San Patricio Battalion Flag
Mis Queridos! What a treat I have for you this Saint Patrick’s Day week! First, have you ever heard of the San Patricios? They’re the Irish that came to the defense of Mexico during the Mexican American War of 1846. Check out Mark Day’s documentary The San Patricios! And on the “Art” page, see Chicano-Irish muralist Wayne Alaníz Healy’s fabulous work!
The story of the Irish battalion is truly one of those rare moments in history–united by a common oppression, common religion and common sense of justice, 500 Irish immigrants deserted the United States Army between 1846 and 1848 to join in the defense of Mexico. Their end was tragic but heroic and their sacrifice is still celebrated to this day in Mexico, Ireland and the United States.
The love between Irish and Mexicans is long and deep, attested to by the many Irish that still live in Mexico. And just think of all those Irish/ Latino couples you know here en los Estados Unidos! Both peoples have suffered from the colonial process and both peoples have a hearty, buoyant and proud spirit that has made us all survivors. Hay, your Tia is getting todo *misty.* Okay, enough, enough. Only to say, let’s celebrate the greatness of the Irish and the Latino people on this Saint Patrick’s Day week! As they say in the original Irish language, Tiaocfaidh ár lá (Our day will come!) Your slightly sentimental Tia Tenopia.