How Do Mexico and the US Perceive Each Other?


What parallel makes Hamill empathize with Mexican migrants?

Hamill’s were Irish immigrants who faced hardships and had dreams that were similar to those of the Mexican migrants that he met.

What does he mean by “marginalized one”?

In Mexico he was the outsider who did not know the language, understand the society or have a support network.

Three defining values? Family, work, dignity.

What does he mean by “in Mexican society; everybody knew the rules.”?

I’m don’t fully understand this statement, but Hamill is at least partly referring to Mexico’s rigid class structure which restricts behavior, expectations and social interactions.

“Journalism – including my own – is often a blunt instrument”?

Journalism is sensational. That’s what sells papers and programs. Sensational reporting does not reveal the great complexity behind many issues.

Stereotypes produced by journalism? US media has caused many US citizens to associate Mexico only with resorts, drug smugglers, drug violence and corruption.

Drug hypocrisy? US is the market for the drugs. US is the supplier of weapons used by Mexican smugglers.

Mexican-American War? Characterized as “unjust” by US warriors who fought in it.

Slavery? Battle of the Alamo fought at least partially over slavery.

Wider context?

Journalists covering Mexico must learn Mexican society (literature, pop culture, art, architecture…) to give context to stories.

What’s he mean by “that historical context also has a modern context”?

Current issues can only be understood with an understanding of the evolution of the factors that contribute to the issue.