A Closer Look at Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo has become synonymous with festivities and delicious Mexican cuisine (and who doesn’t love both of those things?). At the Ashland Food Co-op, it's important for us to approach this celebration mindfully and with a cultural understanding. We use these opportunities to educate ourselves, and share what we learn with our community.
Let’s start with a very brief history lesson. On May 5, 1862, in the city of Puebla, Mexico, an outnumbered and outgunned Mexican army achieved a remarkable victory against French forces in the Battle of Puebla. While not a decisive turning point in the overall conflict, this triumph symbolized Mexican resilience and unity in the face of foreign aggression. Cinco de Mayo commemorates this historic battle, serving as a testament to Mexican courage and determination.
Here are a few ways we can celebrate mindfully in a way that honors history, and the Mexican culture:
- Take the time to learn about the history and significance of Cinco de Mayo.
- Support local Mexican-owned businesses, restaurants, and artisans.
- Host a traditional Mexican meal with authentic recipes and ingredients.
- Engage in educational activities, such as reading books or watching documentaries about Mexican heritage.
As we celebrate Cinco de Mayo, let's do so with respect, joy, and a commitment to cultural understanding. We can honor the true significance of the holiday by embracing Mexican culture in a thoughtful manner, and create meaningful and inclusive celebrations that everyone can enjoy.
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We're always learning and growing here at the Co-op and with the approach of Cinco de Mayo we thought we would share a (very) brief history lesson and some thoughts on celebrating this holiday here in the United States.
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