Blog #2

When I began reading chapter four, I began to picture these paintings in my mind. For some odd reason when I think of these paintings, I think of Elvis. I don't know if I ever really made a connection between velvet paintings and the Hispanic population, but as I continued reading about Moran, Hardin and Velazquez I began to realize how relevant velvet paintings are to the Hispanic population. What once brought many out of poverty has also brought them back into poverty.

I don't think this is a painting I could ever she myself owning or wanting in my home, but after reading the chapter I can see the importance it had to many families. It was their living and how they supported their families. Though these paintings may have provided some positive aspects to many families, it also had negative ones as well. Many of these men spent their money on booze and women, and did it really ever give them happiness? It's as though it only provided a temporary solution to the poverty in Mexico and a way for some Americans to make more money and take advantage of the Mexicans.

As for ridicule in the classroom by other students, I do not think this should ever happen. First, it is important to build community within the classroom and learning how to accept others differences. It should not matter whether you are from this country or another. We all have tradtions with our families though some may be perceived as odd or unusual they are still are traditions and should be respected. Basically, I am saying we should practice what we preach. Which is we should respect others traditions and beliefs without ridicule. The school/classroom environment should be a place where students feel safe from ridicule.