Before we attempt to claim #CincoDeMayo as an independence celebration that revolves around food and alcoholic beverages, let’s explore the origins of this holiday and the importance of honoring its intention. 
In 1860, the Mexican government declared bankruptcy, the result of decades of internal conflict which devastated the economy and the country.
When Mexico announced a suspension of debt payments to France, French Emperor Napoleon III, nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte, sent troops to Mexico in an attempt to force payment. Mexican debt payments weren’t the only benefit of French invasion for the French, however.
By occupying Mexico City in the early 1860s, French forces also had an ability to trade ammunition, weapons, and supplies with Confederate forces who were unable to obtain goods from Northern manufacturers who supported the Union.
If Mexico’s small army of volunteers could defeat the elite French Army, they would also effectively limit the Confederacy from having access to a large trading partner of weapons.
On May 5, 1862, the outnumbered Mexican militia defeated French Army in the Battle of Puebla. The victory was a win for Mexico and for independence itself.
By defeating the French Army, Mexico not only obtained their own independence, but they also aided the Union Army in defeating the Confederacy and eventually paving the way for an end to slavery in the United States.
Their victory highlights the importance of grassroots campaigns which can affect public policy and our history. Let’s rediscover the power of our voices and how they can serve as powerful calls to action.
When we celebrate Cinco de Mayo, we should not forget the historic importance of this day and its impact on independence in America.
You can and do have the power to make social change. Raise your voice. Write to your lawmakers. Challenge the status quo. History cannot be rewritten, but the future can. #BetheChange #StandUp4HumanRights
