THIS WEEK ON LATINOPIA: DR. MARIO LONGORIA ON EDGEWOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT’S VIETNAM VETS, BOBBI MURRAY’S LATEST REPORT FROM THE TRENCHES ON CUTBACKS AT THE VETERANS ADMINISTRATION, BURUNDANGA BORICUA ON AN EMINENT DANGER IN PUERTO RICO AND THE NEED TO GROW, AND RICARDO ROMO ON MAYA BLUE AT THE SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART.
Oh mi gente, we have so much this Memorial Day week! We begin with a guest blog from Dr. Mario Longoria who reflects on the high price paid by Latinos from the predominantly Mexican American Edgewood school district in San Antonio during the Vietnam War era. Dr. Longoria points out that whether they were drafted or signed up voluntarily many graduates of the Eastwood district never made it home. A sad remembrance for this Memorial Day.
And also apropos of Memorial Day, Bobbi Murray’s latest report from the trenches looks at recent cuts at the Veteran’s Administration casting into doubt the future and welfare not just of VA staff, but of all the veterans impacted by these cuts who now face an uncertain future. A real slap in the face by the Trump Administration on this Memorial Day.
From Puerto Rico, José M. Umpierre, whom we all know as El Zocotroco, reports on an alarming Eminent Danger: 80% of produce consumed by island inhabitants is imported! This makes the island wholly dependent on outside sources for its very livelihood. In his accompanying blog, The Need to Grow More, Umpierre looks at a recent documentary that highlights the urgency for global action to address global warming and the depletion of our natural resources. Umpierre stresses how important it is for island residents to look to themselves for securing their vital needs. He suggest they can begin to do this with home gardens.
Last but not least, Dr. Ricardo Romo brings us another insightful art blog. This time he visits the Maya Blue exhibit at the San Antonio Museum of Art. Ricardo locates current art works in the historical context of Maya Blue coloration and its historic roots by showcasing ancient Pre-Columbian art.
Enjoy your Memorial Day week!
Tia Tenopia