Overcoming the History of Prejudice

Historically, the phenomenon of prejudice has been a universal human struggle, transcending geographical borders and racial identities to manifest in every corner of the globe. From the tribalism of antiquity to the systemic hierarchies of the modern era, no demographic has been entirely exempt from the tendency to favor the "in-group" while marginalizing the "other." However, a profound historical shift occurred through the ministry of Jesus Christ, whose teachings directly confronted these ingrained biases by emphasizing a common spiritual ancestry. By commanding his followers to "love your enemies" and demonstrating radical inclusivity through his interactions with marginalized groups like the Samaritans and Gentiles, Jesus established a moral framework that demands the total dismantling of racial and social animosity. For centuries, this biblical imperative has served as the cornerstone for movements seeking to heal global divisions, arguing that true progress for the human race requires a collective rejection of prejudice in favor of the Agape love described in the New Testament. In a contemporary context, this historical legacy suggests that overcoming global discord is not merely a political necessity but a moral obligation to recognize the inherent dignity of all people, as commanded by the central tenets of the Christian faith.

Born Again, or Just Late?: The Christian in Chicano History

Historically, the emergence of Chicano Studies and the accompanying political movement of Chicanismo in the mid-20th century fostered a critical perspective toward institutions perceived as instruments of colonialism and assimilation—a critique that often included the Catholic Church. For some Chicano nationalist thinkers, an individual's deep dedication to the Church and a Christian upbringing, particularly without a prior political or scholarly awareness of Chicanismo's core tenets (which emphasize indigenous heritage, political self-determination, and anti-assimilation), was seen as evidence of an unexamined identity or even an internal colonization. The argument surfaced that a person immersed in Western, Christian paradigms before critically engaging with Chicano history and decolonization was a "late bloomer" or not authentically "Chicano" in the politically aware sense. This contentious viewpoint stemmed from the movement's goal of rejecting what was seen as the religious and cultural imposition of Spanish and American conquest, instead centering a rediscovered, indigenous-rooted identity as the primary marker of authentic Chicanismo. However, this critique often marginalized the reality that for many Mexican Americans, including core activists like César Chávez, Catholicism was not simply an imposed faith but an inseparable part of their familial, cultural, and spiritual lives, sometimes even serving as a foundation for social justice and liberation theology within the movement itself.

Christian Identity VS Spiritual Identity

Throughout history, the relationship between self-identified Christians and those who genuinely engage with biblical teachings has been fraught with tension and misunderstanding. Many who attend church services regularly may embrace a cultural or social identity as Christians without delving deeply into the scriptures. In contrast, individuals who commit to studying the Bible and living according to its principles often find themselves at odds with mainstream congregational attitudes. Those who speak the truth of their convictions may be labeled as "crazy" or radical, particularly by church leaders and congregants who prefer a more comfortable, surface-level faith. This backlash can escalate to hostility, with some even expressing a desire to silence these truth-tellers, reflecting a deep-seated fear of change or challenge to established beliefs. Throughout history, passionate believers who have sought to reform or deepen the spiritual understanding within the church have faced persecution and rejection, as their commitment to authenticity threatens the status quo. This dynamic highlights the ongoing struggle within Christianity between tradition and transformation, where the pursuit of truth can lead to isolation, hostility, and a desperate need for genuine dialogue within the community.

Echoes of Heroes: My Unforeseen Lineage

Even in elementary school, I found myself captivated by heroes like Hercules, Zorro, Batman, and Spider-Man. There was an undeniable pull to their stories and their strength. What I didn't know then, and only discovered much later in adulthood, was the profound, almost fated, connection I share with them by blood. My Andalusian roots link me to the legend of Hercules. The shadowy figures of Zorro and Batman resonate with my heritage from Huehuetenango and Chiapas, while Spider-Man's agility and spirit echo the traditions of the Hopi Indians in my lineage. Looking back, there were several reasons why I didn't delve into my own ancestry during those formative years. My parents weren't particularly focused on it, and so, at that young age, neither was I. But beyond that, there were more personal considerations. I instinctively shied away from making any public announcements about being part of the Concepción during elementary school. I worried about inadvertently offending someone from a different mission or California city. I also didn't want to blindly follow my teachers' after-school coaching, wary of leading my peers astray. More pressingly, I wanted to avoid school fights at all costs and feared being unjustly held in early detention due to someone's malice or jealousy. I also wanted to avoid being manipulated by a teacher seeking to improve their reputation or avoid accusations of racism. Compounding these feelings was a deeply ingrained misconception: knowing I was Mexican during grade school led me to believe I was unintelligent, perhaps due to a mental disability or high-functioning autism. I made a silent vow to myself then, an experiment of sorts: I would intentionally avoid studying my ethnic studies information to prove that not all Mexican-American people are racist towards white people, and to demonstrate that I wasn't experiencing or contributing to a "race problem" at school. It was only later, as a college student, that I began to understand the complexities that persist, even when you're excelling academically. I observed that some professors and doctors might still scrutinize your every move, even when you're performing well, perhaps due to unspoken biases. It became clear that something as simple as a smile could be misinterpreted, potentially triggering a "jealous streak" rooted in the "genetic function" of one's face, highlighting the subtle, yet pervasive, issues of "different blood" that can arise in both academic and professional environments.

A Double-Edged Identity

In Los Angeles, the title "El Hijo de La Mero Mero" holds a complex meaning for young people linked to gangs. While some see it as a symbol of pride and loyalty to the city's original gangs, others view it as a sign of toxic masculinity and outdated attitudes (or Machismo). This divide has led many kids to hide where they're really from, worried that their peers might feel jealous or angry if they reveal their gang ties. During the 1990s through the 2000s, schools often promoted ideas that questioned traditional values, making some young people feel ashamed of their backgrounds. As a result, they might downplay or even lie about their gang affiliations to avoid conflict and fit in. This struggle between wanting to show pride in their heritage and the fear of being judged highlights the challenges faced by youth trying to understand their identities in a changing world.

Seven Would-be-brides, The Seven Churches:

Jesus hath said, When others chose not to practice with-in the boundaries that are in marriage, dissension and even errors can result. The Holy Spirit of the living God sees everything, especially all the Fools like Thee. Out of God’s Holy Journals comes insight.
Isaiah 4:1

The Cost of  Assumptions:Tattoos, Toughness, and Social Perceptions

Throughout history, some people have used hurtful words to provoke Chicano individuals, trying to stir up conflict for their own amusement. This behavior resembles how some used to tease the Commandos by calling them the "Pansy Gang," believing that the gang would not stand up for themselves. Such teasing aimed to show dominance and reinforce stereotypes about weakness. Similarly, many wrongly assume that someone without tattoos is less tough or capable. These patterns of verbal bullying highlight a troubling attitude, where insults are used to challenge the identity and pride of others, creating deeper divides and ongoing tension between communities.

Rogue Leaders: The Erosion of American Values

Many Americans feel disillusioned by their politicians, viewing them as greedy, money-hungry individuals who have lost touch with the values and needs of their constituents. This perception extends to various institutions, including the FBI, where some believe that agents have become entangled in the same culture of ambition and self-interest. Additionally, the government's tendency to imprison individuals based on shaky evidence or flawed investigations has led to tragic outcomes, where innocent people serve time for crimes they did not commit, only to be exonerated years later. As scandals and corruption come to light, it becomes increasingly apparent that both elected officials and certain members of the FBI have gone rogue, driven more by personal gain and corporate interests than by a commitment to public service. This shift away from genuine representation raises concerns about the integrity of democracy and the erosion of American ideals, leaving citizens questioning whether their leaders and protectors truly embody the spirit of the nation.

Jailing the Holy Spirit: The Consequences of Reliance on Intellect

Church pastors and leaders often rely on their intellect while preaching the Word of God, inadvertently putting the Holy Spirit "in jail" and confining Him to a box of human understanding. This reliance on fleshly intellect can lead to a disconnect between the message of the gospel and the transformative power that the Spirit offers. As a result, the church suffers, lacking the spiritual vitality and authenticity that come from divine inspiration. This intellectual reliance can also engender pride, as leaders may feel a sense of superiority in their theological knowledge. Matthew 7:21-23 serves as a tragic reminder of this danger, where Jesus warns that not everyone who claims to know Him will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of the Father. He emphasizes that mere words and impressive works, devoid of a true relationship with God, are insufficient. This scripture underscores the importance of being guided by the Holy Spirit rather than human intellect, reminding pastors and leaders that true faith is about more than knowledge—it's about a genuine connection with God that empowers and transforms lives.

Bridging the Gap: Educators and Faith-Driven Parents

Thomas Sowell's quote highlights the challenges of engaging in productive dialogue with those who feel morally superior, often leading to a dismissal of facts and analysis. In the context of public and private schools, this dynamic can manifest when teachers, bolstered by their professional authority, adopt a superiority complex towards parents who are deeply committed to their faith and the values it instills. These teachers may overlook the valuable perspectives that spiritually motivated parents bring to the educational environment, viewing their involvement as intrusive rather than collaborative. As a result, meaningful discussions about student welfare and educational strategies can become polarized, with teachers clinging to their positions while parents, inspired by their convictions, struggle to be heard. This disconnect can hinder a holistic approach to education that benefits both students and the broader school community.

Awakening to Spirit: Life Beyond the Flesh

In both biblical and spiritual contexts, the notion of living in the spirit versus living in the flesh encapsulates the profound distinction between a life oriented toward divine purpose and one bound by earthly desires. Living in the spirit signifies an alignment with spiritual truths, fostering growth, love, and connection, which leads to true life. In contrast, living in the flesh often implies a focus on materialism and transient pleasures, ultimately resulting in spiritual death. Similarly, Indigenous wisdom presents a complementary perspective: to live is akin to a state of sleep, where individuals may be unaware of their deeper connection to the universe and their ancestors. In this view, death is not an end but an awakening—a return to consciousness and unity with all existence. Together, these perspectives highlight the importance of spiritual awareness and the transformative journey from ignorance to enlightenment.

Stereotypes and Labels: The Misrepresentation of Chicanos

Supporting nationalism and socialism within the Chicano community can be considered immoral, particularly because Marxist theory often serves as a tactic of gestapo Nazism, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and labels against Chicanos. By framing our struggles through a Eurocentric lens, Marxism reduces our affluent ethnic cultural identities to simplistic categories that dismiss our unique histories and experiences. This not only marginalizes indigenous and Spanish-speaking peoples but also perpetuates a narrative that can be used to control and manipulate our community. Chicanismo, in contrast, advocates for the independence and empowerment of La Raza as a whole, celebrating our various heritage and promoting self-determination. It stands firmly against ideologies that exploit our identity for political gain, recognizing that any attempt to impose external frameworks is a betrayal of our collective struggle for justice and equality. Embracing Chicanismo means rejecting the labels and stereotypes imposed by oppressive systems and fostering a movement that honors our true identity and aspirations.

Understanding Identity: The Effects of Adult Gaslighting on Children

In some educational settings, teachers may unconsciously gaslight through interactions with their favorite students, impacting young children's understanding of race. When these favored students express views, teachers might validate them more than others, creating a hierarchy that undermines marginalized voices. This dynamic can involve tactics reminiscent of Machiavellian strategies, where power games, slander, psychological warfare, and scapegoating maintain control due to intellectual dishonesty. As a result, children who haven't yet researched racial complexities can feel confused and invalidated. This approach not only distorts their perceptions of race but also perpetuates social indoctrination, complicating their ability to develop a healthy understanding of identity in a diverse world.

Why Ethnic Studies degree?

As a Christian, my mission is to spread the message of love, hope, and unity that lies at the heart of the gospel. Joining the MEChA Club at Compton College provides an opportunity to connect my faith with my cultural heritage, promoting Chicano awareness while embodying the values I hold dear. I believe that understanding and celebrating our diverse backgrounds can foster a sense of belonging and strengthen our community. By embracing our unique identities, we can create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued. This journey not only enriches my own faith but also encourages others to explore their cultural narratives, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of each other and the shared humanity that unites us all.

Why a Commercial Music Certificate?

I pursued a commercial music certificate driven by my passion for diverse musical genres and my desire to expand my skills. In high school, I co-founded two original thrash metal bands that integrated elements of death metal, showcasing my love for creating dynamic and powerful music from 2010-2016. My exploration of jazz during this time further enriched my musical foundation. In college, I honed my jazz improvisation skills and studied contemporary guitar, which broadened my understanding of different styles and techniques. This comprehensive musical journey led me to seek a commercial music certificate to blend my varied experiences and advance my career in the music industry.

Why a Music Performance degree?

My seven uncles from Eagle Rock, Los Angeles, were reputable guitarists who thrived during the vibrant era of the White Fence Pachucos from 1900 to 1962. Their musical prowess was deeply rooted in our family’s heritage, tracing back to La Purisima, Cerro Blanco, Sinaloa, Mexico, through my grandmother. Although my grandfather from Saint Thomas Yuma Indian Misson (La Mission Puerto de Purisima Concepcion), La Purisima of Lompoc, and La Purisima of Boyle Heights didn’t play guitar, his roots are in the flamenco traditions of Andalusia, specifically from Cerro Blanco, Sevilla, profoundly influenced my uncles’ musical styles. Inspired by their talent and the cultural legacy they upheld, I am pursuing a degree in music to honor and continue this rich heritage for future generations.

A state of socialism

How can we effectively ready ourselves, both mentally and spiritually, to engage in a dialogue with someone who persistently remains oblivious to the true nature of socialism? How do we detach ourselves from the allure of deception and overwhelming distractions of the world? How can we identify when an individual with a distorted mindset fails to acknowledge the existence of a broader communist movement within America?

Reevaluating the textbook

Is it time for us to reconsider the way we approach textbooks? How frequently should we reassess our understanding of the material in order to grasp it fully?