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November 2, 2007
Public Press Release
On October 25th, 2007 a hoax website, made to look like CNN, falsely reported that MEChA claimed responsibility for setting the wildfires that have recently devastated southern California. MEChA would like to make clear that our organization had no part in starting these fires. We condemn the slanderous act committed by those who created the website, and our condolences are with those who have been affected by the wildfires.
As MEChA we feel that the actions of those individuals who created the website are not to be taken lightly, and view this incident as yet another malicious attack on our community and those who fight for social justice. Their actions have not only caused us to receive large amounts of hate mail, but have also undermined the hard work and efforts of those investigating the true cause(s) of the fires. In addition, these acts have created an atmosphere of animosity towards the Chicana/o Latina/o community at large and the community as a whole has felt the negative consequences. We are thankful to those who helped to expose the hoax as it could have led to violence against members of our community.
Currently, MEChA is working in collaboration with other social justice organizations and community members to build solidarity. Our community is tired of the passive responses to discriminatory and oppressive acts and they stand beside us as we look into pursuing further legal action.
Founded in 1969, Movimiento Estudiantil Chicana/o de Aztlán (MEChA) is a student organization that promotes higher education, cultura, and historia. MEChA was founded on the principles of self-determination for the advancement of our people. We believe that political involvement and education is the avenue for change in our community. MEChA has played an important role in the creation and implementation of Chicana/o Studies and support services programs on campuses and communities throughout the country.
Elizabeth Chavez NMCC Co-Chair David Partida NMCC Co-Chair
