Mis Queridos! What a treat I have for you this Saint Patrick’s  Day week! First,  Check out Mark Day’s documentary “The San Patricios,” the story of the Irish who defended Mexico during the Mexican American War. Then look at the tasty recipe for Jalapeño Soda Bread and check the Art page for Chicano-Irish muralist Wayne Alaníz Healy’s fabulous art 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.

And please sample the recipe for jalapeño soda bread. The soda bread tradition is a traditional and tasty way to celebrate St. Patrick’s day and it will go great  with your corned beef tacos and  black and tan Guinness with Corona beer.  Slainte!

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.