Why Spanish People Don't Appreciate Mexican Culture More?

While walking down the streets of Madrid, you might often bump into immigrants from Colombia, Bolivia, or Argentina but rarely find Mexican faces. This poses the question: why don't Spanish people appreciate Mexican culture more?

Lack of Exposure

One primary reason behind this phenomenon is the lack of exposure. Mexico has a rich and influential cultural presence in Spain, but due to the higher number of immigrants from other Latin American countries such as Colombia, Bolivia, and Argentina, their cultural influence is more pronounced. Spanish citizens are more frequently exposed to the cultures of these neighboring nations, overshadowing their appreciation for Mexican culture.

Different Cultural Presences

Spanish people do appreciate Mexican culture, but often, it is overshadowed by the rich cultural presence of other Latin American nations. For example, there are more Colombian and Peruvian performers, restaurants, and cultural events in Spain compared to Mexican ones. This is partly because more Mexicans emigrate to the United States rather than Spain. Consequently, the presence of Mexican culture in Spanish society is not as prevalent.

Cultural Focus and Media Representation

Another factor is the focus on different aspects of Mexican culture that may not be widely appreciated by the general public. While some excellent Mexican TV series and literature are available, there is less emphasis on the more traditional and indigenous aspects of Mexican culture. This focus on more modern, urban, or pop culture aspects might not resonate with the broader Spanish population, which still retains a strong connection to its own cultural heritage.

Attitude and Perception

The perception of certain segments of Mexican culture, particularly those that are more popularized or associated with urban or marginal areas, can sometimes lead to a less favorable attitude among the Spanish population. This includes the influence of American media on Mexican culture, which might not always align with traditional Spanish values or preferences. The cynicism surrounding these elements can cause a certain degree of disdain or indifference among the local population.

Emerging Interest

However, despite these challenges, there is a growing interest in Mexican culture in Spain. Spanish people are increasingly becoming more aware of the depth and richness of Mexican traditions, music, cuisine, and art. Efforts to promote more traditional and indigenous Mexican culture through educational programs, cultural events, and local festivals are gradually increasing the appreciation for Mexican culture among the Spanish population.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the current lack of broader appreciation for Mexican culture in Spain can be attributed to a combination of cultural immersion, media representation, and the focus on different aspects of Mexican culture. However, as awareness and understanding grow, the future holds potential for increased appreciation and recognition of Mexican culture in Spanish society.