1st
MigrationAnniversary is a deeply human reality that demands a fair narrative.
Alejandra Icela Martínez and Daniel E. Benet
1st Anniversary of Heraldo USA A Bridge of Words and Wills
THE ROLE OF MASS MEDIA AS THE FOURTH ESTATE HAS HAD TO REINVENT ITSELF ALONGSIDE THE DIZZYING CHANGES OF OUR TIME. WITH THE RISE OF SOCIAL MEDIA, AUDIENCES INCREASINGLY SEEK TO BE INFORMED IN A CRITICAL, CROSSCUTTING, AND DIRECT WAY, BEYOND TRADITIONAL FORMATS. IN THIS NEW ENVIRONMENT, THOSE OF US WHO PRACTICE JOURNALISM HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY TO RESPOND TO THESE DEMANDS WITH RIGOR, DEPTH, AND SENSITIVITY.
e live in a time where virality can replace truth, where lies spread as certainties, and where the simultaneity of discourse demands constant attention. The challenge is enormous, but so is the conviction that drives us. One year ago, this supplement was born with a clear intention: to reach out, inform, and provoke reflection among Mexican audiences on both sides of the border, as well as among all those interested in the Mexican-American community and the issues that shape the complex, yet vital, binational relationship between Mexico and the United States. Its pages have brought together multiple voices, diverse themes, and enriching perspectives. The creative and editorial freedom of each contributor has been, from the beginning, one of our pillars. And it will continue to be so. Because we are convinced that free and plural journalism is one of the strongest bridges between societies—especially in times of conflict, polarization, or uncertainty. In such times, the media do more than inform: they connect, repair, bear witness, and dignify.
For this editorial house, creating a specific and permanent space such as the Heraldo USA supplement has been both a strategic and deeply ethical decision. The reasons are many, but all boil down to one: to tell the truth through human experiences. Our General Director, Franco Carreño Osorio, expressed it clearly from day one: we must tell the stories of those who once embarked on the journey toward the American dream—stories that do not always end as expected but are almost always marked by hope, effort, and dignity. With his vision and the enthusiasm and support of Angel and Cristina Mieres, we undertook this project to share these stories, stories that go beyond remittance figures or media stereotypes. They are life testimonies that speak of economic contributions, yes, but also of cultural, social, civic, and familial ones. They are stories of people who work, create, educate, build, and transform.
Moreover, we have sought to give voice to those who, from various trenches—consulates, civil organizations, community activism, or volunteerism—have taken on the responsibility of protecting and supporting those who, in one way or another, carry the Mexican identity in their daily lives. Because migration is not a crisis: it is a deeply human reality that demands understanding, a broad perspective, and above all, a fair narrative.
Over this past year, it has been essential for the small but committed team behind Heraldo USA not only to amplify the voices, topics, stories, and perspectives that enrich this space, but also to actively contribute to changing the narratives around migration. We have sought to dismantle stigma, deconstruct prejudice, and promote a critical, empathetic, and constructive outlook. We want to spark the curiosity of those who read this supplement, who listen to us on Heraldo Radio 98.5 CDMX during the Saturday or Sunday program, and who follow our interviews and audiovisual projects on Channel 8 of Heraldo TV or on our YouTube channel. We communicate from different fronts because we believe that true and necessary messages must find multiple paths to reach people.
It is not a coincidence—but rather a kind historical reminder—that this supplement celebrates its anniversary each May 5th, a date that, for more than half a century, has been embraced as a symbol of Mexican identity in the United States. Although often misunderstood, this holiday has evolved to become a celebration of roots, pride, resistance, and community. Today, more than a party, Cinco de Mayo is a cultural affirmation: we are here, we contribute, we participate, and we also build.
Throughout these twelve months, we have managed to form a generous, attentive, and critical reading community. And we have also consolidated a team of enthusiastic, professional, and deeply committed contributors. Thank you to everyone who has made this project possible. Thank you for trusting, for sharing, for writing, and for reading us. This is just the beginning. We will continue on this path that—like your voice—goes far beyond any border.
ARTWORK: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Every May 5th, cities across the United States fill with music, folk dances, colorful parades, and countless activities celebrating Mexican culture. However, behind this popular celebration lies a little-known story, driven by nearly invisible heroes who transformed a date almost forgotten in Mexico into a powerful symbol of resistance and unity in the United States through their effort, passion, and pride.
What began as a modest commemoration of Mexican heritage gradually evolved into a multifaceted cultural phenomenon that transcends its historical origins. The transformation of Cinco de Mayo from a minor Mexican holiday to a widespread American celebration represents one of the most fascinating cultural adaptations in modern U.S. history. This process blended grassroots activism, cultural pride, commercial interests, and the ongoing struggle for representation and respect.
May 5th commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, heroically defeated the invading French troops. However, this historic victory does not receive the same level of celebration in Mexico as Independence and Revolution commemorations do; the significance that Cinco de Mayo would gain decades later across the border was achieved thanks to the effort and struggle of the Mexican American community.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Chicano activists in the United States fought tirelessly for civil rights, equality, and identity recognition.
Amid this context, May 5th emerged as a powerful symbol. It was not merely a celebration but an explicit declaration of resistance against the discrimination and racism faced by the Latino community. What made Cinco de Mayo particularly significant was its perfect timing and symbolic resonance: it represented a triumph against a seemingly invincible opponent, mirroring the David-versus-Goliath struggle that many Mexican Americans identified with in their fight for equality. The celebration became a vehicle for cultural affirmation at a time when pressures to assimilate threatened to erase ethnic identities.
Key figures like Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzá les in Denver, an emblematic activist of the Chicano movement, played a crucial role in this process.
Corky Gonzáles was known for his passionate poem “I Am Joaquín,” which became an anthem of pride and resistance for Mexican Americans, encouraging them to reclaim their identity and fight for their rights.
Corky’s activism was reflected in literature and concrete actions such as founding the Crusade for Justice organization, which promoted cultural and educational events around May 5th.
In addition to Corky Gonzáles, other essential leaders were César Chávez and Dolores Huerta, who stood out for their tireless advocacy for the labor rights of agricultural workers. Although their activism primarily focused on labor rights, both recognized the cultural and symbolic significance of May 5th as a tool to
Cinco de Mayo in the United States evolved from a minor Mexican holiday into a powerful symbol of Latino identity through the efforts of Chicano activists in the 1960s and 1970s. Led by figures like Corky Gonzáles and Dolores Huerta, local celebrations gradually entered mainstream American culture
INVISIBLE HEROES
With Latino Identity And Pride
strengthen community identity and promote solidarity.
Organizations like MEChA (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán) began to use May 5th to unite the community, highlight their struggles, and celebrate their culture and roots. These early celebrations were modest, taking place in predominantly Latino neighborhoods, featuring passionate speeches, small marches, and community gatherings. Over time, the date gained momentum and spread to other cities.
In Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Houston, the festivities began to attract not only Mexican Americans but also individuals from diverse communities who found this date to be an inclusive and diverse celebration.
Also notable are figures like Reies López Tijerina, an activist who defended the rights of Latino communities to their ancestral lands in New Mexico, who regarded May 5th as a strategic date to make their demands visible. Another significant figure was Bert Corona, a community leader who promoted political education campaigns and citizen participation among Mexican Americans in California, further strengthening the collective identity around the date.
Another fundamental aspect of the resurgence of May 5th was the role played by Latino media in the United States. From community radio stations to Spanish-language newspapers, these platforms served as key spaces to promote the commemoration, disseminate its history, and organize public events. On radio programs like “La Voz del Pueblo” or publications like “La Opinión,” May 5th became a central topic for weeks, instilling a sense of pride in thousands for a date that had previously been ignored.
Schools were also crucial settings. In school districts with a high Latino presence, committed teachers incorporated May 5th into their curricula, not as a folkloric date but as an opportunity to teach history, civics, and cultural awareness. Thanks to these initiatives, many Mexican American children grew up knowing that their history also mattered and that they had their heroes and dates to celebrate.
We cannot forget the role of women in this cultural renaissance. In addition to Dolores Huerta, many mothers, teachers, neighborhood organizers, and community workers, working from anonymity, sewed traditional costumes, prepared food for events, taught regional dances, and passed down the story to new generations. Their silent contributions were key for May 5th to be celebrated in the streets and homes. For community leaders, May 5th’s essence lies in its ability to highlight the strength, resilience, and dignity of Latino people in the face of adversity. Through this date, entire generations have learned to value their cultural heritage, recognizing the importance of their identity as Mexican Americans.
May 5th in the United States represents much more than a mere celebration. It serves as a living testament to the transformative power of invisible heroes who, from anonymity, have turned this date into an eternal symbol of
and Latin
MEXICO AND THE UNITED STATES:
SHARED PROBLEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Interview with Dr. Kim Wilcox*
DB. - I wanted to start with you sharing some of the opportunities that this place in Mexico [Casa de la Universidad de California] has for collaboration between our two countries.
K.W. - Every good university knows they can’t answer every question, at least by themselves. We want very much to find partners to help us answer the tough questions of the day. For the United States and for Mexico, many of those tough questions are shared. Environment, health, migration, transportation, those are issues that we have to deal with together because we have the very same problems and the very same challenges. We’re looking for good partners to help us answer those questions.
D.B. - California also has a history and a reputation for being innovative and progressive in its thinking and some of these values seem to be receding worldwide nowadays. In this context, what would the role of UC Riverside and Casa de la Universidad de California be?
K.W. – I see it as consistent with the role of universities around the world. We have to continue regardless of where the political pressures are, pursue what we think is the best future, and that is the most informed future. You can deny some aspects of climate change, but others are undeniable. We need
…the extent to which we can help each other through the tough times on both sides of the border is really a great opportunity for us…
to work together to face those head on and address them.
There are people who say we shouldn’t have vaccines. Well, we know better than that as a collective scientific organization in the world.
We need to stay true to that path. Governments will come and go, politics will swing right and left, but we need to continue to move forward to what we think is the right direction.
D.B. - Now you’ve been Chancellor at UC Riverside since 2013. What would you say your personal mark on the university is?
K.W. - I’m really proud of the fact that in the United States, most of the country sees Riverside as unique in that we are one of the largest research centers in America, with Nobel Laureates on the faculty and large research centers, but we also are number one in the country in changing students’ lives. We make a bigger difference in individual students, particularly students from low-income families, than any other university in America.
D.B. - Another core issue, which is not only an issue between the United States and Mexico, is migration. I think Mexico and the United States could be fertile ground for a humane model and managing migration. What actions should the institutions and individuals take in the face of all these restrictive policies?
K.W. - In both our nations, our universities tend to be respected institutions. That’s an important asset that we need to think about.
development.Whatwouldbethecriticalpathfor both of our nations to reach a point of success?
K.W. - Partnership is always key. We have over the last few decades; we’ve been back and forth as nations. We’ve been ahead in terms of funding, you’ve been ahead, and right now we’re both kind of struggling and that’s a real challenge for us and our partners in Mexico. We are right now in the United States working very closely with our federal government to stem some of the decisions that they’re trying to make about funding. I’ve been trying to help the government understand what those changes mean. The world of research is one that you can’t turn on and turn off.We have scientists who work on an important problem their entire career, 20-30 years of individual study and research to find a solution to a problem. You can’t just stop that and be able to restart it. It’s a huge lost investment of people and time and money. Even those who are more interested in money than research do understand, I hope, that that lost investment is unwise. The extent to which we can help each other through the tough times on either side of the border is a great opportunity.
D.B. - What do you see could improve in the Baja region that could foster and deepen this collaboration?
K.W. - We have to be very proud of the relationship between Tijuana and San Diego. And that’s the municipalities, but also the universities in those two cities.
University of California, San Diego has been a great partner, I think, with Tijuana and with Baja. Building on that piece and starting with transportation, starting with the border, starting with how do we move goods back and forth across the border in a safe but efficient way. All those things are good for the economy. Whether you’re someone who wants more money spent on research or less money spent on research, a good economy helps. It’s something that’s bipartisan. The progressives and the conservatives like a stronger economy. There are some things we can do for each other that will strengthen our joint economies.
D.B. - One of the shortcoming promises of technology is widespread access to knowledge and information that are true, and it seems we’re moving somewhat in the opposite direction. What do you think we could be doing about this?
*Dr.
Kim Wilcox is Chancellor of the University of California at Riverside
We here at the Casa with partnership, particularly with UNAM, have worked to bring groups of political leaders together and policy makers together to talk about migration, to talk about the border and the issues that are assigned to the border and how we can work together in the future. It’s not so much doing laboratory work as affecting the right dialogue in parties on both sides.
D.B. - In terms of integration of migrant communities into our societies, high quality education is very, very important. So, how can we avoid school desertion and increase graduation?
K.W. - Several things come to mind. One, of course, that is where we’re fortunate to live in California. We have a scientist who has been working on education at the border. We have tens of thousands of students who live in one country and our citizens
in the other and vice versa and they move back and forth. So, they’ll live three years in the United States and then three years in Mexico.
Well, the educational systems are completely different. And they may not learn, they may not know the language in either direction when they move to the other country. The curriculum is disjointed. She’s worked with school districts along the border to help both sides understand the nature of that experience for small children and how they can both work to make the transition easier.
There’s lots of ways to think about the border that affect geopolitics like USMCA but also affect individual families and small children.
D.B.- The University of California is home to some national research labs and other main hubs for research and development, but budget and finance seem to also have some issues right now. Mexico hasn’t caught up with research and
K.W. - Very good question and it’s not an easy one for us to deal with as a world. It is certainly the case that technology has expanded access in many ways. We could not have survived as educational organizations through the pandemic without technology. That’s been a that was crucial to us for great school through universities. But at the same time, increasingly the more advanced technology is limited to the very wealthy people. There are lots of universities in both our countries who simply don’t have the resources to provide the opportunities for their students that other universities can. And those universities with the wealth, with the high-tech computers, with the fast machines are using resources. They’re using electricity, they’re using water to cool the data centers, and those are resources belong to everybody. I worry about while access is increasing, the gap is getting even larger and larger. And again, that’s true in both of our countries and something that we both need to be thinking about.
D.B. - Could you please share with us what your next steps here at Casa de la Universidad de California Mexico are?
K.W. – We want to set a frame to help all of our universities in the two countries find a way to work together on these big issues. That really is where I think my heart is in, where the direction has to be. We’re still going to cover all topics and be supportive of lots of work, but we have to come to grips with these bigger issues, and that’s going to take more than just one university or more than one country. 06/07
BY: DANIEL BENET
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
A beloved tradition celebrated by Mexicans, Latinos, and Americans alike is on the verge of disappearing. Organizers of Chicago’s annual Cinco de Mayo Parade have decided to cancel this year’s event to protect the immigrant community from potential immigration raids prompted by policies advocated by President Donald Trump.
The parade represents more than a civic celebration where Mexicans proudly embrace their identity and history; it also serves as a significant economic boost. Spending and consumption associated with this event, particularly in the Little Village, Chicago community, generates between $6 and $8 million
Nevertheless, we, the organizers, have decided to suspend this celebration to protect Mexicans and migrants from potential detention and deportation raids, as nothing matters more than their safety. Our community is deeply concerned about the raids and the threat posed by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) to families who work tirelessly to give their children a better future.
It was not an easy decision, but it was the most responsible one.
The primary goal for myself, the organizers, and all participants is to ensure the safety and integrity of our community members.
We are not focused on the money. People must understand that our decision is not financially motivated but rather driven by concerns for everyone’s security. We made this choice because we believe that protecting our community is the right thing to do, as, unfortunately, any large gathering could become a target for immigration raids.
As a Mexican migrant living in Chicago for the past 45 years, I have never witnessed persecution comparable to what we see today under Trump’s administration. Never before have I experienced anything so devastating in this country. The Cinco de Mayo Parade has been a cherished tradition for over 40 years in Chicago.
Funded by the migrants themselves, it has become a citywide celebration that transcends political, ethnic, and other differences.
It is truly disheartening to see it canceled after so many years.
While the event was canceled
TRUMPSOWSFEAR
Cinco de Mayo parade canceled in Chicago amid fears of immigration raids
in 2020 and 2021 due to health concerns and the potential spread of the Coronavirus, it has never been canceled because of political differences or policies directly driven by the government, specifically the threats of detention and deportation initiated by President Trump. Yes, we have had cancellations before, but this is the first time we are canceling due to fears of immigration raids.
Detentions and deportations of immigrants have increased dramatically in recent months, largely due to the immigration policies of the current U.S. administration.
CINCO DE MAYO: A CELEBRATION SUSPENDED
The Cinco de Mayo Parade traditionally occurs in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. This community consists of Mexican migrants who settled here peacefully, seeking proximity to downtown Chicago. It is a neighborhood where everyone has become one big family.
In addition to fostering community bonding, this event significantly boosts the local economy, generating up to $8 million for businesses in the neighborhood and surrounding areas.In this sense, Trump’s immigration policies harm not only migrants but also local entrepreneurs who benefit from these festivities.
CHICAGO, A
THREATENED SANCTUARY
We must recall that President Trump’s immigration policies, which aggressively pursue detention and deportation of migrants, have targeted sanctuary cities—those more supportive of migrants, like Chicago. However, in cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Houston, and Atlanta, immigration authorities have intensified their operations. Recent months have witnessed increased raids and detentions affecting Mexicans and migrants from around the globe, especially Central Americans.
On May 5, 2025, there will be no patriotic celebration, festivities, colorful parades, lively music, or shared culinary delights. However, the community continues to “celebrate” by caring for each other, as this also forms part of our identity. Now, our priority is safety.We urge our community to stay united. We contribute billions of dollars to the U.S. economy and take on some of the most challenging jobs—jobs many others do not want to do. We’re already seeing and hearing that companies are facing staffing problems because of this new administration’s migrant crackdown under President Donald Trump. Even if we may not march through the streets, and although fear might try to erase us from Chicago, the Mexican community remains present, continues to
BY: HÉCTOR ESCOBAR*
ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
* Héctor Escobar serves as the president of Casa Puebla Inc. and the Cermak Road Industry Inc. Chamber of Commerce.
TOURISM DIPLOMACY:
A Commitment To Development And International Projection
The training of the diplomatic corps is more critical than ever, as their responsibilities go far beyond issuing passports or official documents.
The Tourism Tianguis, in its 1st binational edition, in the Baja California-San Diego mega-region, is the perfect example of collaboration between multiple levels of government and the private sector
In an increasingly interconnected and competitive world, diplomacy continues to play a central role as an essential instrument for dialogue, international outreach, and coordination of national efforts. In recent years, foreign ministries, far from being diluted by an increasingly turbulent world, have strengthened their role as coordinators of foreign policy, mobilizing the work of embassies, consulates, and representative offices to achieve coherent and effective strategies.
The training of the diplomatic corps is more critical than ever, as their responsibilities go far beyond issuing passports or official documents. In modern diplomacy, they are called upon to represent the country’s political and economic interests with professionalism, avoiding improvisation and actively promoting strategic sectors such as trade and culture, academic, technological, and scientific exchange. Within these tasks, tourism promotion is prominent, understood not only as an income-generating industry but as an ideal development tool that strengthens ties and fosters mutual understanding among nations.
In this context, globalization and the expansion of social media have helped shape a comprehensive tourism promotion strategy that involves embassies, consulates, specialized agencies, local governments, the private sector, and, crucially, the communities themselves. Far from being mere recipients of tourism, these communities take on a leading role as active agents in creating and implementing programs that reflect local identity, knowledge of the territory, and hospitality. Their participation guarantees an authentic and sustainable offering, ensuring that the economic, cultural, and social benefits directly impact at the local level, strengthening the social fabric, promoting inclusive development, and respecting the cultural heritage of each region.
In a highly competitive environment, there is no place for improvisation. Each action must correspond to a defined strategy, combining in-depth knowledge of the destinations with negotiation skills and the development of strategic alliances that directly benefit the country. This is where the professional training of diplomats is essential to effectively communicate the country’s offerings.
Mexico has been an example of this trend with states such as Yucatan, Guanajuato, Baja California,
*Ambassador Alicia G. Kerber Palma is a career diplomat and currently the Consul General of Mexico in San Diego. Within these tasks, tourism promotion is prominent, understood not only as an incomegenerating industry but as an ideal development tool that strengthens ties and fosters mutual understanding among nations. Our country is still the top foreign destination for U.S. travelers.
is the perfect example of how collaboration between multiple levels of government and the private sector can project a local strategy into the global sphere. With the participation of 1,100 buyers and 3,200 exhibitors from 43 countries, this event was a commercial showcase and a powerful engine of regional integration. We will continue building bridges of knowledge and collaboration between two countries that share much more than a border, as they are united by their history, values, and above all, by their communities. Every effort we make, alliance we forge, and initiative we promote aims to strengthen these deep ties that define us and to project a shared future of prosperity and mutual understanding.
BY: ALICIA G. KERBER PALMA
ARTWORK: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Originally from Autlán, Jalisco, Carlos Santana is a guitar prodigy who became a U.S. citizen—a symbol of the blend between the culture of one’s homeland and that of their new country. He, too, is a migrant— not a criminal—but like many others who left their birthplace, he brought talent, perseverance, and the determination to pursue a dream through hard work. Before launching his professional music career, Santana worked as a dishwasher at a restaurant in San Francisco.
Two nationalities, the musical influence of two countries, one guitar, and a style that for decades has symbolized the fusion of cultures and the power of music to transcend borders— everything is concentrated in Santana.
Latin rhythms, yes—but also blues and jazz—have uniquely shaped the sound of Carlos Humberto Santana Barragán, better known as Carlos Santana.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in the world, Santana will tour the United States and Europe in 2025.
As part of his “Oneness Tour 2025,” Carlos Santana has eight shows scheduled in May—on the 14th, 15th, 17th, 18th, 21st, 22nd, 24th, and 25th—at the House of Blues inside the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world. He’ll continue his tour through June, July, and August in Europe, with performances in Poland, Hungary, Germany, Great Britain, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Monaco, Spain, and Denmark.
Carlos Santana is undoubtedly a Mexican American who has achieved international success. He proudly carries his Latin roots, which have not held him back but have been a constant source of inspiration.
A UNIQUE STYLE
Santana was born in Jalisco, Mexico—the land of mariachi. His family was involved in that genre, so he was immersed in deeply traditional Mexican music from a young age.
He later lived in Tijuana, where the blues influence from African American communities in the southern United States made its way across the border. Eventually, he moved to the U.S. and became a naturalized citizen.
In San Francisco, California, Santana
found the perfect setting to blend his Latin roots with blues, rock, and jazz, creating an unmistakable sound that defines and distinguishes him as one of the greatest guitarists ever.
His music is a language that fuses the passion and rhythm of Latin America with the raw energy of North American rock. Alongside the mix of rhythms are the instruments themselves: his electrifying guitar is often joined by bongos, timbales, and other traditional Latin instruments, creating a rock style that had never been heard before. The result? Originality—Carlos Santana’s signature.
Among his most iconic songs are “Black Magic Woman,” “Oye Cómo Va,” “Samba Pa Ti,” and “Smooth.” Each showcases his ability to transcend genres and borders, masterfully blending Latin melodies with rock and jazz improvisation.
MORE THAN 50 YEARS OF MUSIC
José Santana’s professional violinist father began teaching him to play at five. But it was the guitar that would become Carlos’s instrument for life.
In 1966, Santana emerged on the San Francisco music scene, forming the Santana Blues Band with David Brown, Marcus Malone, and Gregg Rolie—the first band named after a guitarist who wasn’t the lead vocalist. Throughout his career, Santana has received many accolades.
In 2015, Rolling Stone magazine ranked him 20th among the 100 greatest guitarists ever, highlighting his electric blues, African rhythms, and modern jazz. The top ten included Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Keith Richards, Jeff Beck, B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Eddie Van Halen, Duane Allman, and Pete Townshend. Santana has also won 10 Grammy Awards, which honor excellence in the recording arts and sciences and aim to ensure music remains an enduring part of our culture.
Santana is one of only two artists to have won the most Grammys in a single night— tied with another music legend, Michael Jackson. Jackson earned eight Grammys in 1984 for Thriller, and Santana matched that record in 2000 with his album Supernatural.
HE’S ALSO A PHILANTHROPIST
Carlos Santana dedicates time and resources to supporting various causes across human rights, the environment, health, and education.
He even founded the Milagro Foundation, which funds organizations that support underserved children in the arts, education, and health. The foundation operates in 36 U.S. states and 18 other countries.
It’s another example of migrants who don’t take away but give back whenever they can.
According to his official website, santana. com, Santana supports numerous organizations, including the United Farm Workers, Amnesty International, Save the Children, Doctors Without Borders, Greenpeace, the American Indian College Fund, the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles, and the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD).
ABICULTURALFUSION
July 18, 1947, in Autlán de Navarro, Jalisco.
BY: ANGÉLICA SIMÓN UGALDE ART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Santana forming the Santana Blues Band
Santana earned eight Grammys in a single night
guitarists
This Mexican woman crossed the border to defy her fate and become a world champion.
Even though life took her on a different path, she continued fighting.
SINDY AMADOR WITHOUT BORDERS DREAMS
BY: ÉRIKA MONTOYA
The life of Mexican boxer Sindy Amador cannot be understood without considering boxing, as well as the weight of migration, loss, and necessity.
Her story illustrates an intense woman shaped by challenges and resilience, who discovered not only discipline but also a way of life in boxing, which she still embraces today.
Born in Durango, Mexico, her childhood was abruptly disrupted at the age of eight when she lost her mother in a car accident.
From that point onward, innocence vanished from her life. Her father, an amateur boxer who trained under the legendary Ignacio Beristáin at the Mexican Olympic Committee, instilled a strong work ethic from an early age.
She joined the family business, a fruit shop, where she learned the value of hard work above all. She always wished to support her sisters, even at the cost of her schooling.
Boxing entered her life almost accidentally after a street fight with another girl at the age of 12. Her father could not bear to see her disheveled and crying, so he took her to the gym. Initially, it was an exercise to lose weight, but soon it became a passion. At one of Durango’s traditional gyms, she observed a slim young woman punching mitts fiercely and skillfully:
“Even if she doesn’t know it, and don’t remember her name, she inspired me to follow in her footsteps. She punched so beautifully and powerfully. I wanted to do the same,” she recalls for Heraldo USA.
Economic hardships compelled her father to migrate to the United States. After some time, Sindy chose to follow him, crossing the border without documentation. She did this for her sisters, hoping to work, earn money, and return to Mexico as a heroine.
“The idea in my mind was simple. I said, ‘I’ll go to the U.S., make money, and return as a millionaire.’ But it wasn’t like that at all. Everything turned out differently, and many years later, I’m still here,” she said, laughing.
Neither her father nor her stepmother found work quickly, so at 18, she took on the responsibility of supporting the household. She sold fruit, washed dishes, waited tables, modeled, acted in theater, cared for the elderly, and worked as a masseuse. She sometimes juggled three jobs and slept for only four hours a day.
“When you come to the U.S., you must do everything to survive,” she says. “My father taught me to work hard and never give up.”
Despite everything, she never fully abandoned her dream of boxing. Since the age of 15, she knew she wanted to throw punches, but the circumstances were not favorable.
The lack of documents, money, and time, along with being a woman in a hostile environment, constituted constant obstacles. Nevertheless, her faith and tenacity drove her forward. “When you have a dream, God and life provide the means and the people,” she asserts.
At 26, she finally made her professional debut in San Bernardino, California, in 2010—a unanimous decision victory over Blanca Raymundo that is etched in her memory.
Her professional career lasted only four years
but was impactful. She remained undefeated in 10 fights and won the International Boxing Association’s (IBA) light flyweight title. Her name began to gain recognition among contenders, and her big opportunity appeared to come against Ava Knight for the World Boxing Council title in a televised bout. It was her dream, her moment, her consecration.
But destiny had other plans. Before the fight, a retinal detachment in her left eye forced her into a harsh decision: retirement. It was devastating. She underwent six surgeries but did not fully recover. Instead, she chose to protect her eyesight, leaving behind her desire to compete again.
“Suddenly, my career ended. I had to say no to the fight of my life, and it’s still excruciating. I haven’t overcome it yet. But I believe everything happens for a reason, and surely God has other plans for me,” she admits.
The emptiness of her premature retirement plunged her into deep sadness. She learned to write and became a reporter to maintain a connection with boxing as a form of catharsis.
Since then, she has written online articles about the sport that shaped her and continues to give meaning to her days.
Boxing taught me to fight and to get back up.
Even without stepping into the ring, I practice boxing every day.
Sindy Amador is now a bodybuilder, and although she doesn’t hold a championship belt, her story carries the weight of greatness.
She embodies thousands of migrant women who persevere and strive to carve out a path.
While her athletic career
ARTWORK: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Omar Chávez, son of Julio César Chávez, taught her to use the speed bag.
At the age of 15, she knew she would become a world champion.
She sparred with several current champions, including Seniesa Estrada.
world champion Israel Vázquez was a dear friend and a source of inspiration.
She trained under coach Chico López.
