2008 Woodie Awards
I know that north of the border the Canadians have the Canadian Football League (CFL), but who knew that south of the border – in a land where soccer, or futbol, reigns supreme – fans get just as riled up over a pigskin game?
An article on the NFL in Mexico makes some interesting observations on the differences in popular consumption (think hotdogs versus tacos) which, when juxtaposed with the importation of America’s biggest sport, present a picture of a land that maintains a distinct heritage and yet, seems poised to accept much of what western democratic culture has created.
As paradoxical as it may sound, similar rhetoric was used almost six years ago when the Partido Acción Nacional (PAN) secured the presidency thus terminating over 70 years of Partido Revolucionario Institucional (PRI) rule.
It seems Mexico is about to make history again, in a way that should please most Americans and in particular the Bush administration. Why? Because López Obrador, the former mayor of Mexico City, and leftist Partido de la Revolución Democrática (PRD) candidate is the favorite to win in the upcoming election.
Leftist + Bush administration = Happy?
Aside from the fact that Obrador is hardly an ideologue, the Bush administration, which constantly espouses the virtue of true democratic governments, should be ecstatic over the dramatic change that has occurred in a political system that was considered by many to be a joke given its rampant corruption.
Not only have the Mexican people said “no” to hegemonic PRI rule, but they now appear ready for yet another turnover in parties. Such change is a positive sign of democratic growth and maturity. After all, it is not enough that a state simply call itself a “democracy.” One of the best indicators of democratic health is frequent turnover because it provides evidence that the party machines are not wielding excessive power and that the populace is considering alternative platforms and policies.
While the Bush administration may view Vicente Fox and the right-wing PAN as more suitable allies for long-term US-Mexico relations, the Mexican people’s disapproval of Fox’s performance is indeed a strong indication that at least in some parts of the world, cultures are primed to embrace what are often considered “western” (and some believe Americanized) ideals.
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