Retablos of Mexican Migrants to the United States: A Window into Their Journeys, Hopes, and Faith

Miracles on the Border: Retablos of Mexican Migrants to the United States

by Jorge Durand

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	37255 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	216 pages

FREE

Retablos are small, often devotional paintings that depict a person's experience or a miracle that they have witnessed. In the context of Mexican migration to the United States, retablos offer a unique and deeply personal glimpse into the journeys, hopes, and faith of these migrants.

Retablos have a long history in Mexico, dating back to the colonial period. They were originally used as a form of ex-voto, or offering, to a saint or the Virgin Mary in gratitude for a miracle or favor received. Over time, retablos have also become a popular form of folk art, and are often sold in markets and tourist shops.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in retablos as a way to document and understand the experiences of Mexican migrants to the United States. Retablos offer a unique perspective on the challenges, dangers, and triumphs that migrants face on their journeys. They also provide insights into the migrants' hopes and dreams for a better life in the United States.

The History of Retablos of Mexican Migrants

The tradition of retablos among Mexican migrants to the United States began in the early 20th century. As Mexicans began to migrate to the United States in search of work, they brought their cultural traditions with them, including the tradition of retablos.

Early retablos of Mexican migrants often depicted scenes of migrants crossing the border into the United States. These retablos often showed the migrants being guided by angels or saints. In some cases, the retablos also depicted the migrants being reunited with their families in the United States.

Over time, the themes depicted in retablos of Mexican migrants have become more diverse. Today, retablos depict a wide range of experiences, including the migrants' struggles to find work, housing, and education in the United States. They also depict the migrants' hopes and dreams for a better life in their new country.

The Significance of Retablos of Mexican Migrants

Retablos of Mexican migrants are significant for a number of reasons. First, they offer a unique and deeply personal glimpse into the experiences of these migrants. Retablos provide insights into the migrants' hopes, fears, and struggles. They also document the migrants' journeys and the challenges they face along the way.

Second, retablos of Mexican migrants are a valuable historical record. They provide a visual record of the experiences of Mexican migrants over time. Retablos can help us to understand the challenges that migrants have faced, as well as the hopes and dreams that have motivated them.

Third, retablos of Mexican migrants are a form of art. They are often beautifully painted and depict a wide range of scenes and subjects. Retablos can be appreciated for their artistic value, as well as for their historical and cultural significance.

The Themes Depicted in Retablos of Mexican Migrants

The themes depicted in retablos of Mexican migrants vary widely. However, some of the most common themes include:

* The journey: Retablos often depict the migrants' journey to the United States. These retablos may show the migrants crossing the border on foot, by car, or by train. They may also depict the migrants being detained or deported. * The struggle: Retablos often depict the struggles that migrants face in the United States. These retablos may show the migrants working in low-wage jobs, living in poverty, or being discriminated against. * The hope: Retablos often depict the migrants' hopes for a better life in the United States. These retablos may show the migrants reunited with their families, finding success in their new country, or achieving their dreams. * The faith: Retablos often depict the migrants' faith in God. These retablos may show the migrants praying to saints or the Virgin Mary, or being protected by angels.

Retablos of Mexican migrants to the United States are a unique and valuable window into the experiences, hopes, and faith

Miracles on the Border: Retablos of Mexican Migrants to the United States

by Jorge Durand

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	37255 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	216 pages

FREE