On May 5, 1862, 4,000 New Mexican Soldiers defeated the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico. The battle became known as La batalla de Puebla.
Contrary to what some people believe, Cinco de Mayo is not a celebration of Mexico's independence from Spain. The day that Mexico actually declared its independence from Spain was on Sept. 15, 1810. Nonetheless, Cinco de Mayo has become a day of celebration due to Mexico's victory in La batalla de Puebla.
So, where are the celebrations? Well, they are nearly obsolete. The City of Albuquerque did hold its Second Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration on May 1. The event was free, but interested persons had to listen to two local radio stations in order to obtain tickets at their giveaway locations. The fiesta obviously wasn't publicized enough. Only listeners of Radio Lobo 97.7 and El Sol 106.7 were given an opportunity to attend.
I've heard a couple of Texas natives tell me there are many celebrations for Cinco de Mayo in their state. Which leads me to ask: Why don't we have them in New Mexico (primarily Albuquerque)?
This year it has been especially apparent that Cinco de Mayo is just not celebrated much anymore. Our calendars editor has not received any submissions for Cinco de Mayo celebrations to put in our calendar. It's a shame because of this day's significance.
Are we soon going to forget what this day is all about, or have we already forgotten?
