new, the KKK has always had this mindset. White Power, White Supremecy, for the Whites everything for every one else nothing. HUM!!!! I guess you can only get away saying "ALL FOR THE RACE For OUTSIDE the RACE Nothing if you are white. Sick sorted racist viewpoint but if it works for you, well what can I say.

To Wilhelm wrote on Jul 21, 2008 10:19 AM:Yikes you sound so angry, and fearful. You poor dear. I hope using all the profanities made you feel better!! The 14th Amendment states that ANY PERSON in the United States is entitled to live, liberty, and property and equal protection under the law. The ANY PERSON does include the illegal immigrant. I agree that WE, THE PEOPLE own the land but unless you know something I don't the "THE ALIENS" are people. Oh yes one more thing, most of our government representatives are the thieves, drug pushers, gangbangers, fraudulent(lets not forget old Duke) and liars all for a few gold coins in their pockets.

Reality Check wrote on Jul 21, 2008 10:40 AM:If I lived in Latin America,you could not keep me from coming to the promise land. The only thing keeping Latin Americas down ,is Latin American Leaders,La Raza leaders included.

To Kristen am wrote on Jul 21, 2008 10:41 AM:That's a lot of bull crap. I was in education for 37 years and know what was going on. So much cover up it was sickening.

Lilly wrote on Jul 21, 2008 10:47 AM:Just wanted to share my family history. We all heard about USA taking land from Mexico and Mexicans wanting it back.
My family had thousands of acres in Texas, along with the Galindos and Garcias. USA seized the land & paid Mexican Govt for it. Those families were never compensated, but in my history, they were given citizenship. I know, it was not a fair deal. Several generations tried to legally take that land back and failed. These actions and anger should have been directed to the Mexican govt, not the USA.
What is important is that I am American, a law abiding citizen & financially independent & proud of my heritage.
I am completely AGAINST illegal immigration and have NO desire to take back what was never mine. More of us Americans of hispanic descent need to speak up for fellow Americans.
La Raza IS racist & wrong.

Lilly wrote on Jul 21, 2008 12:48 PM:I TOTALLY agree with you. La Raza and Sifuentes with their agendas make me ashamed.

Patriot wrote on Jul 21, 2008 1:04 PM:If this is a mainstream organization it should focus its support to legal immigrants, not to people who live and work in this country in defiance of our immigration and labor laws. If laws need to be changed, lobby for it, but don't aid and abet the lawbreakers. Aiding and abeting illegal aliens itself is illegal and doing so is not characteristic of a mainstream organization.

Derek wrote on Jul 21, 2008 2:24 PM:I have was stationed in many different counties in this world and in none of them did I deem it necessary to learn another language, for I always knew I would return to my home country to live. 36 years in a border town taught me that if a government on the other side was as corrupt as I read and heard from their own citizens, I wanted nothing to do with it. I now see my own country on the road of corruption, pray tell how many in the Congress and Senate are not millionaires? PAC money and contributions add up fast. Just ask Kaye Bailey Hutchison, $2,500,000.00 dollars first term as a junior Senator from Texas, or Ex-Senator Glenn, who ran for President and accumulated a debt of $3,000,000.00 and from the generousity of his heart offered to pay 10% on the dollar,even though he had a net worth of $11,000,000.00 tied up in other places. How about the congressman fom Louisiana,who kept $90,000 in his freezer, so he could put it oveer his nude body when it got hot muggy, I assume. Or could it be because you are only allowed to put in ten thousand at a time in your account without declaring where you got it? Where is that border fence the people demanded because no one wanted to stop the illegal migration to this country. This did not just happen over night 12,000,000-20,000,000 illegals. No wonder our elderly citizens are hurting from high prices, and the lower income people are finding it harder to make ends meet. Your corrupt officials are the cause. Outsourcing of jobs so the rich can get richer. This wqas caused by both parties. "60 Minutes" showed that, what did Americans say? That doesn't affect me, ha, now it's coming back to haunt you, importing the same skills from other countries, at a cheaper rate, while our citizens, while while our leaders tell us "tough." This country needs seerious change and not business as usual.

Brandy wrote on Jul 21, 2008 3:10 PM:You are so very right Lilly. My grandparents came here from Mexico legally and I am ashamed of those who are defy our laws and demand that we ignore our laws for them.

To To Kristen am wrote on Jul 21, 2008 3:42 PM:If you don't know what I am talking about please refrain from commenting. Obviously you are unaware of what I am speaking about and in that ignorance you attempt to cast doubt on my statement. If you have been teaching for 35 years please tell me why our schools are in such bad shape. Please try to come up with solutions rather then perpetrate more problems.

EscoWatchDog wrote on Jul 21, 2008 3:50 PM:Viva La Raza and Viva all people who respect human rights!!!! I will choose whatever name I want. The fanatics who claim La Raza are planning some type of "reconquista" are mad (crazy). Haro is right, there is no evidence of the NCLR supporting this. In fact, NCLR is pretty conservative and very assimilationist too. Their banner was in Red White and Blue. Haters should just refocus their energy on something productive rather than believing conspiracy theories. After being funny, this is pretty pathetic. Mexico is next door, there is no need to create another Mexico.

Elizabeth wrote on Jul 21, 2008 4:22 PM:As a proud Mexican-American I have many mixed feelings about the comments posted here. I am proud of my heritage and the country my parents come from and proud of being born in America's greatest city. Why though, does it seem I must loose or hide my heritage? This country is colorful and beautiful because of our diversity. Stop with the paranoia, there is no hidden agenda to take back the US. And comparing the National Council of La Raza to the KKK is outrageous!

To Elizabeth wrote on Jul 21, 2008 4:44 PM:There is the problem, you say you are a Mexican-American, not an American of Mexican descent.

la raza cosmica wrote on Jul 21, 2008 4:52 PM:"Race" is a social construct. It is reflected in the concept of "la raza cosmica" and manifested every 10 years by the US Census. Of course their meansing do not exist in a vacuum, but too many of you commentators are misguided by your own prejudices and misconceptions of "they" and "us." Instead, you should ask your legislators the tough questions. For instance, "What are the political structures that generate conditions for people to migrate?" Perhaps something more grounded: "How have neo-liberal economic agreements, such as NAFTA, displaced workers in the US & Mexico?" Pointing the finger and using divide & conquer methodology is a classic way of ensuring we never gain power as working people... across borders.

Assimilationist wrote on Jul 21, 2008 4:58 PM:It's interesting the level of fear that those who speak out against NCLR have. NCLR has a complete assimilationist agenda. They buckle for identity politics, having supported Gonzalez for attorney general even when it was clear that he generated policies that supported torture. And in TX, he didn't even review death penalty cases - just sent possible innocent folks to the chair. Sure they do some decent things - housing, anti-hate, etc.- but they really represent the politics of the established apologencia - ready to sell themselves to either party, and at the will of any corporation. Are they "overtaking" the US - nah, that's just an outlandish & baseless idea mostly from people of european decent who fear change.

NCLR racist wrote on Jul 21, 2008 5:04 PM:Probably not...
how about the White House?

La Who wrote on Jul 21, 2008 6:34 PM:this group is so big and powerful that I had no idea they existed before the article about McCain and Obama going to their convention located 30 miles from the Mex. border so someone would show up. This group is not even on the radar, why waste time debating their motives.Lets talk about something that effects us all Angelina and Brad?

To To Elizabeth wrote on Jul 21, 2008 7:29 PM:Yes, I am a Mexican-America Y Que!!! When I was in high school I did not embrace the Chicano movement so the labels available were Mexican-American or Chicano so I chose Mexican-American now you are offended by that because the label is Latino. Give us a break at least your term never changed white is white right. Well I am a proud Mexican-American. I will never be ashamed of my heritage!!! I will never deny my nationality!!! So go ahead and use your shame tactics because they will not work on this Mexican-American. Anyone who is ashamed or embarassed to be Mexican can kiss my grits. Viva La Raza!!!

VET wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:23 PM:TO ALL AMERICANS! The third world invasion of this great nation will never stop until every light post is festooned with the rotting corpses of our treasonous globalist politicians. The fuse has been lit...the powder keg is about to blow. Patriots lock and load....our second revolution draws near. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!

Timray wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:25 PM:Hey wait a minute....i well remember Phoenix Union High School and Carl Hayden in Arizona where it was and still is a race war. Having lived in Mexico for a number of years I saw lots of discrimination against natives...and the treatment of the blacks in Costa Chica is disgraceful. I remember Puerto Ricans slamming Mexicans because they were Indians to them. We all know of the black-brown war in Los Angeles!! Is this unique? I don't think so...the North Vietnamese have always held the opinion the South Vietnamese were lazy! NAACP, La Raza, KKK, Reverend Wright, Jesse Jackson, Jesse Helms all use the same tactics!!! Like the Reverend Wright is for the poor, Liberation Theology, and lives in a 10 million dollar mansion! Billy Graham's kids never went to public school....are we seeing a theme here? Senator Boxer urges us to conserve then disappears into an air conditioned McMansion in Palm Springs! There is plenty of racism and hypocrisy to go around no matter the color!! I am the last of the Fungowee Tribe. We hold the Great Sea Lion created the universe....now what I want to know is how I get federal funding.

Americans wrote on Jul 22, 2008 6:55 AM:Is America a continent, two continents or a country? Is America derived from a Latin word? Was Christopher Colombus, a Latino from Italy, Spain or Portugal?(Real name Cristobal Colon, the other Christopher Columbus was a sea merchant who never sailed out of Italy)Who were the first European immigrants/explorers on this continent? What? La Nina, Pinta, and the Santa Maria?Wow, what a long "Latin" legacy in "America"!Don't forget the established existance of the Native American Indians, who were here first. don't preach about theories(Beiring Striat,viking), just facts. The Native Americans were here, still are and you people complain about your petty issues.I think karma has come around to the illegal invaders from Europe.That's what you are illegal aliens from Europe.

To Elizabeth wrote on Jul 22, 2008 7:14 AM:My grandparents were from Poland and Italy. They were proud to be known only as Americans and nothing else.
Read the below quote.
"In the first place we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the man's becoming in very fact an American, and nothing but an American...

There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag, and this excludes the red flag, which symbolizes all wars against liberty and civilization, just as much as it excludes any foreign flag of a nation to which we are hostile...We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language...and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."

--Theodore Roosevelt, 1919

To Elizabeth wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:40 AM:Do you remember the day without a Mexican.

At the Oceanside high school the Mexican flag was flown above an upside down American flag.

That is an insult of the highest degree to US citizens.

Defining yourself as a Mexican American can be interperted the same way, just say you are an American!

To Vet wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:25 AM:You are scary!!! Be Careful of what you ask for, you just might get it. Peace!!

to vet wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:48 AM:you are right on

Elizabeth wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:00 AM:Why leave out the Mexican if that is who I am? I must respectfully disagree with Mr. Theodore Roosevelt, just because I say Mexican American doesn't mean I'm not "American at all". In fact that is insulting to me. I respect and love the country in which I was born with all of my heart. For me, saying I'm Mexican American means I am proud to be both. I wonder, does anyone have a problem with the commonly used term of African American?

To those who question Elizabeth wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:03 AM:I don't agree completely with Elizabeth, but at least she is being honest. Quite frankly, quoting T. Roosevelt is foolish b/c he sounds like a nativist, who in better white supremacist days, might have worn a white hood over his head. The problem is that we are confronting a capitalist regime that has surpassed the nation/state paradigm, and depends now on militarism as a framework for social control. Hence, the corporate elite have no borders but the working class die in the deserts looking to feed their families. It's a global phenomenon, not just a US/MX issue. Militarism, then, is the methodology to ensure that those that have continue to have. And this mindset is programmed via a false sense of patriotism: "It's my country, get out, assimilate or else, etc." In the meantime, you continue to be impoverished, financially and in spirit, and blame others that look different and have less than you. You become part of the equation for social control, and don't even know it.

To To those who question Elizabeth wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:23 AM:Damn you are awesome. I agree completely with what you said and I believe me could not have said it better.

To To those who question Elizabeth wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:10 AM:Assimilation into our culture shows the immigrant wants to be a team player.
In the past immigrants were separated from their former lives due to the cost of travel and communication.
That caused rapid assimilation by today's standards.
That is no longer the case with cheap air travel and especially with Mexico right on our border.
Back and forth, back and forth they go.
That does not build a team member, only separate goals not beneficial to this country.
What goals am I talking about?
(1) Learning English.
(2) Following our laws, especially immigration
(3) Support the US during conflict, even against you previous homeland.
(4) Do not be a useless burden to society, we have enough freeloaders already.
Teddy Roosevelt had it right, and to say he was a racist like the KKK shows you need to reread the above quote, he would not stand for bigotry towards anyone in this country.
But he demanded immigrant’s allegiance to this country, and rightly so.

Patriot wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:17 PM:Our country has great but finite resources. We have rules to ensure there enough resources to go around. Part of the rules are restrictions on immigration. You are welcome to come here no matter how you look or what language you speak if you ask permission and receive it. We cannot guarantee entry for everyone who asks. If you violate our rules you disrespect us and consume limited resources we have already allocated to legal immigrants, our fellow citizens and our future children.

To To To Those who question Elizabeth wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:05 PM:Please tell me exactly what you mean by "assimilation into our culture" Tell me one thing that is exclusive to the American Culture. Please tell me one thing about the American Culture that has not be derived directly or loosely from an immigrant culture. One thing, come on you can do it.

Kelly wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:28 PM:The American Flag is one thing exclusive to the Americans.

EscoWatchDog wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:35 PM:Welcome "Matt" "Elizabeth" and "Assimilationist" "Un-American" and "Just a white guy.."! I enjoyed reading your comments :)

So, just checked in to do some reading for a few minutes. I am not privileged to blog all day long, but I do once in a while when I have some time.

La Raza Cosmica is a great read...glad someone brought it up because the book explains a lot of how La Raza is used today.

ToTo To To Those who question Elizabeth wrote on Jul 22, 2008 5:56 PM:Apparently you can't comprehend what was written.
Nothing was said about exclusivity.
See points 1 through 4.

William wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:05 PM:It's simple:
When you come to America Legally you assimilate. You come here to be nothing but an American. You leave your old language behind and speak ONLY English. Plainly! You leave behind your culture and your old holidays. You wanted to be an American; Be one in every way. Assimilate. Then and ONLY then can you hope to be accepted as an AMERICAN.

Read this now wrote on Jul 22, 2008 8:44 PM:14th. Amendment
to the U.S. Constitution