Building off of yesterday's blog post, I mention again that Nahuatl itself is spoken by at least 1.6 million people in Mexico (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía, 2020).
Let’s also celebrate, rather than punish, diversity. After all, diversity is not just a source of strength and creativity—it is a vital safeguard against the erosion of our shared humanity and our still-young democracy.
Let’s celebrate—not punish—diversity. It’s not only a source of strength and creativity, but a crucial defense against threats to our shared humanity and still-young democracy.
In Texas, recent legislation has targeted DEI programs in public institutions. Governor Abbott has banned DEI offices in higher education and is pushing for similar bans in K–12, claiming they create division. These moves reflect a broader rollback of efforts to support our communities’ diverse backgrounds.
In contrast, Mexico embraces its cultural diversity, recognizing over 68 national languages and 364 language variants—one of the world’s most linguistically rich landscapes. Its commitment to preservation highlights how diversity can be a national asset.
For more on this, check out the 2024 article, "How Many Indigenous Languages are Spoken in Mexico?" Also, see a 2024 piece in Datahub Central Indigenous People In Mexico for more information.
On a related matter, UNESCO's World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is coming up on May 21. Our nations, including the U.S. should make May 21st a federal holiday that celebrates diversity. Mexico could, as well. Why not? Órale, let's start a campaign on both sides of the border.
May all have a wonderful day and weekend!
-Angela Valenzuela
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