January 2007 Volume I, Issue I - Current Students

La Voz
January 2007
Volume I, Issue I
editor’s note
I was truly avoiding writing this editor’s note. I have so much
to say without knowing how to express it. Fall 2006 was a semester
unlike any other. I had yet to have one where I went through so much
emotionally, both for this magazine and on a personal level, yet I learned
that despite the unexpected, I can still stand strong. I wanted to have a copy of La Voz in my hands in late November,
but unfortunately, things did not fall into place as I had hoped. However,
neither my staff nor I gave up hopes in seeing La Voz in print, and the
encouragement I receieved from everyone to continue on uplifted my
spirit in ways I cannot describe and helped us move forward with this
publication. I just want to say thank you to the La Voz staff. Each and every one of you came through with your
work and met all my crazy deadlines. I want to give a special thank you to Anthony Otero, our La L.U.C.H.A.
advisor. I do not think you understand how immense a role you played in this publication -your willingness to
listen to and share a vision for La Voz and see it carried out means the world to me still. To the La L.U.C.H.A.
e-board, I love you all!! To everyone else, your smiles helped me through the long days.
Well, it is finally here. Consider yourself a part of history. In your hand, you hold the very first issue of
La Voz magazine -the first of many to come. It was not easy gettting it together, but thanks to everyone’s help
you have it in your hands. So read it, enjoy it and pass it along to your friends.
Muchisimas gracias a todos y mucho amor,
Lorraine Tristan
Editor of La Voz
La Voz Staff:
Editor: Lorraine Tristan
Writers:
Idlami Acosta
Rosie García
Robert de Leon
Laura Maida
Celina Martínez
Hilda Martínez
Zulay Olivo
La Voz january 2007
Contributing Writers:
Jack Corbett
Anthony Otero
Max Patino
Cover Art:
Anthony Almonte
table of contents
forward...............................................p.4
anthony otero
nuestro país........................................p.5
laura maida
feature story........................................p.6
zulay olivo
lo que debes........................................p.8
idalmi acosta
nuestra gente......................................p.10
rosie garcía
tú voz..................................................p.12
laura maida
en el mundo.......................................p.13
jack corbett
política................................................p.14
hilda martínez
comida................................................p.16
hilda martínez, max patino
nuestro talento...................................p.19
robert de leon, celina martínez
Cover Art: Untitled
Anthony Almonte
Class of 2009
School of Visual and Performing Arts
Graphic Arts major
Painting minor
La Voz january 2007
forward
It has been a long time coming, but it is finally here. La Voz
holds a special place in my heart because it is a part of the legacy
that is La L.U.C.H.A. For many years has La Voz been the voice
of Latino Students, and this issue will renew that tradition. This
magazine represents the hard work of students and staff to show
the Syracuse University community our cultura.
La Voz has always been a large part of the campus. Since
that last issue in 2002, I have sensed that something was missing.
That is why I feel that this issue has truly been 3 years in the
making. Since I have joined on as the advisor of La L.U.C.H.A,
this student organization has been through many highs and lows, and this version of La Voz shows the level of
success that the organization is currently enjoying. This volume of La Voz is dedicated to those students who put
in the hard work to get this issue out and to those students in the past who tried to do the same.
The ball needs to continue rolling. To those reading this, you should know that we are always in need
of talented writers, poets, photographers, designers, and those who are willing to contribute their time. We are
looking for contributions from the Syracuse community and SU alumni as well. This version of La Voz is a
symbol of how far Latino students on this campus have come and a sign of how far Latino students needs to go.
This magazine is the voice for a population of students you may never really hear from, except in times of
a major “incident”. I encourage all students to let your voice be heard. Your opinions are important to continue the
changes that we all see on campus. Hopefully, this issue will inspire you to not only enjoy the upcoming semester
but to make your mark in someway.
I want to thank Lorraine Tristan for allowing me to be apart of the tradition that is La Voz. We have shared
a vision of what this magazine is. She is a very talented young woman who really will not let anyone stop her.
Lorraine was able to take what was done in the past and refine it to what you see today. Please enjoy this issue and
look forward to many more. Paz.
Anthony Otero
Assistant Director, SCPS
Advisor to La L.U.C.H.A
Class of 1996
La Voz january 2007
The pictures and information on this page: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2030.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Panamanians http://www.pa/secciones/entretenimien
to/index.php http://www.panamatours.com/Culture/culture_frame.htm http://www.panamainfo.com/en/listing_description/visitor_information/foodExperience/ http://www.infoplease.com/atlas/country/panama.html
nuestro país
Independencía: November 3, 1903
Capitál: Ciudad de Panama
Gobierno: Presidente Martín Torrijios
Espino
República Democrática
Personas Famosas
José “Chemin” Quintero: famous Theater
Director
El General: well-known rapper
Norma Mascoll: first women in the federal
system of the United States of America
promoted to DEH
Camilo A. Alleyne: gynecologist who in
1990 performed the first successful in Vitro
fertilization in Panama
Héctor Lopez: New York Yankees baseball
champion
Panama is known for its culturally connective location
between the Americas. Panama’s history has been influenced
by its strategic location since the
first explorations. Some of the most
ambitious explorers such as Rodrigo
de Bastidas and Vasco Nunez de
Balboa, used Panama as a convenient
la bandera
pathway towards exploring other
countries and locations. The route used by these explorers
came to be known as the Camino Real or Camino de Cruces.
As part of Panama’s history, the country’s population
is filled with a diversity of people of mestizo (mixed with
Spanish descent), Indigenous, Chinese, and West Indian
descent.
Frank Davis: first Panamanian NFL player
La Voz january 2007
Panamanian Cuisine
Fun Fact
origin
It is rumored that the
of
Panama’s
name
came from a tale often told of
indigenous kuna that would say
“bannaba” which means “farther
that way.” It was often told to
the explorers looking for gold.
Main courses include: Sancocho,
Corvina, Tamales, diferentes comidas con
mariscos
Side Dishes include: Patacones, Yuca
frita, Ceviche, Arroz con guandu
Desserts include: Flan, Pastel de Tres
feature
You Must Not Know About Us
...Black and Latino Retention in ECS
Zulay Olivo
I
Most Black or Latino students in any year will tell
52,598 students. Of these, 2,347 students were
you the high number of their friends dropping out of ECS,
African-American, Hispanic, or American-Indian. In 1994,
and how lonely it feels when you are the only one of color in
engineering degrees were awarded to 59,507 students,
your classes. It doesn’t help that most of these students feel
according to the Engineering Workforce Commission of
that there is no support being offered specifically aimed at
the American Engineering Society. Of these, 5,490 students
Latino Students. Sure there are the normal outlets offered to
were African-American, Hispanic, or American-Indian.1
everyone such as the PRIDE office, as well as other student
These numbers are astounding considering the growth in
organizations and societies. However, with the amount of
technology since 1979, with the emergence of personal
work demanded of an engineering student, the committment
computers, and music devices that fit in the palm of our
needed for these groups comes at a low percentage, even as a
hands. There is and always will be a need for engineers,
general body member. It is no wonder that underrepresented
and with diversity emerging as serious criteria in business,
groups struggle with attendance.
the demand for underrepresented students to enter
the fields of Engineering and Computer Science is at
large. However, it seems that we are not delivering the
supply fast enough.
Syracuse University meets the requirements
for being culturally aware and coherent to diversity
according to the National Association of Multicultural
Engineering
Program
Advocates
(NAMEPA).
Unfortunately, numbers do not always speak the
An ECS student spends a
Most Black or
Latino students in
any year will tell
you the high number
of their friends
dropping out of
ECS...
truth. Though the percentage of entering students
majority of their time with their
schoolwork,
and
it
would
be
beneficial to spend a good amount
of time with their professors,
instructors and T.A.s. Unfortunately,
most students feel that they cannot
approach the faculty with questions
or concerns about the classes they
are taking. The ECS Faculty does
and the percentage of graduating students are not too far in
not reflect the diversity that the students embody. It is hard
equivalence, these statistics fail to capture the truth of what
for a student to relate to the faculty for fear of not being
goes on within the College of Engineering and Computer
understood because of their distinctive ethnic background
Science (ECS).
or cultural habits. How does a student know which professor
La Voz january 2007
Endnotes1: National Association of Multicultural Engineering Program Advocates About NAMEPA 15 October 2006
<http://www.namepaorg/about/index.html>
n 1979, engineering degrees were awarded to
Pictures on this page courtesy of: http://www.ecs.syr.edu/eecs_doctoral.asp http://www.ecs.syr.edu/eecs_index.asp
will be open-minded and lenient about unique religious or
Diversity of course is not limited to ethnicity, but it includes
cultural holidays and which will not? Or which will give
hometowns, sexual orientation, economic background,
each student a fair chance, and which will judge a student
religious beliefs and more. Does this mean that ALL Black
from the beginning based on their race or sex.
and Latino students were admitted based on the flag they
There is a growing amount of tension within the
pin on their wall? Of course not. Does it mean that no Black
College of Engineering between its underrepresented
or Latino student in ECS have the potential or capability to
students and faculty, and a staff where the communication is
graduate? Of course not. However, why are the percentage
often one-sided. Students feel as if they are disillusioned by
of Black and Latino students transferring and leaving SU
the cultural security of Summer Start, only to find out in the
higher from ECS than most other schools on campus?
fall that they will not have the type of the support they had
More importantly, why has this issue not
in the summer. Even those who did not attend Summer Start
been brought to attention? As stated earlier, from an
have a harder time relating to students who share a “Summer
administrator’s perspective, there is nothing wrong with
Start bond” and now lose support from their peers.
the retention rates of ECS students of color. However, the
Students were admitted into ECS because they gave
quietness of this issue should not be ignored any longer, for
the impression they knew exactly what major they wanted to
I am sure that this is a problem that occurs no matter what
be in, they had a drive to be in the College of Engineering,
college you are in at SU. Is it so far fetched to think that we
plus they met the exceptional requirements needed from
as students have the ability to teach our faculty something.
their secondary school of education, so these students do
This is a community of education, and if we don’t tell our
not need to be hand held. However, it is becoming more and
professors that we are uncomfortable in their classroom, the
more apparent that many of the Black and Latino students,
same cycle will be repeated for years to come. Drop out
who were accepted as an ECS major, came with ECS as their
rates will continue to be a problem, and our presence in high
second choice school. Some students come here in hopes
paying industries will continue to be outrageously low. 
of transferring into Newhouse or Management. This comes
as a surprise, since ECS requirements are very demanding
in math and science and is essentially more difficult to get
accepted into than most other schools at SU. Could a reason
for this odd outcome be that ECS is letting in students based
on what they check on their Ethnicity box, rather than their
academic demonstration?
It is no secret that all colleges within Syracuse
University have a certain quota to fill in order to receive
from the L.C. Smith
College of Engineering
and Computer
Science
funding and “diversity” approval from their higher ups.
La Voz january 2007
lo que debes...
leer
“El Zorro”
Idalmi Acosta
a novel by Isabel Allende
“
El Zorro” by Isabel Allende relates the
we meet Diego de La
beginning of the story of this legendary hero.
Vega the man, not just
He is the brave defender of justice who stands between
the legend.
Diego
struggle of the people of Alta California at the end of the
“savage” who believes
18th century. Here we learn that though born in California
in justice and the power
he is sent to Spain when he is 15, and there he finds his
of change. He is the
first love and many adventures. Many have written about
first all American hero
el Zorro and movies have been made featuring Antonio
born in California and
Banderas as the legendary hero, but little do we know about
fighting for the people
Diego de la Vega’s beginnings. In Isabel Allende’s novel,
of the state. He is asked, “Do you truly believe that life is
“El Zorro”, we learn where de la Vega comes from and what
fair, Senor de la Vega?” “No”, he replies, “but I plan to do
has made him “El Zorro”.
everything in my power to make it so.”
...you feel as if you are living in it.
is
a
Another very important aspect of this novel is that
we really get a sense of that particular time in history. Many
El Zorro is loved and admired by many for his
people might not know much about the history of California
bravery. He fights for a noble cause, and though a very sad
and its people, and while reading the novel, you feel as if
truth, Isabel Allende manages to fill this story with humor
you are living in it. Allende draws you into the hot and dusty
and sarcasm. She captures the essence of the times through
days of work in the fields cultivating corn; you travel back
her characters and explaining the different stands on the
in time to a beautiful place full of very lively characters
issues of Christianity and the struggle of the indigenous
like the priest, “el padre Mendoza” who tries to civilize
people of California.
the Indians and Alejandro de la Vega who fights to protect
The narrative changes as we are able to hear the
the Spanish. Allende describes the landscapes and settings
characters thoughts and the conversations they carry with
and makes them important characters in their own right.
themselves, allowing us to really develop a relationship
Certainly the most interesting character is el Zorro, which
with the characters of this book. Allende is able to show us
we become intimate friends with through learning about his
the soul and history of this legendary man; for the first time
romances and adventures. The ending has a very interesting
continued on page 20
La Voz january 2007
Picture courtesy of: http://www.thelavinagency.com/articles_covers/Allende/zorro.jpg
the indigenous and Spanish culture. Not just this but the
ver
Latinos Find Success
in Hollywood
Idalmi Acosta
Picture courtesy of: http://www.impawards.com/2006/posters/mujer_de_mi_hermano.jpg
A
t the beginning of this year Lionsgate films
Suspense builds as we wait to see the truth unravel and the
premiered “La Mujer de mi Hermano” based
consequences that follow. The sexual tension between the
on the novel of the same title by Jaime Bayly. It’s a story
characters is very intense, creating a lot of excitement and
about Zoe (Barbara Mori), a woman married for 10 years
suspense. This movie tackles a lot of contemporary issues
to Ignacio (Christian Meier), a bisexual business man who
including homosexuality, religion and adultery. It definitely
only has time for sex on Saturdays. She realizes her life
gives the audience something to think about. It is a slow
has become dull and monotonous, lacking any passion or
build up to the end but definitely worth the wait! The plot is
surprise. When Ignacio’s younger brother Gonzalo (Manolo
pretty obvious from the beginning, the title helps give that
Cardona) comes to town, a romance arises between Gonzalo
away, but the richness of the movie is in seeing this story
and Zoe that creates a love triangle full of passion, revenge
unravel.
and secrets that threaten to destroy their relationships.
This movie is full of very talented actors; that carry
The sexual tension
between the
characters...
“La Mujer de mi Hermano” made more than one
million dollars in its premiere weekend, making this film a
out their roles realistically.
record holder of the largest premiere for a Latin American
We feel their passion, love
movie in the United States. This movie is currently on DVD
and hate and understand their
so feel free to check it out.
predicament. The movie is very
suspenseful as secrets and lies are discovered throughout it;
every scene has a purpose and does exactly what it intends.
Starring:
Rated: R
Christian Meier
Genre: Drama
Barbara Mori
Release Date:
Manolo
April 14, 2006
Cardona
Director:
Ricardo
de
Montreuil
Beto Cuevas
Gaby Espino
Studio:
Lionsgate Films
Angelica Aragon
Bruno Bichir
La Voz january 2007
nuestra gente
Una Mujer Extrordinaria...
Linda Martín-Alcoff
Rosie García
D
amas y caballeros, presenting… Professor
high school and college dropout. I’m sure you’re asking,
Linda Martin-Alcoff. Quien? I bet many of
how is it possible
you are wondering who Professor Alcoff is. Keep reading.
she is a Professor
Te lo juro she’s a cool person to know.
of
Philosophy
at
Linda Martin-Alcoff is a Professor of Philosophy at
SU? As many of us
SU and the Director of Women’s Studies department. She
Latinos know, young
is the co-chair for University Senate for Diversity, she sits
single
on the Humanities Council, is involved in Latin American
struggle. Eventually
Studies, and is part of incorporating LGBT studies at SU.
she got her G.E.D,
And if that wasn’t enough for the Panamian-born and Florida
a B.A. at Georgia
raised super professor, she is a also a feminista, a mother, a
State, and her Ph.d.
wife, and a writer. She has written nine books and more
at Brown University. During the time she was a college
than a dozen essays on topics of gender, race, and identity.
student, she worked many jobs, ranging from a seamstress at
Exhausted already? Dije lo a ella.
a factory, fast food restaurants, waitresing, being a cashier,
mothers
=
Linda Martín-Alcoff, Ph.d
Director of Women’s Studies
Department
Professor of Philosophy at SU
a receptionist, a lab assistant for a nuclear research facility,
going as it seems. At the age of 3 Alcoff moved to Florida,
and much more in order to pay her bills for school and home
leaving behind her beloved father and country: Panama. In
life. So if she can do it, todos podemos hacerlo.
her words, “Growing up in the South wasn’t easy.” Alcoff
Linda Martin-Alcoff is proof that all is possible
struggled with her mixed-race identity; she has an American
when one is determined and proof that you do not have
mother and a Panamanian father. Racism was very much
to “sell-out” your identity or forget your culture in order
real in the time she was growing up. And now she is in a
to succeed. She embraces her Latina identity and takes
field where women and Latinos are not as visible, and that
an active role in it. When asked about her opinion of the
can present a struggle at times.
Latino voice at SU student-wise, she answered, “Being here
Llegandose aqui was no easy task. She was a
La Voz january 2007
18 years, the undergraduates voice is visible, less for the
Picture courtesy of: http://www.alcoff.com/index.html
But not everything has been peachy and as easy-
...to know where you are going, you must know where you come from.
graduates.” As for the representation in her colleagues
(faculty members at SU), “Representation on the Faculty
is pathetic.” Like us, she understands the importance of
seeing a familiar Latino face in our classrooms.
As the interview wound down, and I asked her
if she had any last words, Alcoff jokingly stated with a
serious overtone, “Keep your Spanish.” She also advised
to take a class in Latino/Latina studies, stressing that it
is important to learn about our culture. Learn about US
Latinos. Because in order to know where you are going,
photo courtesy of: http://www.clacso.org/wwwclacso/espanol/html/libros/dussel/dussel.html
you must know where you come from. 
Just a thought:
Why does she do
philosophy?
“Because I love it”
Su heroe...
•
Argentinean
Philosopher, Historian
and Theologian
•
Concentrates
Philosophical works
on behalf of the
suffering in Latin
America
•
Critical in
the foundation of
Enrique D. Dussel
(1934 - )
philosophy of liberation
in Latin America.
•
Spreads awareness on radical socialpolitical thought such as Marxism
•
Written more than 50 Books focusing on
philosophy of Latin American
•
Topics: social & political analysis of
colonization and its effect on Latin America
today; militarization; roots of Indigenous and
African American and there impact in Latin
American culture; Marxism vs Capitalism and
much more
Famous Quotes:
“You reflect on the suffering of the Jews,
why not also consider the suffering of tens
of millions of Indians and African slaves in
Latin America?”
-Conversation with philosopher Emmanuel
Levinas
Congratulations to Linda Martin-Alcoff! Hispanic
Business dubbed her one of the Top 100 Influentials
for 2006.
La Voz january 2007
11
tú voz
On Comedy
...an opinion piece
Laura Maida
C
rant
from
comedy
is
amusement
the
reality
omedy is the last place you expect the
“They’re
urge to get up in disgust after a disturbing
black
a
most of the audience was in disgust and left the show.
comedian.
intended
of
a
of
Last
for
the
crowd;
racism
time
I
entertainment
although
is
checked,
lured
many
into
and
times,
what
is
going
man
a
to
arrest
n*****.”
me
After
for
the
calling
rage
a
outburst,
You may or may not agree with this outburst
of anger, but it does seem to lean towards the
inappropriate
these
Whether
the rug, and we all consciously know it. Though they may
inappropriate
not always come so quick to admit to it, then again, who
to
does? When it comes to comedy, it’s humorous to agree
comedy is intended to unify, not segregate.
crowd
slur
during
or
these
a
individual
not,
hateful
comedy
it
was
statements
hour,
where
with a comedian who is telling you the typical stereotypes
According to some public responses, individuals
of your race, and you find it fair to laugh at yourself and
are feeling disappointed in the final outcome of the show,
others because you’re not the only one getting picked
not only because of the sudden outrage of the actor, but
on. But what happens when that comical line is stepped
because of the realism behind the words of his hatred. But
over through its remarks? Is it then interpreted as racist?
at the same time, how helpful are we in the continual usage
of those same words in our everyday language? When did
Just recently a famous actor, from a comedy
series,
Factory
in
a
appeared
in
on
West
the
comedy
Hollywood
controversial
and
involved
themselves was ok? There has been years of slavery, tons
him over to a hateful rant. Before his anger was
have died because of the prejudice and discriminating usage
expressed, it was said that two African-Americans were
of that one word.
which
caused
mocking,
lose
comedian,
It is easier for someone to speak, read or teach
He
yelled
about that word’s history, and even easier to incorporate
years
ago
we’d
it in the modern day slang, but how is today any different
have you upside down with a f***ing fork up
from yesterday’s history with the continual usage of the “n”
your ass,” “You can talk, you can talk, you’re brave now
word? Many may not realize the power of words, or how by
motherf***er. Throw his ass out. He’s a n*****! He’s a
using it so openly, many allow people to see you as such.
including,
to
the
anger
control.
statements
him
at
his
anyone come to an accord that using the “n” word amongst
of blood shed, millions of people, including children, who
or
where
was
Laugh
took
“heckling,”
issue
show
“Fifty
n*****! He’s a n*****! A n*****, look, there’s a n*****!” and
La Voz january 2007
Think something needs to be discussed? e-mail us at lavozsu@gmail.com
Source: http://www.tmz.com/2006/11/20/kramers-racist-tirade-caught-on-tape/260
agrees
to
beliefs
the
known as comic relief. Every race has some dirt under
a
to
side.
en el mundo
Recent Events in
Oaxaca, México
unedited
Jack Corbett
A
s I prepare this in the early morning hours
a
of November 1st I am struck by the extent
Section 22, the Oaxaca
to which the events of the last ten days illuminate the
unit of the national
complexities and contradictions of the last few months
teachers union, and the
in Oaxaca. One of the advantages of being on the scene
APPO, the coalition
here, despite the confusion generated by the “fog of war,”
of organization and
is that we have access to information obviously not as
groups
accessible to those of you outside. What I offer is not so
come together to help
much a chronology but a set of reflections rooted in that
topple the governor.
information in ways which I hope capture how some of
In addition Section 22
those complexities and contradictions interact to shape what
was increasingly divided between those teachers who were
is happening in Oaxaca.
committed to solidarity with the APPO and those concerned
If we back up ten days the situation looks like the
following:
wedge
between
which
had
...the gunmen who killed
the cameraman and a
second person were
tentatively identified as
a city council member, a
city employee, and two
police officers...
about the effects of the prolonged strike on the educational
system. A special commission dispatched by the Mexican
The movement to force governor Ulises Ruiz from
Senate to determine whether the state´s governance system
office, which emerged after he sent a force of police to displace
had broken down reported it was tattered but still operating
striking teachers from their sit-in in the center of the city,
to some degree, and PRI governors across the country
seemed to be losing momentum. The federal government
expressed full support for Ulises Ruiz. He in turn insisted
had largely met the
he would never step down, and President Vicente Fox
original demands
continued his call for dialogue and negotiation.
of the strike and
many
On Thursday, October 25th, after several days of
teachers
extended internal debate and considerable controversy,
were willing to
Section 22 voted to return to work, and the union leadership
go back to work.
announced schools would begin opening on the 30th. By
The
federal
Friday morning many of the barricades which had impeded
concessions
the free flow of traffic had been removed, buses which had
appeared to drive
largely disappeared from city streets were running again,
continued on page 20
La Voz january 2007
13
política
P u e r t o Ric o A i r N a t i o n a l G u a r d
Hilda Rosa Martinez
T
of deaths due to the current war, second only to the Caucasian
deployed as a unit on September 8, 2006
population3. Fifty five Puerto Ricans, who call Puerto Rico
from their home base in San Juan, Puerto Rico for Bagram
their home of record (reside full time) have died in the war4.
Airfield, Afghanistan. This is the first time in its 55 year
Many others of Puerto Rican decent are not counted in the
history1. Although many members from the base have served
total of 55 but are within the 11.3% because they lived on
honorable to other parts of the world, this deployment was
the mainland.
the first time they deployed as a unit.
Let’s not forget that Puerto Ricans are United States
Did you know that the Island of Puerto
citizens; however, when they visit a recruiter on the Island,
Rico, a Commonwealth of the United States of America
they must pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude
has Army and Air National Guard Bases on the Island?
Battery (ASVAB), as well as an English proficiency exam.
They have served proudly since 1917 and continue to serve
If the recruit cannot speak or understand enough English,
with distinction. There have been four recipients of the
then they are required to attend and pass an intense English
Congressional Medal of Honor. In fact, the Puerto Rican
language course (either on the Island or Lackland Air Force
contribution to the U.S. military has not been a small one.
Base, Texas) before continuing the enlistment process.
There have been197,100 Puerto Ricans who have served as
Some reading this article may think, of course, a
combatants; of those, 6,220 have been wounded; and 1,225
recruit must be able to understand orders, especially in a
have been killed in the service of their country2.
Did you know these soldiers are fighting
for democracy? To allow citizens the right to decide
their future through a democratic system, yet they
do not have such rights? If the Puerto Rican soldiers
reside on the Island, they cannot vote in United States
national elections, which means, they cannot vote for
the President of the United States, the Commander in
war zone, but did you know
As of September 23,
2006, Latinos made
up 11.3% of deaths due
to the current war,
second only to the
Caucasian population.
Chief of the Armed Forces. They do not have a voice
on who is sending them to war.
As of September 23, 2006, Latinos made up 11.3%
La Voz january 2007
that Eskimos do not need to
speak or understand the English
language?
When Eskimos
attend basic training for the
Air Force at Lackland Air
Force Base, Texas, they have
their own interpreter. You may
question when the last time an
Eskimo from Alaska went to war was,but it was not too long
ago.
Endnotes: 1 www.afa.mil 2 www.veteransforpr.com 3www.icasualties.org 4 www.npr.org 5 www.indianz.com
he Puerto Rican Air National Guard members
in
w a r z o ne
f o r f i rs t t i m e
Picutres courtesy of: http://www.stanford.edu/~jkay/graphics/flag.gif http://www.prsanj.ang.af.mil/
The first Inupiat Eskimo, Staff Sergeant Billy Brown
died on October 17, 2006 during pre-deployment training in
The last time you watched Good Morning America,
Southern Mississippi5. The exercises in Southern Mississippi
The Today show or the nightly news, did you hear about
give soldiers an opportunity to train in real world prior to
the deaths of Puerto Rican soldiers? Did you hear about
deploying directly to Iraqi. This was broadcast and listed
the send off they are receiving? Have you heard about the
on several websites soon after the soldier’s untimely death.
families left behind when their mother or father goes off to
Did you hear or read when the first Puerto Rican soldier was
defend the United States?
killed? How about the first female? Army Specialist, Lizbeth
The next time you think about Puerto Rico, take a
Robles died on March 1, 2005, from injuries sustained in
moment to remember those brave men and women who are
Bayji, Iraq. She was only 31 years old.
serving in the U.S. military and making the Island and the
La Voz january 2007
United States of America a better place for everyone.
“A U nique
B ilingual
F orce ”
15
comida
restaurant review
La Casa
Del Té
Max Patino
G
rowing up in Queens, N.Y., I was always
the word ambiance is too pretentious to describe this place.
a train ride away from some of the most
The main dining area is off to the right hand side,
eclectic, scrumptious varieties of Latin cuisine. Places like
with great light in the main area and a collection of Latin
Tierras Colombianas, Churrasqueria Plataforma or Chivito
artifacts that represent different nations of latinoamerica.
de Oro, were personal invitations to embrace the Latino
Yet, don’t get it mistaken. This woman and cuisine were
culture outside of my Argentinean heritage, through one of
cien por cien Dominicano.
the most personal forms of expression -food.
Doña Aida showed us a one page menu that had a
variety of appetizers, entrees and beverages. I started off
headed out to enjoy an early dinner at La Casa Del Te. I
with a shot of café cubano, which wasn’t the hot traditional
called early in the day to find out time and specials and was
eye-opener that I was used to, but it was good to see her use
greeted by a sweet voice reminiscent of home. “Cerramos
some good ol’ Bustelo. I had the moro with pollo guisado,
a las seis, Señor, pero me llama un poquito antes de venir y
a morir soñando, empanadas, maduros, a small sancocho
le comienzo a preparar la cena. Nuestros especiales hoy son
and a piece of Dominican cake for dessert (I love this job!).
Sancocho y pollo guisado”. I flashbacked to my high school
Even though they lacked some of the traditional spices that
days, when I would call home to let my mom know I was on
I’m used to, the dishes were uniformly delicious, with a
my way from school but secretly trying to find out what she
focus on flavor and texture combinations that are designed
was cooking that night.
to satisfy rather than titillate. The moro with the chicken and
La Casa Del Te is of humble settings without any
of the pretentiousness of a downtown eatery. As a matter
side of garlic sauce was the best.
I left satisfied. I had enjoyed a real good
of fact, I had to ride a few times down the block to find
meal. Excellent in the standards of upstate New York. I will
the location since it blended well with the dreary landscape
definitely come back. If not for the sancocho, then to have
of certain areas of the West Side of Syracuse. When you
another pleasant conversation with Doña Aida.
stepped through the door, the dreariness disappears, and
you are welcomed by a very spacious, clean and well-lit
establishment.
The very first thing I saw was Doña Aida, who
greeted me with a big smile. We were the only customers
in the place, and it gave me a good opportunity to be picky
with my selection and to take in the ambiance. Maybe even
La Voz january 2007
La Casa Del Té
803 South West Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
Phone: (315) 471-9982
Picture courtesy of: http://www.java-n-jazz.com/images/tealeaves.gif
So, it was with some anticipation that I recently
receta
Tres Leches
Torta
Hilda Rosa Martinez
Ingredientes:
5 eggs
1 cup white sugar
1 cup self-rising flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
http://icuban.com/food/images/tres_leches.jpg
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 egg whites
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Procedimiento:
1. Grease and flour a 8 x 12 inch pan. Preheat the oven
to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Separate 5 eggs, and beat the egg whites in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup sugar slowly
to the egg whites, beating constantly. Add the yolks one by one, beating well after each
addition. Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla. Sift the flour, and stir it into the egg mixture. Pour
the batter into the prepared pan. Bake the cake for 20 minutes, or until done. Cool.
3. Blend the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, milk, and 1 tablespoon vanilla.
Pour this syrup over the cooled cake.
4. To make Meringue Frosting: Beat 3 egg whites to soft peaks. Gradually add 1 cup sugar,
and beat until stiff peaks form. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla. Frost the cake.
I started making this cake before my daughter was born. A friend, Teresa from
Arizona (who is also Mexicana), shared the receta with me. I have changed the recipe a
bit, para darlo mas sabor.
Esta receta is very simple, and you will find yourself wanting to make it throughout
the year, once you taste que delicioso es.
On the evening of January 5th, my daugther, Isabella Grace, and I spend time
together making and decorating the torta. On the sixth, we serve it to family and friends
quien celebran La Día de los Reyes con nosotros.
Enjoy!!!
Have a favorite recipe? favorite local restaurant? Tell us about it! e-mail it to lavozsu@gmail.com
La Voz january 2007
17
nuestro talento
Eyes like
México
Celina Martinez
H
e asks his mother to open the picture of
took the tears out of me,” he said. It’s been twelve years
me on the computer. When I disappear, he
since the red-faced man left. The mariachi was handsome
asks, “where’d she go?” until they find me again. He sees
the way only a Mexican man can be. Brown, perfect skin
something big in me, something that repeats as often as he
and a way about him that reminded me of something I
reinvents my name according to what he can mumble.
never had, the same something I cry about when I realize
His eyes remind me of the smell of
ground coffee, the kind my grandmother would boil with
no country is home.
The little boy was hungry when the
cinnamon and give me in a red clay mug when I visited her
food came and we watched the steam rise off the plates
in Tijuana. Like the roosters outside my grandmother’s
we were warned were too hot to touch. He tried to eat it
house, he sings in the morning and gets up on a chair to
anyway and howled when it burned his tongue. He took
watch his father board the bus that takes him to work. He
the desperation in long swallows, lips trembling like the
imitates his mother’s yoga poses. He loves horses and
violins of Mexico Lindo y Querido which the mariachis
calls everything he likes “doggies.” He doesn’t care about
played at the table behind him. His yells ran parallel and
falling when he climbs on furniture and jumps.
were hidden by the song, becoming gritos, the searing joy
So far his parents know he’s demanding—
although he speaks his own language, I’m able to make
or despair that rips from the pits of drunken mens’ souls.
I waited for the mariachis to move to our
out the word “go” which means get out of the car. We
table but they never came. They took pictures with the
sat in the back seat when dusk fell on us like a memory
red-faced man and his wife, with the waiters, and then
from my childhood: a glimpse of a piñata hanging in a
took a break. I settled for this serenade, a little boy, the
courtyard in Rosarito, and the walls and colors of a church
new song he learns from smashing into walls, or better
exploded something that priest repeated to me, something
yet, from smashing into the same wall over and over, the
I could never remember until the end of the day finds the
song he’ll remember one day when he hears mariachis
right pitch of light to take me back.
sing, someday after learning who he is and he forgets he
There was a mariachi band at the
restaurant that night, and a booster chair for him. There
was a mariachi singer who sang to a Mexican man at the
other table who cried because he remembered his country.
The man’s face was red, like he’d been drinking. “You
La Voz january 2007
liked dogs and was the boy who used to jump.
The mariachi was handsome
the way only a Mexican
man can be.
No Ordinary
Love Poem
Robert de Leon
This isn’t an ordinary love poem...
you know the type where I say I’ll never leave and you think it’s so sweet
Cause’ honestly I don’t need words that rhyme or better yet define
what my heart and mind has already co-signed
That naturally you’re apart of I, so that means mentally we are intertwined..and
I try to describe what our love symbolize...
its like gravity is being defied from being up so high
Sometimes it even gets hard to comprehend..
I praise you
your beauty that transcends deeper than your skin
so much
and I’ll repeat again...
you’ve
This isn’t an ordinary love poem...
become my
but rather a composition of my emotions description
religion...
Living off your words so I use your verbs as my prescription
Legendary and famous like the lands of the Egyptians
No type of gimic, so maybe I should mention....
I praise you so much you’ve become my religion
but in case you’re not listening
This isnt an ordinary love poem,
Don’t have to call you baby or say you drive me crazy
B/c that statement doesnt come close to resemble
the picture your love is painting
An intellect that is so profound...
Making me smile like a child on a marry-go-round
and thats even when your voice hasn’t made a sound
...your beauty
Keeping me sane through the rain of a hurricane
that transcends
Help alleviate the pain that aches my brain
deeper than your
but the title still remains the same
skin...
This isn’t an ordinary love poem
Just letting you know that what you give is so complex
and there could never be a true meaning of what your love represents
but I know that everytime we converse it resurrects....
Forming a higher degree...
giving me a better reason to fold my hands as I get down on my knees
but please know indeed
This isn’t an ordinary love poem
Just an extended verbalization of
I...Love...You
Show us what you got! e-mail submissions to lavozsu@gmail.com
La Voz january 2007
19
El Zorro continued from page 8
twist and will leave you wanting more Zorro.
This novel is now available and it can be read
in both English and Spanish. It has had so much success
be making a telenovela starring Christian Meier based on
this novel. The telenovela is scheduled to premiere in early
2007.
that Telemundo, in collaboration with Sony pictures, will
Recent Events in Oaxaca continued from page 13
and traffic police appeared on some corners for the first
these represented local actions by local bands acting on
time in months. As I headed to the library that morning
local matters without regard for the larger picture. Another
there was a clear sense people were breathing easier. But
is that the attacks were arranged by someone opposed to the
as I returned three hours later all had changed. The traffic
governor who sought to embarrass him by underscoring his
police had disappeared, a number of streets were blocked
lack of control. A third explanation is that the governor’s
by commandeered buses, and the streets were emptying. By
enthusiasm for aggressive intimidation, a hallmark of his
late afternoon word had spread of assaults on five APPO
rule since taking power in December, 2004, led him to think
barricades around the city by groups with firearms, assaults
that the events earlier in the week would permit him to strike
which left three people including an American cameraman
at his tormentors.
dead and perhaps as many as a dozen injured. While in the
Whatever the reason the response was not long in
preceding weeks several teachers and APPO sympathizers
coming. Friday evening President Fox met with his advisors
had been shot by gunmen the cases seemed almost random
and some members of the Cabinet, and early on Saturday
whereas Friday´s events seemed like a coordinated effort.
the government announced the dispatch of 4000 Federal
The Oaxaca state prosecutor portrayed the assaults as angry
Preventive Police (a special force for problems beyond
citizens seeking to hasten the removal of barricades and
the capacity of any state), marines, and highway patrol
warned of danger to Oaxaca from urban guerrillas. By Friday
officers to Oaxaca. By noon on Saturday an air bridge of
evening, however, the gunmen who killed the cameraman
PFP transports were ferrying personnel and equipment
and a second person were tentatively identified as a city
from Mexico City, temporarily closing the Oaxaca airport.
council member, a city employee, and two police officers
The APPO called for volunteers to rebuild and strengthen
dressed in plain clothes from Santa Lucia del Camino, an
barricades, and most others left the streets. In the evening
adjacent community.
the government called on the APPO to withdraw, the APPO
At this point it is difficult to explain WHY, when
refused to abandon the center of the city, and there was an
events over the previous several days seemed to be favoring
announcement the PFP would move on the city center at 10
Ulises Ruiz´ hold on his office, attacks would take place
pm.
which could jeopardize his gains. One explanation is that
La Voz january 2007
But by the next morning none had arrived and
hopes rose negotiations would avoid trouble. In some parts
resistance, casualties, and nationwide TV coverage prompted
of the city people began to circulate and feel relieved. But by
some political reassessment by the Mexican Congress. Most
early afternoon large contingents of helmeted PFP officers
of the Chamber of Deputies voted to ask Governor Ortiz
with heavy shields, supported by water cannon and heavy
to resign or at least ask for a leave of absence, the media
equipment to demolish barricades, moved toward the city
criticized him for wanting to hang on to a governorship
center. A large crowd turned out to block the way but was
which operated from a Mexico City hotel rather that a state
unsuccessful. At the same time similar units advanced from
capital, and even the head of the PRI block in the Chamber
the northwest and east. The unit moving from the northwest
of Deputies suggested the governor should examine his
toward the Tecnologico (engineering university) met serious
conscience to decide whether he could govern effectively.
resistance in the form of rock throwers, Molotov cocktails,
Not only did the governor reject such exhortations but in a
barricades of burning vehicles, and other barriers. During
complaint to the Mexican Supreme Court he challenged the
this fighting a tear gas canister struck and killed a 15-year-
right of the Chamber to pass such resolutions. Tuesday there
old boy. Several dozen people, including a number of PFP
were some expressions of support for him, even in Oaxaca
officers were hurt and perhaps as many as fifty people
where there was a march in his favor.
arrested. One could see black smoke rising from several
While there were calls for the PFP to stay there
points around the city. At one point the PFP had corralled
were also demands they leave as soon as possible. Indeed
many APPO supporters in the city square but these withdrew
it is entirely possible some may stay for month, in part as a
to the university. Yet in other parts of the city life went on as
check on abuses by local officers.
usual, stores were open, and traffic moved freely.
So at last we arrive to the complexities and
So by Sunday evening the PFP controlled the
contradictions. How is it that a state so long under the
center of the city and public buildings in the area, the APPO
firm domination of the PRI has massively, though far from
resistance had been pushed back to the university and to
unanimously, rejected a PRI governor? This is hardly the
the periphery, and the worst fears of a bloodbath had not
product of the teachers strike. In part it reflects a long
materialized. Yet there was plenty of margin for error or
history of arbitrary and abusive manipulation of power
miscalculation. Furthermore, popular distrust of the PFP was
in the interests of a network of regional and sectoral
reinforced by discovery Monday morning that businesses in
interests. Jose Murat, the previous governor, was also
the city square which had endured five months of APPO
arbitrary but was more effective in managing that style via
sit-ins without a robbery had been looted once the police
a combination of populism, political theatre, and careful
had taken control. While the center was calm Monday
cultivation of alliances with a wide range of interests. But
confrontations continued elsewhere, and even Tuesday
Ruiz, who came to power in 2004 via a disputed election,
evening the PFP could not claim complete control although
from the start favored a combination of repression and
actual fighting appeared to have ceased.
intimidation, jailing opponents and otherwise pressing his
By Monday President Fox was praising the PFP
power. He initiated an array of public works in the city of
for restoring peace and order in Oaxaca. But the serious
Oaxaca, including remodeling of the central square, without
La Voz january 2007
21
discussion in circumstances fostering the belief these were
collective functioning from the bottom up rather a standard
covers for channeling funds into the presidential campaign
Mexican top-down arrangement. Even Section 22 is far more
of PRI candidate Roberto Madrazo. The governor’s claim
democratic and oriented toward group decision-making than
he would deliver a million Oaxacan votes for Madrazo
the rest of the national teachers union. So we have another
reminded people of his assumption Oaxaca is his sandbox.
contradiction, in that those who appear to be most in need of
Presumably Oaxacans, living in one of the poorest
satisfying material needs in practice are heavily invested in
states in Mexico, with grievous deficiencies in public
promoting changes in the political process far beyond those
services and employment, long subject to the will of political
acceptable to the dominant ruling classes.
bosses, and leaving the state in growing numbers to search
for opportunities elsewhere in Mexico or the U.S., would put
The struggle continues. 
political protest toward the bottom of their “to do” list. Yet
the breadth and depth of political unrest, and the willingness
to press for new political arrangements built on traditional
notions of community autonomy and local organization,
make clear the extent to which many Oaxacans distrust
the existing political arrangements. For example, President
Fox has repeatedly called for negotiation and dialogue, a
process which envisions group leaders sitting around a table
working out a deal. But the APPO is, in certain respects, a
Jack Corbett is an associate professor in the
Hatfield School of Government at Portland
State University.
He is currently in Oaxaca and will be there
until June 2007.
Keep a look out for a follow up...
La Voz wants YOU!!
Writers
Designers
Poets
Photographers...
you name it, we have a job for YOU!!!
We want to know what you think!! e-mail us at lavozsu@gmail.com
La Voz january 2007
La L.U.C.H.A. e-board with comedian Mike Robles at Café con Leche
Back row: Andy Gutierrez, Co-Education chair; Lucio Riojas, Administrative Chair and Hisotrian;
Anthony Otero, Faculty Advisor; comedian Mike Robles; Angel Rosado, Public Relations Chair.
Front row: Lorraine Tristan, Editor of La Voz; Maryann Acosta; Community Service Chair, Laura
Maida, Co-cultural Chair; Melissa Escaño, Co-Cultural Chair; Ana Vallecillo, Finance Chair; Kirssy
Gonzalez, Co-Education Chair
Contact us at:
Kirssy A. Gonzalez kagonzal@syr.edu
Andy Gutierrez agutierr@syr.edu
Laura E. Maida lemaida@syr.edu
Melissa M. Escaño mmescano@syr.edu
Ana V. Vallecillo avvallec@syr.edu
Lucio Rojas lrojas@syr.edu
Maryann Acosta macost01@syr.edu
Angel R. Rosado arrosado@syr.edu
Lorraine Tristan altrista@syr.edu
Anthony Otero aotero@syr.edu
La Voz january 2007
or visit us at our website:
http://students.syr.edu/lalucha
23