According to the new Study in the States Mapping SEVIS by the Numbers, there are more than 21,000 Mexican F and M students studying in the United States. Mexico is also one of the top ten countries that sends students to study in the United States, according to the latest quarterly SEVIS by the Numbers report. There is nearly an equal number of female and male Mexican international students in the United States and most Mexican students work towards a bachelor’s degree or enroll in a language program in the United States. Today, we help them celebrate an unlikely military victory in their nation’s history. 

 

Often mistaken for Mexican Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo actually commemorates the Mexican army’s defeat of the French during the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. 

 

More than 150 years later, people throughout the Americas still honor this legendary battle. In Mexico, most of the celebratory events are in the Puebla state, where the battle took place, and honor the Mexican military. 

 

However, in the United States the holiday has largely evolved into a universal celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, with many areas of the country hosting parades and parties that include mariachi music, Mexican folk dancing and traditional Mexican foods. 

 

Are you a Mexican F or M student studying in the United States? Share with us how you celebrate your country’s rich culture and history using #CincoDeMayo and #intlstudents.