Symbol of pride or provocation? Why Mexican flag flew high at Ls Angeles protests – Explained

Protester waving Mexican flag – Image Credit: AP Image

In Los Angeles, the protesters burned the self-driving taxis, hurled stones at police, and even carried the Mexican flag whereas protesting in opposition to the ICE’s raid. In virtually each body, the protesters had been seen with the Mexican flag, which has grow to be a distinguished visible factor, seen in numerous media protection, from information broadcasts to social media platforms, with its distinctive pink, white, and inexperienced colors showing in opposition to backgrounds of protest scenes.

Why protesters carrying Mexican flag?

The flag serves as an emblem of opposition to President Donald Trump’s deportation insurance policies for some people, whereas others interpret it as proof supporting their issues about immigration, as illustrated by the National Review’s comparability to the “Confederate banner of the LA riots.”The present use of the flag remembers comparable demonstrations from 30 years prior, when protesters displayed it throughout opposition to Proposition 187, a measure aimed at limiting undocumented Californians’ entry to public providers. This interval marked a major growth in Latino political affect in California, fostering future leaders like former Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de León, Plitico reported.Angelica Salas, govt director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles, references comparable flag shows throughout 2006 protests in opposition to George W. Bush’s immigration enforcement laws. She explains, “When you attack the undocumented community, when you attack the immigrant community, there is a sense that — I mean, it’s a reality — the majority of the folks are Mexican.”

Flag represents each American and Mexican American identification

Regarding the flag’s significance, Salas elaborates that it represents each American and Mexican American identification, difficult the notion of accepting Mexican tradition while rejecting its folks. The flag serves as a press release of cultural pride and resistance in opposition to discrimination.For youthful protesters, many of whom are US residents, the flag represents solidarity with their dad and mom and former generations. It demonstrates their refusal to disclaim their heritage regardless of societal pressures.California’s substantial Mexican-American inhabitants, comprising 30% of residents (roughly 12 million folks), contains current immigrants and established multi-generational households, all contributing to a powerful cultural reference to Mexico.