The date is observed to commemorate the Mexican Army's unlikely victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla, on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza. Cinco de Mayo is a cultural celebration that often gets celebrated in an offensive manner that portrays negative stereotypes about Mexican cultural and people through costumes, misusing language, and or using fake accents. In order to avoid any offensive behavior to maintain respectful cultural practices and awareness. Here are a few tips to utilize when celebrating this cultural holiday.
1. Refrain from wearing costumes, wearing sombreros, sarapes, mustaches, and or sugar skull makeup.
2. Refrain from using accents or making up Spanish sounding words.
3. Go support authentic Mexican businesses.
4. Educate yourself on the history of Cinco de Mayo and how it became so popular in American culture.
5. Donate and or support organizations working with immigrant rights.