Gustavo Arellano wrote the article "Mexicans Hate Mexicans Most", in where he recalls his own experience with the pocho attitude presented by Mexicans towards Mexicans. The pocho attitude is known to be a form of disrespect towards Mexicans who have become Americanized. This includes learning to speak English, wearing less-traditional clothing, and adapting to other cultures. The significant part of the pocho attitude is that it comes from Mexicans themselves.
This attitude has become common in areas where oppression caused native culture to assimilate and have their language, lifestyle, and culture stripped from them. In areas like Southern California and Mexicali where Hispanic activism was highly present, people have developed this attitude towards mixed Mexicans. As Arellano wrote further explaining why Mexicans show hostility towards other Mexicans, he explains that, “Pochos get the brunt of it because they're the most gabacho, the one group all Mexicans can agree to hate. But truth is, Mexicans hate Mexicans more than gabachos hate Mexicans, and the sooner we get rid of this pendejada from our psyche, the quicker the full Reconquista will be complete.”
It seems to be some strange consensus by traditional Mexicans to disown their own kind for simply being less bound to their roots. For example, Mexicans with a lighter skin tone or even unnatural hair colors are often referred to as gringo - or white - for simply not adhering to the Mexican stereotype. Arellano also talks about the cycle of hate in which, “Pochos will hate other pochos for being too successful or not Mexican enough” and so forth.
Which brings this attitude to a full circle; why exactly are Mexicans hypocritical and hostile to their own kind? Is it because of the history of oppression? Is it just pure jealousy of them being more culturally accepting? Is it because they are racist and discriminate against outsiders? Whatever the reason may be, it is clear that Mexicans show discrimination to non-traditional Mexicans for the basic reasoning of them not being Mexican enough, which is irrational alone.
Take American-born Mexicans for example; both parents could be full Mexican but as soon as the child is born outside of the country they are seen almost as a bastard child for being born outside of their self-proclaimed homeland. Even if they were to speak fluent Spanish, wore traditional clothing, play traditional music, they will always be viewed as less-than their own kind, simply for being raised in another culture.
This attitude is mostly seen in areas where the population is dense in Mexican heritage, where the pride of being Mexican is prevalent. Areas such as border towns where long lines of heritage have lived is where this pocho attitude grows and becomes commonplace to experience. Even if these areas are within the United States, if the area is “Mexican enough” then it essentially becomes a small branch of the country. These areas also prioritize the use of speaking Spanish to the point where it’s a school requirement and also a major part of job interviews. If someone is Mexican in this area, but happens to only speak English and is disconnected from their roots, they will undoubtedly have the noses of their own kind upturned in disappointment and almost disowned by their own heritage.
This attitude can only be changed with the acceptance of new cultures while also preserving traditions, in a balanced way where neither is overshadowed or altered.
Comentários