Santa Ana Barrios

Santa Ana, California is widely recognized by its numerous Latino population. Of this Latino population, the large majority is of Mexican descent. The city's overall ethnic makeup is in fact diverse and there is diversity within its Mexican American population. In the case of Mexican Americans, there are a large number of first generation Mexican Americans, that is, migrant residents. After this group come their descendants and subsequent generation levels.

Latinos live throughout the city.There are many activities throughout the year that celebrate this culture. For example on September 15, Mexico's Independence Day , downtown Santa Ana is transformed into a delightful "Festival of the Americas" with many Mexican traditions taking place including mariachi bands and folklorico dancers. There is a huge sense of culture within the Santa Ana community. Also, "Voice of the People" speeches are given on Cesar Chavez Day in honor of his hard work and dedication to Latino rights.

Another reconition of the Latino presence in Santa Ana is the school districts's spanish program K-5.Because of the high immigrant iliteracy rate in Santa Ana, many elementary schools also offer free english courses to those unable to attened school because of thier age or language barriers.