Cinco de Mayo, often misunderstood as Mexico’s Independence Day (which is actually celebrated on September 16), commemorates the Mexican army’s unexpected victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. While it’s a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, it has taken on a broader cultural significance in the United States, especially among Mexican-American communities.

As Unitarian Universalists, we are called to uphold the inherent worth and dignity of every person, promote justice and compassion in human relations, and respect the interdependent web of all existence. From this perspective, how can we engage with Cinco de Mayo in a way that honors its history and the people it represents?

1. Honor the History with Integrity

Cinco de Mayo is not a day for commercialized stereotypes or shallow celebrations. It is a reminder of resilience, resistance to oppression, and national dignity. The Mexican army, though outnumbered and poorly equipped, stood up against a major world power. For UUs, this story resonates with our commitment to justice and the fight against imperialism.

We can take this opportunity to learn the real history, reflect on what it means to stand up for one’s community, and draw parallels to contemporary struggles against injustice in our own lives and society.

2. Celebrate Culture, Not Stereotypes

Too often, Cinco de Mayo in the U.S. is co-opted for parties that lean on harmful caricatures—sombreros, fake accents, and commodified “Mexican” food and drink. As people of faith committed to equity and compassion, we must be mindful not to appropriate culture for entertainment.

Instead, we can choose to celebrate the richness of Mexican culture with respect. That might mean supporting Mexican-owned businesses, enjoying traditional music and cuisine mindfully, or inviting voices from Mexican and Mexican-American communities to share their stories and perspectives.

3. Stand in Solidarity

Unitarian Universalism is not a passive faith. We are asked to show up for those who are marginalized. Cinco de Mayo provides a moment to reflect on the systemic injustices faced by many in the Latinx community, including issues of immigration, wage inequity, and racism.

Celebrating this day can also be a call to action: to advocate for fair policies, to support organizations working for immigrant justice, and to ensure that the voices of Mexican and Latinx individuals are heard and respected in our congregations and communities.

4. Build Bridges of Understanding

In our diverse and interconnected world, cultural celebrations like Cinco de Mayo can serve as opportunities for bridge-building. This means not just attending a festival or enjoying the food, but engaging in genuine learning and conversation. In UU congregations, this might take the form of worship services that highlight Mexican culture and history, religious education for all ages about cultural humility, or partnerships with local Latinx organizations.

A Celebration of Spirit and Solidarity

Cinco de Mayo reminds us that cultural celebration and justice work are not separate. For Unitarian Universalists, honoring this day with integrity is one way to live our principles in the world: through respect, solidarity, and the recognition that our liberation is bound together.

Let us celebrate not just with joy, but with justice.