JE #1A

Growing up, the image of Speedy Gonzalez is one that I would see on my neighbor’s blankets and pillowcases. I did not watch the show nor was I big fan, but he was inevitable to escape, especially in a predominately “brown barrio”. After reading a little more regarding the history of the show and the character of Speedy, I’ve come to a more critical understanding. The show is derogatory towards not only the Mexican-American community, but to all those who identity or get mistaken by the overarching Latina/o label. People who may not have grown up in “brown barrios” or experienced interaction with people from those communities often times than most, have these stereotypes ingrained in their understanding of people that resemble those that are portrayed in the show. The article of “Speedy Gonzales Caged…” is a perfect example of how people who defend the cartoon would rationalize it…”its just Speedy”. It’s basically just the same narrative that is fed to us by the overrepresented hegemonic structures that we find in a “post-racial” society i.e. It’s not about race! I guess it’s ok to mock cultures as long as it’s not the hegemonic on in play. Regardless though the cartoon is detrimental to the well-being of “brown communities” and by extension those that find themselves identified along-side these communities.