Los Angeles, Alta California
June 19, 2003
Councilman Richard Nichols
District #6
3300 Newport Boulevard
Newport Beach, California 92663
Dear Councilman Richard Nichols:
I just read the June 18 news article in the "Daily Pilot" which quotes you as saying that you oppose improvements to Corona del Mar State Beach because "Mexicans" dominate the area. The article written by June Casagrande of the Los Angeles Times also quotes you as saying that you oppose adding more grassy areas to the state park because "with grass we usually get Mexicans coming in there early in the morning and they claim it as theirs and it becomes their personal, private grounds all day." Because of your comments, I understand that you are now being called a "racist" and a "bigot". In addition, some of your colleagues are asking you to step down as an elected public official.
Coincidentally, I was at Corona del Mar State Beach for the first time on a Saturday about three weeks ago. I live in the Los Angeles area but frequently visit Newport's Fashion Island as well as Balboa Island. On that Saturday I decided to visit the park after it was pointed out by the captain of a Newport harbor cruise out of the Balboa Pavilion. To tell you the truth, I was very surprised and happy to see so many of my Mexican "compatriots" at the west end of Corona del Mar State Beach. Over the years I have learned that Corona del Mar and Newport Beach are predominantly "White" affluent communities and was very intrigued at the fact that there were so many Mexican families enjoying this part of the secluded and majestic state park along the east jetty of the entrance to Newport Bay.
As I walked through the area where all the "Mexicans" hang out, I felt like I was intruding in their "space" even though I am Mexican myself. The reason was the very crowded conditions and the fact that every available space in that part of the park was already taken. Everyone was "dominating", as you say, the little space they had. Perhaps improving the park by providing more grassy areas where these families can spread out is the solution.
As you are probably aware, there are very few Mexican families in Orange County that own homes in expensive beach cities such as Newport Beach and the only way for these families to enjoy the ocean is to go to public state beaches such as Corona del Mar State Beach. The fact that the park is located in the City of Newport Beach, does not make it the "exclusive property" of the residents of the city. Most of these families live in inland crowded cities such as Santa Ana. In addition, many of these families live in crowded apartments or in single family housing often shared by two or even three families. They look forward to the weekends when they can leave their crowded cities, homes and apartments and head for the beach where they can enjoy a sunny day. The reason why "these Mexicans get up early in the morning to claim a space", as you say, points precisely to the problem you should address. There is not enough grassy areas in the park to meet the demand.
Let me remind you that all the land where Newport Beach is situated was once owned by Mexicans. The Spanish language name "Corona del Mar" means "The Crown of the Sea". This was prior to "Los Ranchos" being confiscated by invading English speaking "Whites" like you. The confiscation of all "Los Ranchos" was done unethically and resulted in "Whites" hoarding the best land along the beaches.
Also, I would like to remind you that yesterday the U.S. Census Bureau declared that Latinos are now the largest minority in the country. Mexicans will soon be the majority here in Alta California. My advise to you and other politicians is "Get used to it!" You will be seeing more and more Mexicans at Corona del Mar State Beach and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it except embrace it and live with it.
I have sent a copy of this letter to all your colleagues on the Newport Beach City Council and others who should know where you stand on "the Mexicans". Personally, I have to say that Newport Beach is a fine city. I and my family enjoy shopping at Fashion Island and dining at the many excellent restaurants there. Also, a trip on the Balboa Ferry is always enjoyable, something I recommend to all our Mexican readers of La Voz de Aztlan.
Respectfully,
Hector Carreon
Publisher
La Voz de Aztlan
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