Santa Fe Hispanos now face ‘ethnic racism’

There is a cloud that’s casted over the city of Santa Fe.

Racism is wrong, but it is alive today, as it was in the past. Today, we (Hispanos/Santafecinos/Mestizo) are now faced with Ethnic Racism, and are also facing attacks on our beliefs and religion.

I ask of you, city councilors, where did things go wrong? Perhaps it was support for those groups who bring destruction to our community; not allowing our community to have a voice; removal of the statue of De Vargas.

Recent events have sadly created division, anger and hate. Our celebrations are not rage, hate or disrespect of others — they are peaceful and inclusive to all people and cultures. Not one culture is more important than another’s, just like we cannot change the failings of our ancestors. Their mistakes are not the fault of anyone living today.

Our history cannot be erased or overlooked, but we need to be willing to listen to each other and build relationships between communities. The words we speak must match our actions. I ask you, councilors, to promote the preservation of our customs and heritage. Our people need to be heard.

You as a governing body should not crush one group to appease another; this is unfair. All cultures within our communities matter. We have had peace with all and now the division. Peace is the answer.

I encourage each of you to educate (yourself) and learn all of New Mexico history. De Vargas came to our community, laid down his sword and welcomed us to coexist. AARON GARCIA President, Santa Fe Fiesta Council Santa Fe