The Fiesta Culture

The Fiesta Culture takes a critical look at the "Salsafication" of America from the Hispanic fiesta elements of food, music and dance. Whether it's enjoying spicy Mexican food or learning hot Latin dances, millions of non-Hispanic Americans are Livin' La Vida Loca (or trying to).

But beyond this happy interpretation of Hispanic influence in America are troubling social and political implications and impacts. For one thing, the contemporary celebration of Hispanics in American popular culture is really just a polished-up, positive spin on long-standing stereotypes of Hispanics-As-The-Fiesta-People. And it forces us to face a central question about America's future: Do we really want to keep trivializing the nation's largest and fastest-growing minority instead of speeding their full participation in American life?

The Fiesta Culture examines the vital issues raised by America's "Salsafication" for Hispanic Americans and, indeed, for all Americans.