Univision has a drinking problem, too

People look at me strange at parties when I turn down alcohol for diet soft drink.

They think: "Aren't you Hispanic? You folks are supposed to be big drinkers. Cerveza!, por favor, or is it 'pour some more'."

What they don't add to this stereotype, particularly about Mexican-Americans, is that we're also thought to be drunken, stupid and taking siestas all the time.

I don't drink much because I don't like the taste. Besides, I don't have to be inebriated to have a good time, just be with my good wife watching TV, playing with the pets or arguing over politics.

I don't begrudge anyone else to drink. But when the stereotype and the reality become so damaging to the welfare of all Hispanics, then I believe a line should be drawn. For our own good.
The recruitment of big dollars from beer and liquor companies by the National Council of La Raza to fund its functions and services is becoming scandalous. But NCLR is not at fault alone.

I received the following information from my good friend Marisa Treviño, publisher of one of the best Hispanic news and political websites, latinalista.net:

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE) -- "Nominees for the first ever annual “Tecate Premios Deportes” (Tecate Sports Awards) were announced today by Univision."

Tecate is an alcoholic product. The awards sponsor is Heineken USA and FEMSA Cerveza. FEMSA is the largest integrated beverage company in Latin America.

Use of this kind of moneyby Latino institutions just reinforces the stereotypes about all Hispanics. And the reality of politically damaging DUI accidents that take lives has a ravaging ripple effect. These accidents also take away the freedoms and hopes of many Hispanics who have come to this nation to better their lives. Heinous programs like the 287(g) deportation process in Nashville amass political support with every drink tied to every accident tied to every advertisement telling Latinos to have a good time by getting loaded.

Marketing disclaimers by alcohol businesses for Latinos to drink responsibly are a joke. But the taking of money by Hispanic organizations claiming to fight for our civil rights and keeping us informed is a serious matter.

NCLR and Univision know better about the damage being done in Hispanic communties by alcohol. And if they don't, then they have no reason to claim any kind of contribution to the welfare of Latinos everywhere.