Blogamole › Immigration

By Michael Lopez

In the Latino civil rights world, the late Cesar Chavez is regarded as a saint. A co-founder of the United Farm Workers, he made incredible strides in the labor and immigration movements with his activism. But, according to a new book, he was not without his flaws.

Trampling Out The Vintage is creating quite a bit of waves among the Chavez fan base for its critical look at the legendary Latino leader. According to author Frank Bardacke (who was a member of the UFW), Cesar made big blunders within the union.

"Cesar Chavez was no saint," Bardacke said in a recent interview. "I knew him and he made mistakes within the union that wound up weakening that great movement of the 1970's."

Frank went on to say that Chavez put incompetent people in UFW leadership roles and caused friction between members who were from Mexico and those who were born in the U.S. But Bardacke made sure to emphasize that the book isn't just full of Cesar-flavored haterade.

"My book is not a biography to discredit Cesar Chavez," he went on to say. "My work tells a lot about Cesar Chavez, but it's more a history of the UFW."

You can judge for yourself by picking up a copy of Trampling Out The Vintage, which is in bookstores now.

Do you think Cesar Chavez is glorified too much? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Books, Cesar Chavez, Cultura, Frank Bardacke, Immigration, Trampling Out The Vintage, UFW, United Farm Workers

By Michael Lopez

It seems like New Mexico (and its Latina governor, Susana Martinez) has made quite a bit of national news recently. The state recently got kudos for bringing big budget Hollywood productions to its region. But on the flipside, Martinez' harsh stance on illegal immigration has brought it some criticism as well.

In regards to the movie push, Susana sent out a very public letter to the press announcing that Johnny Depp's Lone Ranger movie would be filmed in her state. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, The Lone Ranger is expected to be one of 2013’s biggest blockbusters and will be highlighting several New Mexico locales.

"The Lone Ranger is proof that New Mexico's film industry is alive and well," Martinez stated. "This administration is committed to fostering productive relationships with film studios so we can continue to offer our talented workforce and breathtaking backdrops for major productions. As we continue to build upon our reputation as a premier film production center, we are pleased to welcome The Lone Ranger to our state!"

But as quickly as she captured Hollywood's attention, she may very well have scared it away. Depp and many of his A-list actors are staunch liberals and probably wouldn’t take kindly to the news that Susana is looking to imprison hundreds of undocumented immigrants.

The Republican governor recently pushed a new state law that will prosecute undocumented citizens without driver's licenses. Punishment for this crime could lead to jail time or possible deportation.

And if that wasn't bad enough, Susana personally mailed 10,000 letters to foreign citizens with New Mexico driver's licenses. The notes demanded proof of residency in what was largely labeled a "witch hunt."

One thing's for sure; since Martinez assumed office last January, New Mexico has become a very divisive state.

"[This potential law] is incredibly divisive," said Latino rights attorney, David Hinojosa. "And on top of that, it also has created an atmosphere of hostility for many New Mexicans with lawful status and without lawful status."

Truth be told, this state may need a lot more than The Lone Ranger to keep the peace among its citizens.

Do you think Susana Martinez is being too harsh on undocumented immigrants? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Immigration, Jerry Bruckheimer, johnny depp, Movies & CineMás, New Mexico, Politics, Susana Martinez, The Lone Ranger

By Michael Lopez

This may be hard to believe, but Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney technically qualifies as "half-Mexican." How is that possible for someone of English, Scottish, and German heritage? It seems Mitt's dad and granddad were both born in Mexico while the family was doing Mormon missionary work.

Apparently Romney's great-grandfather Miles fled to Chihuahua during the late 1800's to avoid persecution for his religious beliefs. He wound up spending several years there and even helped establish multiple Mormon churches throughout the country.

Mitt's dad George was born in Mexico during that period and eventually moved back to America when he was a small child. Clearly it was a small footnote for the Romney family, but it could be a major playing card in this year's election.

In recent weeks, Mitt's has been bringing up his Mexican roots quite a bit when talking to voters. It's an interesting angle, but in our opinion it won’t fly. Romney's been known to preach against immigration reform and has promised to veto the DREAM Act if he were elected President. That certainly doesn't sound very "Mexican" to us.

Would you vote for Mitt Romney in a presidential election? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, George Romney, Immigration, Mexico, Mitt Romney, Mormonism, Politics

By Michael Lopez

This coming Monday, the streets of downtown Los Angeles will be flooded with horns, acoustic guitars, black sombreros, and loud chants. Yup, over 100 of So Cal's mariachis will be marching to their own mini #Occupy movement, to demand better wages and immigrant legalization.

The latest protest is the brainchild of Arturo Ramirez, who will be leading the charge and playing the famous traditional hymn, "El Son de la Negra." Interestingly, the United Nations for Education, Science, and Culture (UNESCO) recently recognized mariachi music as an essential part of the global culture.

"Immigrants, descendants of Mexicans living abroad, as well as Latin Americans, have made the modern mariachi a symbol of community identity," UNESCO said in a statement. "It is a bond linking them to their roots in spite of the distance."

Not coincidentally, the recent recognition spawned L.A. mariachis to speak out about unfair wages and the need for legalization. Typical bands consist of seven musicians, most of whom are vastly underpaid for their services. Add to that, the fact that up to 50 percent of Los Angeles mariachis are undocumented and it's easy to see employers taking advantage of the situation.

"We want to scream that the mariachis need legalization, just like the rest of the workers in this corridor," political strategist Javier Rodriguez said. "[With this movement,] we’re helping them to get rid of a group of unscrupulous contractors who are totally cheapening the wages of the mariachis, almost to the tune of almost 70 percent."

As we've mentioned before, the #Occupy initiative in L.A. has taken on a life of its own, focusing heavily on issues like immigrant rights. This mariachi movement seems to be right up that alley and we expect a very big (and very loud) turnout when the sombrero-clad songbirds take to the streets on December 12.

Are you a fan of traditional mariachi music? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, Immigration, Mariachis, Música, Occupy L.A., Politics, UNESCO

By Michael Lopez

Here’s a word to the wise, don’t ever get arrested in Arizona’s Maricopa County. The jail there (which houses hundreds of undocumented immigrants) is said to be one of roughest in the country, particularly because of its cruel living conditions. And now international singer Manu Chao has decided to speak up about it, with a new video for his song, "Clandestino."

Chao actually shot the footage in front of Maricopa County Jail and made a point to illustrate its intense weather conditions. Obviously being in Arizona, the summers can be brutal, especially without proper air conditioning. And the winters are not easy either, with reports of sub-freezing temperatures in the cells.

Manu got the idea for the video after a visit with reps from the National Day Laborer Network, who emphasized the prison’s heavy immigrant population. "Clandestino’s" video director, Alex Rivera, clarified the message to the press.

"The particulars were the result of the work of the National Day Laborer Organizing Network," Rivera said. "[They] met after a concert with Chao in California a year ago to talk with him about the situation being experienced by immigrants in Arizona."

You can see the video in its entirety by visiting Chao's official site.

Are you a fan of Manu Chao’s music? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Alex Rivera, arizona, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Clandestino, Immigration, Manu Chao, Maricopa County Jail, Música, Politics

By Michael Lopez

If you thought SB 1070 was harsh, wait'll you hear about HB56! Singled out as one of the most racist laws in the country, Alabama's new initiative can allow schoolchildren to be yanked out of class if their teachers suspect they are undocumented. Thankfully the backlash is growing fast and, with your help, it can be repealed soon.

Voto Latino has already created an online petition that will help spread the word to Alabama State Senator Bill Beasley. Beasley himself calls the law "mean spirited" and is pushing hard to shut HB56 down.

An appeals court has also stepped in and temporarily blocked the law, but it is extremely important to have a voice in this issue and let lawmakers know these initiatives won't fly. Particularly because to get HB56 permanently overturned, we'll need the support of the federal government.

Voto has been aggressively Tweeting and Facebook messaging their followers to increase support. All their form requires is your name, email, and zip code. You can also attach a personal message if you feel impassioned to do so.

We think Voto Latino summed the movement up perfectly with their closing statement on the site. "We Can Stand Up To Hate," so click that form and make a difference!

What do you think about Alabama's HB56 law? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Alabama, Bill Beasley, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, HB56, Immigration, Politics, SB 1070, Voto Latino

By Michael Lopez

We're sure you're well aware of the "Occupy" movements happening across the nation right now. What started as a New York protest against corruption has ballooned into countless demonstrations in some of the biggest cities in the country (and the world for that matter). And interestingly, the Occupy L.A. gatherings have begun expanding the message to include immigrant rights.

Hundreds of Latino activists are currently marching for Occupy L.A. The city's Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights has officially lent its support too, as have celebrities like Danny Glover, Jeff Ross, and Rage Against The Machine's Tom Morello.

In fact, Morello even invited his fellow Occupy Angelinos to a free concert performance after appearing at their demonstration.

"I used to think I was alone," he told the crowd. "Not anymore. I'd like to invite all of Occupy Los Angeles to occupy the Troubadour tonight for free!"

But the question everyone seems to be asking is, what is the Occupy L.A. message? Truth be told, it's not that far off from what the rest of the movement is preaching. Occupy as a whole, was meant to stand up against corrupt Washington politicians and "the privileged few." And any immigrant rights advocate knows, D.C. has not been very favorable towards undocumented citizens in recent years.

That seems to be the reason why so many pro-immigrant groups have hopped on board, particularly in southern California. But Occupy L.A. goes much further than that. Several local Latinos are also protesting because of labor laws and the city's ongoing job crisis.

"We bailed these banks out a couple years ago, and it's a shame that they’re not helping us back," 22-year-old protester Angel Valencia told the L.A. Times. "I'm currently employed, but everyone in my family is struggling at $8 an hour."

Interestingly, Occupy L.A. has now even gotten a bilingual touch. Several of the signs and messages getting out to the media are now completely in Spanish, proving the motto of being "fed up" crosses all language barriers.

Do you think Occupy L.A. will help spread the message about immigrant rights? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, Immigration, Occupy L.A., Occupy Wall Street, Politics, Tom Morello

By Michael Lopez

Something tells us Steven Seagal has way too much time on his hands. With not a lot of film projects in the works, the former action star has decided to uphold the law in real life, as a Texas border patrol sheriff.

Now we all know that Seagal has had his "issues" with undocumented immigrants. There was the infamous tank incident and that buddy-buddy relationship with Arizona sheriff, Joe Arpaio. But this latest venture seems to be his most controversial move yet.

Shown happily sporting automatic rifles, Steven has sworn to "uphold the law"  and secure the U.S./Mexico border. It's all rather confusing to us, especially when you consider that Seagal appeared in the pro-immigrant film, Machete.

But with his not-so-trim physique and advanced age, we doubt he’ll pose too big of a threat. Seagal officially reports for duty in early 2012.

What do you think about Steven's new gig? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Chisme, Immigration, popnews, Steven Seagal, Texas

By Michael Lopez

Something tells us that Jerry Brown will get a lot more Latino votes if he decides to run for office again. The California governor signed his state's DREAM Act into law this past weekend, which means that undocumented immigrants can now get financial aid from local public universities.

Granted, the California DREAM Act is a far cry from its national counterpart. The U.S. Dream Act (which has yet to pass) would actually award citizenship to undocumented students in college. California's law make no such promise, but it is encouraging for immigrants seeking higher education.

Governor Brown signed the first part of the legislative movement back in July and, with his second signature now in place, the DREAM is officially moving forward. He spoke up after signing the dotted line, praising everyone who works to pursue their education.

"Going to college is a dream that promises intellectual excitement and creative thinking," Brown said. "The DREAM Act benefits us all by giving top students a chance to improve their lives and the lives of all of us."

But not everyone in the state is happy about the bill. To help balance the budgets, money allocated to the DREAM Act may be taken away from grants given to low-income students. That has many citizens up-in-arms, particularly because poorer American academics may no longer be eligible for financial aid.

Republican Assemblyman Tim Donnelly has called California's DREAM Act a "colossal mistake."

"It is absolutely, fundamentally wrong and unfair,” he said. "And it is an insult to people who have worked and played by the rules, including those who have come to this country legally."

As expected, many anti-immigrant groups are also upset with the measure. But the bill's author, Assemblyman Gil Cedillo, believes that the California DREAM Act will greatly benefit the state and could be a turning point for the rights of undocumented citizens in the U.S.

"The signing of now both parts of the California Dream Act will send a message across the country that California is prepared to lead the country with a positive and productive vision for how we approach challenging issues related to immigration," he said. "It's the smartest thing for us to do to permit these students to get scholarships and be treated like every other student."

The California DREAM Act will officially take effect in 2013.

Do you think the California DREAM Act is a step in the right direction? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, California, California DREAM Act, DREAM ACt, Gil Cedillo, Immigration, Jerry Brown, Politics, Tim Donnelly

By Michael Lopez

A few weeks back President Barack Obama pledged his support for Hispanic Heritage Month and now he’s carrying through on that promise. Appearing at a live online roundtable today, the Commander-in-Chief answered questions about immigration, the DREAM Act, and even the possibility of a Latino President.

"I am absolutely confident that within my lifetime we will have a Latino candidate for president who will be very competitive, and may win," Obama stated at the conference.

Though, by the sounds of it, the President didn’t believe that candidate would come from the Republican party (or at least not now). Obama went on to explain how the GOP lacked leadership on topics like immigration reform.

"Only a few years ago, you had some Republicans who recognized that we needed to fix our immigration system," Obama said, referring to his predecessor, George W. Bush. "Right now you do not have that kind of leadership coming from the Republican party."

But that of course begs the question, what would Obama and his fellow Democrats do to help with the issue? The Prez was quick to bring up the national DREAM Act again, which would give undocumented college students and military personal a path to citizenship. He said he has continually pushed Congress to pass the bill and that he is more than ready to sign it.

Obama also addressed issues like Puerto Rico’s statehood (which he believes will remain a commonwealth) and Cuban relations.

"We are open to a new relationship with Cuba," the President went on to say. "If the Cuban government starts taking the proper steps to open up its own country and provide the space and the respect for human rights that would allow the Cuban people to determine their own destiny."

All of Obama's remarks toward the audience did sound very encouraging. But will he follow through on his promises to help the Latino community? Perhaps the real answers will reveal themselves after the 2012 Presidential Election.

Would you vote for Obama in the next election? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Barack Obama, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cuba, Cultura, DREAM ACt, Hispanic Heritage Month, Immigration, Politics, President Obama, Puerto Rico