Editorial:

The United States Navy honored the legacy of César Chávz by naming the last in the line of 14 resupply ships after the Chicano icon. As Navy Secretary Ray Mabus stated – the labor leader should be praised for his service to the military and country.

    This was an honor well deserved and at the same time recognized the contributions of the NASSCO employees for whom a majority are Hispanic and the community of Barrio Logan where the ship yard is located.

    Normally this would have been a grand fiesta for all to enjoy in the recognition of Chávez. That was until Congressman Duncan Hunter decided to pander to the conservative/right wing segment of his district.

    Speak out against the naming of the naval ship, Hunter stated that Chávez did not deserve the recognition. As with most racist statements Hunter had no basis or rational for his charges than other to say that there were others who were more worthy.

    Hunter may not have liked what Chavez stood for or represented, but he should have keep his mouth shut on this. All he did was demonstrate his ignorance and the dichotomy that the Republican Party faces with the growth of the Hispanic community. On the one hand conservative Republicans cater and pander to the right wing minority of their Party and at the same time they need to attract Hispanic voters for the sake of their future. With comments coming from Republicans like Hunter it only goes to show, once again, that Republicans have a long way to go in winning over the Hispanic vote.

    Unfortunately for Hunter his opinion did not mean much on this occasion and the 14th resupply vessel was officially named the “César Chávez.” Sí Se Puede!