My Step Mom and her family are Mexican and they are probably the most unhealthy eaters I have ever seen, and I'm talking about Mexican food. It is some of the worst! They use lard in about everything...also not forgetting Cow Stomach Soup aka Menudo, pigs feet in beans, liver, etc. etc. I don't think this ad will really work considering they don't have a nutritious diet in the first place...

Posted by: Kristen | August 12, 2008 08:53 AM

The fence itself actually harms animals because it prevents wildlife from migrating to find food, which will kill thousands of animals in the long run.

Posted by: Maya, CVT | August 12, 2008 09:55 AM

Kristen: LOL--I was actually thinking the same thing about the typical Mexican diet. I live in Las Vegas, which has a strong Mexican influence, and good luck finding anything healthy to eat at a restaurant!! I was in Mexico, itself, too long ago and thought exactly the same thing about their diet being horrible. Not worse than that of the US, of course, but definitely not better.

Posted by: Antigone1000 | August 12, 2008 11:50 AM

Let's not forget about the fact that many people who cross the border will eventually be exploited by factory farm- and slaughterhouse-workers, and for very little pay.

I do agree with the fences keeping wildlife from migrating to and fro. It’s not fair to them. I personally think it’s obnoxious to put up fences to divide up the land that never belonged to us in the first place. I believe in the native saying that says we don’t own the land, we’re borrowing it for out children. I also believe that the land belongs to nature and should not have been infested by human greed. Living in harmony with nature (and each other) should be our goal.

Posted by: Eric Silberstein | August 12, 2008 12:50 PM

PETA knows the fence is a wildlife disaster, but this is a good idea. The incidence of diabetes and obesity in people coming into the US from So. America skyrockets when they start eating fast food and ribs and what-have-you. In my home, beans and rice was the staple. The beans were not cooked in lard but in water! And we had fresh fruits every day, not fruit tarts in a refined flour greasy casing. Our corn was ground fresh. Meat was like a condiment, not a main course. Mortality drops like a stone when you move from Mexico, especially from the countryside, to a US city.

Posted by: Ricardo Guarez | August 12, 2008 12:56 PM

We need that fence! It is not a advertising billboard.

Posted by: Kurt K | August 12, 2008 01:25 PM

PeTA you are always a suprise and that is one reason I adore you.

Thank you for the cute sign...it's a nice chuckle on such a serious issue. Made me smile. :)

Let's not forget...the taxpayers would have to pay for all the wonderful diseases these people get to inherit for us.

Posted by: Soliel | August 12, 2008 02:12 PM

Good points, Eric. Many people coming in are forced to take jobs that the rest of us would never do—like slaving away in a slaughterhouse, which has an extremely high rate of injury. That too is all part of the elaborate veil which allows us to pretend our meat just magically appears in the grocery store, and nobody is the worst for it.

Posted by: Mike Quinoa | August 12, 2008 04:52 PM

Wow. I don't see how such a positive ad could elicit such negative responses. We are not discussing the dietary habits of Mexican folk, but advocating for animal welfare and public health.

Posted by: Mayra Perez | August 12, 2008 09:35 PM

I want to share some first hand Mexican knowledge. Mexicans at home do have healthy diets. We "yes me" mostly eat, beans, rice, corn, tortillas, and many other healthy foods. You guys are thinking of commercial foods. But the people that live in ranches and little villages hardly ever eat bad stuff. Yes, they use oil and some people still use lard, but they grow most of the food they eat. Life is a lot different in the non-city villages and ranches. I am Mexican and I have been a vegetarian my entire life and as a child my parents never tried to impose meat on me.

Posted by: Eva | August 13, 2008 03:05 AM

Kristen & Antigone-although not all Mexicans have the best of diets we must realize that the basis if the Mexican diet does rely on grains and legumes(the post did say "staples" remember?). Most of the less economically advanced do thrive on that kind of diet whether you've seen it or not. As a Mexican myself and having relatives who live all over Mexico I can assure you that meat can be a treat for some and not a daily occurence. Either way I know plenty of vegans and vegetarians living in Mexico and this ad will give people something to talk about, specially on those extremely long and slow lines they make to get through immigration.

Posted by: Anali | August 13, 2008 06:31 AM

Anali: I'm sure there ARE vegans/vegetarians in Mexico, as there are in the US. I was just making the point that I find the MX diet to be no better than that of the US, especially since most of the beans in the "Mexican" restaurants in Las Vegas are not vegetarian, the rice is cooked in chicken broth, and one place puts cheese in its guacamole!!! With such a strong MX influence in NV, it would seem that we would have HEALTHIER food here, not less healthy, if they really ate so much better in MX.......

Posted by: Antigone1000 | August 13, 2008 09:37 AM

Me and my husband both being in our early fiftys although were not mexican can testify what I feel ameat diet has done to us Ive already had breast cancer five years ago doest run family but Ive foung out all the growth hormones used in animal meat is a large condribution to cancer many drs are admitting and researchers and now my husband has heart trouble due high cherostol in being big meat consumer and were considered the average American diet in middle America Im convinced the big meat and dairy industry doest want this information out We didnt know about the horrid factoy meat farms in our country and all its cruelty and the unhealthyness of it to But now were swithing to a mostly veg diet and wish we knew this years ago so to those of you w2ho getr this information save your health go veg for yourself and animals

Posted by: carol Joy | August 13, 2008 11:51 AM

Thank you, Eric.

And I should point out, most of the time when I eat vegan (as opposed to my more often vegetarian) I eat Mexican because I'm allergic to wheat.

Most vegan and vegetarian meals come with some wheat or gluten - bread, pasta, crackers, cookies, whatever. With the rise in food allergy incidences / diagnoses you're going to see more and more people unable to sustain a vegan diet.

Mexican food was a huge blessing for me because I could replace wheat with corn, quinona (okay, that's Peru, but still), rice etc. And by the way, I'm 112 pounds because of it. As others have pointed out, it's all in how the food is prepared.

Posted by: Maya, CVT | August 13, 2008 12:15 PM

I think we have to differentiate between regions.

Traditional Mexican diets are more healthy because of the focus on rice, beans, tortillas.

I would say, though, from accounts from my Latino friend, that when they come to the US, they adopt a high meat diet. My friend says carnitas is a huge hit as well as menudo and other meats. If they can afford it they eat it. Of course, there are always those who eschew such foods for reasons we do, like my sweet friend.

So I do think it's a good sign because of the diet change that happens to many once they get here.

Posted by: Soliel | August 13, 2008 12:51 PM

I think its a great warning to all who decide to cross the border. The american diet of fast food has affected many people including our children. The last thing we want is to spread this disease to other countries. I am Mexican, but know very well what is good for me and what is not. Now its up to educating all others to know the same...Even if they are coming from other countries and are use to other customs. Its NEVER too late to better yourself.

Posted by: dIANA | August 13, 2008 03:16 PM

I come from a very traditional Mexican family and yes i've seen the food my grandma makes and it can be very unhealthy, however, I think the idea of these ads is a great one. My grandma grew up in Mexico where they had to kill their animals in a very old fashioned way, there were no meat markets back then & some old school farmers still carry on this way. Everyone in most part needs to be educated whether it comes to eating right or protesting against animal cruelty and slaughter houses. As for you very naive and ignorant racist people, this is NOT a debate on putting the fence up, it's about protecting animals and warning immagrants about America's poor diet consumption!

Posted by: Roxxan | August 13, 2008 05:04 PM

When crossing the border, the last thing people think is about eating right. At that moment, they are hungry and thristy as hell. It is not the adecuate place to hang that ad. I think it is a waste of money. It should be placed somewhere else. Oh, and the vegano word should be replaced by vegetariano or no comas carne. Not everyone knows what vegan means. I just learned it a year ago. When people are crossing the border, a burger and a coke are an oasis in the desert.
I think the campaign should target people already living here. They are not going to change their decision of coming here because maybe they are going to gain pounds by eating burgers and chicken wings.

Posted by: Analisa Kuk | August 13, 2008 05:23 PM

Sé vegano.

Posted by: vegancoin | August 13, 2008 05:45 PM

Maya,

There our still many grains a vegan can eat and thrive on that are gluten-free: brown rice, quinoa, millet, amaranth, oats, buckwheat, etc.

I have a friend with a 4-year old autistic son, and an improvement in his condition was obtained by eliminating gluten-containing foods, and all dairy.

Posted by: Mike Quinoa | August 13, 2008 06:36 PM

Excellente !

Posted by: Sandy Gray | August 13, 2008 07:57 PM

Antigone1000, I live in Vegas, too. In fact, I set up a website to help vegetarians and vegans find food in Vegas (http://vegasveg.blogspot.com/). Indeed, there is a strong Mexican influence here, hence the name LAS VEGAS, but that's not why the cuisine is so meat and dairy centric. Vegas is as American as baseball and apple pie. We just take the American concept of over-consumption a little further than some other cities ;)

Anyway, I think the PETA border fence sign idea is funny, but many people are seriously offended by it. And I can see why. I spent a week vacation building houses for needy families in Tijuana, a very poor city right on the border. The people who are willing to risk their lives to cross the border are not the same ones referred to in these ads. They aren't the ones eating "healthy diets of rice, beans, corn, peppers, and tortillas." They're eating, drinking, and living in terrible, polluted conditions and extreme poverty. The ads are insulting to them because the ads don't really acknowledge the everyday dangers of living in extreme poverty. To people willing to cross the border, working plumbing and the chance to earn enough to buy a car or home is likely worth the risk of heart disease or cancer.

Moreover, many are offended by the idea that the PETA sign would help finance the fence. Count me in that group.

Posted by: Elaine Vigneault | August 13, 2008 08:28 PM

Hi Mike! Thanks for your response.

I agree, however for those of us who lead very busy lives AND are not natural cooks, those ingredients can be both very hard to find while travelling and take too much time.

I used to throw together (mostly vegan) sandwiches, pasta dishes or crackers and soup for work or field studies. But wheat free bread often has to be frozen, and gluten free pasta can be horrible to cook with. It makes a lousy pasta salad.

Anyway, I was not trying to dis the vegan diet, rather I was trying to say that unlike what many people are saying here, a Mexican diet can be a life saver for people like me.

Anyway, I thank you for that list because I had forgotten about a few of those items, I'll have to put them on my grocery list!!

;) Peace!

Posted by: Maya, CVT | August 14, 2008 12:19 PM

Hi Maya,

I'm going to have to pay a bit more attention to that list myself. As far as I know I'm not gluten-sensitive, but wheat does seem a bit omnipresent, and I'd like to focus on other grains as well. I have bought spelt in the past, but now I find out it's basically wheat anyway—doh!

Posted by: Mike Quinoa | August 14, 2008 05:32 PM

This idea is so cool! :)
hehe
yeah ive been vegeterian for like 4 months now. im 17 years old about to be 18 and when i was starting i thought it was going to be hard. but it's not and im feeling great i also learned a lot about nutritions and what i should eat more etc.. i eat healthier now. i never liked chicken it was hard for me to eat chicken at dinner etc..

Posted by: alicia | August 14, 2008 06:57 PM

We are all talking too much about the Mexican diet and arguing over pros and cons and less about the real factor here: meat. It's disgusting, and I've noticed some disturbing things in our family...my father eats meat all the time, and has digestive issues. I stopped eating meat and those issues went away. My mother wonders why she forgets stuff al the time. Let's see...she eats fish almost every night!!! I am the only veggie in the house and they are trying to get me to eat meat, and I won't do it. I'm healthy and still have a brain that is in decent shape. Anybody have a similar story? And remember...the issue here is meat, not Mexico or the SUPPOSEDLY Mexican food you can find in Nevada. It's all processed junk anyway.

Posted by: Kat | August 14, 2008 07:27 PM

Elaine: Thanks--I'll check out your website.

Posted by: Antigone1000 | August 14, 2008 08:02 PM

I don't think the ads are insulting but, even if they are--so what?? Diets high in animal products ARE bad for you--that's a FACT, like it or not. Animals are tortured and slaughtered by the hundreds of thousands and fed to humans--that's a FACT, like it or not. Just because people are poor, that does not excuse their eating of animals. They bear the same guilt as those who are wealthy and eat animals.

Posted by: Antigone1000 | August 14, 2008 08:06 PM

Yeah I'm mexican and I live on the U.S mexican border. Unless I make it myself theres hardly any mexican food I can eat because it's all made with lard. Most of my family critizizes me because I'm vegan. The sign is a good idea though. I think it will make people pay attention.

Posted by: Donna | August 14, 2008 08:21 PM

Hey man what's up with all these negative complaints to Mexican food. Yeah I know that Mexican food is unhealthy but so is every food. American food is probably one of the worst. Hot dogs, cheeseburgers, New York Steaks. So stop accusing Mexican food and focus on what is the real unhealthy thing here..MEAT. Oh and by the way I am proud to say that I'm a vegetarian and also Mexican.

Posted by: Cesar Gonzalez Ramirez | August 14, 2008 09:05 PM

HOLA, SOY MEXICANA
Y CREO QUE EL MENSAJE DEBE SER MAS IMPACTANTE Y DIRECTO, ES CIERTO QUE EN MI PAIS HAY TRADICIONES Y LA COMIDA CASI SIEMPRE LLEVA ALGUN TIPO DE CARNE, PERO HABEMOS GENTE SENSIBILIZADA QUE NO COMEMOS NADA QUE TENGA OJOS, ASI COMO TAMBIEN NOS PREOCUPAMOS POR LOS DERECHOS DE LOS ANIMALES.
GRACIAS

Posted by: Aida Cantu | August 14, 2008 09:07 PM

i absolutely love the add! its witty and funnyi am so glad i get these Peta Newletters!

Posted by: mia | August 14, 2008 09:57 PM

By the way, I have to kindly disagree with some of you on the consumption of mexican food. We have only been subjected to the mexican food found in the U.S. Yes, many mexican dishes can be greasy but I lived in Mexico for 6 years and ended up losing a ton of weight (20 lbs) because the food was always fresh and had less preservatives. Also, many mexicans eat their dinner in between 2pm and 4pm. Which is great for the diet. I rarely saw obese people when I lived in Mexico. Most of the people were generally small and thin. The only overweight latinos I have ever seen has been here in the U.S.. The mexican food in the U.S. is very different than the mexican food in Mexico. They don't even eat burritos in Mexico. That is more like a mexican/american dish. I made a fool of myself asking for bean burritos when i went down there. Lol

Posted by: mia | August 14, 2008 10:16 PM

I live in a spanish/english, household and my husband doesn't use lard to cook his food. He actually eats tons of rice and beans, cooked in water. I was shocked at first that he didnt eat sweets or potato chips. But in El Salvador where he is from, they eat mostly fish, fruits&veggies and rice. His favorite food is Avacados. Just remeber real Spanich food isn't Taco Bell.

BTW spending money to "build a fence" between two countries is so unreal. When so many could use the money for so much better. People are going to come to this country, NO MATTER WHAT. If not from Mexico, from Europe, Japan, where ever. Are they going to build a fence around the whole country?

Posted by: S Guevara | August 14, 2008 10:24 PM

Interesting idea, but not a great place to have the sign. Better to have it at the health department or in Mexican-American neighborhoods.

Posted by: Liz | August 14, 2008 10:51 PM

I think there's some people wrong here hehehe like Kristen and Antigone.
First of all I invite you guys to work on next summer and then go to mexico there, please check what is the real food people eat. I lived 4 years in Mexico city and believe me I ate so good. I think it depends how much you can spend. That's make sense to me why step mom's Kristen eats that.
And Antigone my friend, those are not really Mexican restaurants, people all over the world try to imitate their food but they make great messes in the attempt, like the cheese on the guacamole that never happen in Mexico.And is true beans are made just on water with a piece of onion lard is never used,lard is used sometimes in specific meals.
But go there with money to spend in good restaurants check their Cuisine which is pretty extensive.
After that we can talk about diet in US and in Mexico. Where US has the 1st place with overwieght people in the world.
So please dont do despective comments about something you dont know.
About the ad I dont get the message.

Posted by: mexie | August 15, 2008 01:13 AM

Mexicans are going to U. S. in order to get a better life. Vegetarian life is a better life. Thanks peta for help us

Posted by: Jorge | August 15, 2008 11:43 AM

You're right, Mike. In fact health experts are now warning us about things like high fructose corn syrup and wheat, which are included in almost every packaged item.

Spelt is really not so bad if it's eaten in moderation. What I worry about is GMOs (Frankenfoods) that is causing all these allergies. Companies are not forced to be honest about it.

This is relevant to our discussion, because it's not just about how the animal is treated. It's also about the honesty of those people who make our food.

Meat and many ways of raising crops can be harmful to animals and the environment; a great example is apiaries. The introduced, invasive species of honeybee from Europe has killed off many of our native bees in the U.S.

Now the invasive bee is spreading diseases to our local bees, and if the bees die off, so do we and all animals that depend on fruit. That's a lot of animals!!

;) Knowledge is power.

Posted by: Maya, CVT | August 15, 2008 12:01 PM

Thank You PETA for doing the right thing. While what you do is often unpopular by the sleeping masses, it is necessary to wake people up. Indeed, it's a lot easier to be asleep, but if people want to live extraordinary lives, they must be willing to wake up ... which also means waking up to the reality of their food, their clothing and their lifestyle choices.

I grew up in the Midwest, eating meat, potatoes and a token vegetable every day. Now, I am a vegan, buy vegan products or at least those that don't test on animals and I'll never buy fur or leather. Even for shoes!

Thank you for providing leadership and a way forward in our world. God Bless!

Posted by: Sexy Vegan Man | August 15, 2008 01:31 PM

Mexie: I have not met ONE vegan or vegetarian person of Mexican descent in Las Vegas. Not one. I have met people of Indian descent and Iranian descent here who are vegetarian. I am vegan and have not changed from that diet since moving to Las Vegas. So--despite what you say, I find it incredibly hard to believe that not one single veg* Mexican maintained their veg* diet since coming to the US. More than likely, their diets were not very good in Mexico. I don't mind blaming the US when it is at fault, but I absolutely will not blame the US for the bad eating habits of people from other countries.

Posted by: Antigone1000 | August 15, 2008 05:47 PM

LOL, I'm Mexican and I don't think mexican food is healthy at all! Tortillas are so so fattening. I'm a vegetarian (soon to be vegan) and I'm actually getting fitter so it's great that you're putting up this ad. I still don't think mexicans should cross the border though (: But I think the ad is a good idea because even if mexicans don't have healthy eating habits, they could change and go vegan.
The ad is great, the spanish version is great, it's very mexican but "vegano" is not commonly used so maybe if you used vegan they'd understand but whatever.
Great idea!

Posted by: Melanie | August 15, 2008 05:50 PM

Ok, I just commented but then I read mexie's comment and, well duh. Idk what you ate man! Mexico is 2nd place in the overweight whatever thing, and meat and chicken is used in almost every dish!

But yeah, one thing americans need to understand.
TACO BELL IS NOT MEXICAN FOOD!

Posted by: Melanie | August 15, 2008 05:53 PM

most of the mexican food has meat/dairy products :(

Posted by: roger | August 15, 2008 08:57 PM

i dont think it could bee the most unhealthy food i dont know where you guys have eat but you should know that the food in other countries that they are not the originals everything change .
we have natural vegetables and without a lot of conservatives as that they could use in north america .
Of course i agree that people who think that bad of our food should travel to mexico with a real family and enjoy and know lot more things so their experiance can let them talk , we should be aware of protecting animals and of course , about the people that we travel and live in other countries take care of our health eating all the north american style !! that it just blow us!!! so we should be proud of what nature give us!! sorry for the people that the weather in their countries dont help at all to enjoy natural food!!!

Posted by: sandra | August 15, 2008 11:40 PM

I have to say something about our diets and our eating habits. I eat a variety of traditional Mexican dishes. I have never used lard in my dishes, that's really nasty! Mexicans eat a great variety of fruits and vegetables, we use them in almost all our dishes. Yes, we eat menudo but not everyone likes that. I can't even smell the traditional dish! I think that our "pan" or pastries and tortillas is what makes us so fat and unhealthy. We eat 5-10 tortillas a day, and after dinner we have our pan con cafe (pastry bread with coffee). We know how unhealthy this is but we can't help it. Not all of us Mexicans eat lard, or pigs feet, or mix our foods the way few Mexicans do.....just letting you guys know.
Secondly, My feelings are split about the border fence? It's such a hard issue to talk about in my family. Regardless of the outcome I hope that we can all come together as one world and start eating less and less meats. Just look at the animals and appreciate their beauty. I changed my life one day when I saw a Peta add in a magazine a few months ago. I began doing research and I'm happy to say that I don't eat pork, or red meats, or chicken. I am almost a vegetarian, and that means a lot to me. I'm cooking healthier for my girls, and now they are only drinking soy milk. Posting these signs will wake up some people to realize that they need to change the way they eat. It's a great thing...........GO PETA

Posted by: Claudia | August 16, 2008 01:45 AM

well maybe mexican r not as healthy as they should but at least they have plenty of grains and beans in their diets wich is better than white bread fatty burgers milshakes n the shit the americans put in their plates day in day out, just thinking about it makes me sick!.... we have to educate people!!!

Posted by: vegvon | August 16, 2008 03:43 AM

Hi, I likewise live in the upper Midwest, and I'm vegan. Believe me, though my family is educated and therefore understands, there's a lot of hostility toward veganism around here. I also lived in AZ for 3 years, and I noticed that Mexican food is much easier to make vegan than American food. So, isn't it safe to say that, whether or not all people in Mexico eat healthy, it's easier to make Mexican food that is healthy rather than American food? I mean, drive into the "heartland" of this country and try to eat at one of our diners. They put lard in the pie crust, beef tallow in the fries (which are cooked along with the chicken anyway), bacon on the salad, and good luck finding so much as a veggie burger.

I like the sign (although I don't like the fence). Isn't PETA known for spreading the truth in unique, unexpected, and controversial ways? The sign might be more effective than we think.

Posted by: Jeremy Storly | August 16, 2008 09:41 AM

It would have been more effective to focus on the exploitation of Mexican immigrants working in slaughter houses.

Mexican food is not generally recognised as healthy.

Posted by: Simone | August 17, 2008 05:29 AM

Oh stop complaining!!!The best mexican and Vegeterian food!! Corona and guacamole...tequila anyone?

Posted by: Mikayla | August 17, 2008 09:53 AM

Ok, I don't want to be rood because PETA does a lot of good things for animals, but what the heck is this? I mean are we really talking about Mexican diets here? Does anyone care? Especially the Mexicans crossing the border? I mean lets see, we have a person or a group of people literally risking their lives to get out of their country and into America as fast as they can. They probably have very little to no money and the last thing they are worried about is whether they will have a vegan dinner or not. Not to mention that a vegan diet is not exactly cheap nowadays and these people will, for the most part, be living in poverty (in other words, they will buy the cheapest and more caloric foods because that is hte best choice in their situation). So I ask PETA, will Mexican immigrant really be thinking about their possible vegan dinner, or will they more likely and logically be thinking about whether or not they will have dinner at all, and on what side of the fence?
To me this is a really poor and sad publicity stunt by PETA, and unfortunately its working because its so bizzare.

Posted by: Katerina Koscova | August 17, 2008 11:32 AM

Hey, if one person sees the billboard and it plants a seed in that person who eventually becomes vegetarian then it was worth it.

Millions of people will see that billboard and it makes a nice contrast to the fact meat is often considered to be healthy. Even on MSN Health yesterday they referenced 'heart healthy' chicken and seafood...

Posted by: Natalie | August 17, 2008 12:02 PM

Se Vegano????

What????

Se Vegetariano

Guys I don't know who was your translator but "Se Vegano" dosen't mean anything. Most people won't understand. The right way to say it would be
Hazte Vegetariano or conviertete en vegetariano.

Please correct that otherwise the whole idea will get lost

Posted by: Jorge | August 17, 2008 02:10 PM

Actually, most Mexican's are very poor so their diet usually consists of exactly what PETA explained. Eating stuff like menudo or that food so popular in Mexican restaurants is normally reserved for special occasions or for the wealthier classes (which make up a very small portion of the Mexican population). Either way eating something like menudo was developed because native people did not want to waste the animal; it was not something done everyday. Unfortunately as Mexico is westernized their average diets get worse, people are more exposed to American foods and forget their traditions or the reasons behind why they eat what they eat. One thing's for sure, all Mexican's that I have met that have migrated have gained a lot of weight thanks to the American high caloric and sedentary lifestyle. In Mexico people rely more on public transportation and keep active lifestyles, unlike in the US where people actually have to pay and join a gym if they wish to remain healthy. My mom always gives me crap about my weight and tells me that when she was my age she was super thin, fortunately she didn't grow up in America so going to parks, playing basket ball and riding the subway were normal for her while I grew up with school cafeteria food with fried chicken and mac n cheese. Now that she immigrated though, she’s gotten very fat. Did you know 80% of mexican corn is organic, grow in traditional ways. Now however companies like Monsato are trying to poision their crops by illegally introducing genetically altered variations then later acusing farmers of stealing them and forcing them into debt and destorying their sustainable lifestlye. But that's another story.

Posted by: Angelica Ramirez | August 17, 2008 05:25 PM

The ad is totally right.
But I don't think PETA should generalize Mexican food, and saying that it is all healthy because it is not. PETA should learn their facts before posting stuff.

Posted by: Vall. | August 17, 2008 06:01 PM

As someone who experienced the hardships that come with being undocumented for eight years, I can't help but find this advertisement rather condescending. Many undocumented immigrants are likely to face abject poverty, severe marginalization, violence, exploitation, among many other things...and you're telling them that hamburgers and chicken are a menace? Why not inform on the dangers of working at a slaughterhouse? It's often noted that slaughterhouses are spaces of unabashedly severe exploitation, something I think would be more dangerous to their physical and mental health than meat consumption.

I've been Vegan for a very long time now. I fully support educating people on the benefits of healthy Veganism, even Vegetarianism, but context matters.

Posted by: Jen | August 18, 2008 05:14 PM

HI EVERY ONE, I WANT TO MAKE A FEW COMMENTS, FIRST I LIVE IN THE MEXICAN BORDER, MEXICAN SIDE, NEAR TIJUANA, THERE IS AN OLD SAY THAT SPELLS: "THEY NOT CROSS THE BORDER, THE BORDER CROSS THEM" THIS BECAUSE THE AMERICAN INVASION TO MEXICAN TERRITORY,A LONG TIME AGO, LIKE ALL PEOPLE EVER KNOWS.

THE FENCE ITS A CRIME...IN ALL FACTS.

ABOUT THE FOOD, I HAVE TO TRAVEL TO US SOME TIMES FOR MY JOB, AND I SUPPORT THE PET IDEA THAT THE US MEAL ITS SO GREASY, AND WHAT ABOUT THE BOXED EGG...ITS LIKE PLASTIC!!, ACTUALLY IM IN COLORADO'S HILTON HOTEL, AND YESTERDAY I HAD FOR BREAKFAST: CANNED FRUITS, I DONT KNOW WHAT KIND OF FRUIT THEY ARE, BECAUSE THERE ISN'T ANY FLAVOR , ALSO THE TRADITIONAL BOXED EGG, A MEAL NAMED"CHILLI-BEANS"...NOTHING COMPARED TO A REAL BEANS AND CHILE....
AND A KIND OF CEREAL THAT TASTES LIKE A DOG FOOD... ALL KIND OF CANNED MEALS IT HAVES SO MUCH CONSERVATIVES...

A REAL FACT: THE AMERICAN PEOPLE STILLS TURNED CRAZY WITH THE MEXICAN TEQUILA, THAT IS THE ONLY DISTURB THING THAT THEY MAKES WHEN THEY COME TO MEXICO.....THANKS

Posted by: MARTIN | August 18, 2008 11:55 PM

I am Mexican-American and live in a U.S./Mexico border town (El Paso, TX). I do not think that the fence is a very good place to put a sign like that. It would be better in community centers or at the local Department of Human Services, or WIC agency locations. Agencies which assist immigrants in other words.

I don't think that people are initially worried about getting fat, they are worried about finding a job and a place to live. I think the ad's cartoons might be somewhat offensive even.

I think that PETA's idea is good, but could be realized in a more effective way as far as design and location.

Posted by: Mia | August 19, 2008 04:37 AM

Jen: Hopefully, that won't be a problem once we begin enforcing immigration laws.

Posted by: Antigone1000 | August 19, 2008 09:59 AM

Hey people, we're talking about saving animals lives and improving peoples diets. The issue at hand is not whether or not there should even be a fence or the effect it has on migrating wildlife.
That being said, I think PETAs (OUR) dollars can be better spent in other ways. First of all, I'd bet that people entering the U.S are more focused on getting across the border than they are on improving their diet. Are people really going to take the time to read these messages?
Second, there is no gaurantee that our government will spend the revenue from PETA to improve the Border Patrol and Crossing dept. The money may very well be diverted to some other govermental need. Third, if these folks already have have good eating habits then the messages will be uncesessary and if their diets are poor they are not likely to change because of one poster they saw. Furthermore, if finances are a problem, they are likely going to eat the cheapest food available --fast food. I hope PETA rethinks this plan.

Posted by: julia | August 19, 2008 11:30 PM

PETA should be the first ones against the fence, in order to protect wildlife. They should lobby in congress and do what's right. Putting a fence between neighbors is just plain wrong anyway. As for the vegan signs, I'm all for it. Most Mexicans(in Mexico) eat healthy, like rice, beans, grains, and tortilas. The high fat and meat Mexican food is a problem here in the U.S. by Mexicans that can afford it. You don't see people eating tacos, burritos, and menudo everyday in Mexico.

Posted by: Miguel | August 20, 2008 04:10 PM

My boyfriend is Mexican. I practically live with him and his family. While they do include meat in some of the food they cook, it is by no means the basis for everything, it's really an afterthought. The majority of their meals are made up of rice, beans, tortillas, and vegetables. Sometimes they will add chicken, shrimp, fish, or beef, but about a third of the time, they don't. They use Mazola corn oil to cook the food in. I've been eating their food for about a year (without the meat) and I've dropped 20 pounds. So I believe that authentic Mexican food is pretty healthy. I think this sign is a great idea.

Posted by: Sarah | August 20, 2008 06:57 PM

PETA should be protesting the construction of the fence, as this will be a hugely negative impact on the wildlife in that area. I am personally offended that PETA will be spending the money I have donated to actually finance the wall that most don't want! It will be an ecological disaster and they will be contributing. The idea has left me angry at the organization. If PETA is so concerned about the diet of Mexicans maybe instead of wasting time and money on the fence, they should direct their efforts towards the American companies that are causing the rapid rise of obesity in Mexico. Mexico is now second on the list of the most obese countries in the world...second to "you know who", the US. Our food has migrated over the border and we are now infecting their cities with the fast food and crappy chain restaurants that many immigrants work at here in the US. Maybe the sign should be on the doors of the companies sending their over-processed "food" over the border, asking them to stay out of Mexico. The sign should read "You already exploit the Mexicans here, can't you leave the rest alone?" Better yet, PETA should fight for the rights of the HUMANS already living here who are treated worse than animals in factory farms, slaughterhouses, brothels, etc. The immigrants are here for work and to escape extreme poverty, not a vacation to eat hambugers and french fries.

Does PETA really think that someone who is on the verge of starvation and dehydration, from days spent traveling across a desert on foot, is really going to turn around and go back home because of a sign warning agaist a diet?? "I'm minutes away from death and I have spent my life savings to get here. My children are hungry and I can't find work at home, but Peta tells me that I might have a bad diet if I cross over. Hmmm...I think I'll go back". Come on, the idea is as ridiculous as that of putting up a wall to keep people out. I'm embarrassed by some of the comments made by people here. I always considered vegans/vegetarians to be somewhat enlightened and smarter than average bear, but this has sadly proven me wrong. Anyone for the construction of a stupid wall should be ashamed and PETA should be ashamed for its support by use of donated dollars.

Posted by: Amanda | August 21, 2008 10:35 AM

Although this blog was not really meant to be a discussion about the existence of the wall, itself, it seems to have become one, so I have to say that I, like the majority of Americans, DO want a wall between the countries. It is not fair that my friends from England, Kuwait, Jordan, and Turkey have to pay money and take the legal road to immigration while Mexicans think they do not. Immigration should be fair for everyone--no one should get special treatment.

Posted by: Antigone1000 | August 21, 2008 07:33 PM

I don't know if you guys noticed, but the poster clearly says "If the border patrol doesn't get you, the chicken and burgers will. Go vegan" So i dont know why the Mexican Food is being brought up. It shows burgers, hot dogs, and pizza,and that is not a "mexican diet".

Some of you dont know that you can subtitute A LOT of ingredients when it comes to cooking a mexican dish, not everyone cooks with lard and chicken and cow stomach!..

Posted by: LIS | August 22, 2008 12:28 PM

In the first place I want to apologize by my English and in second I do not have idea that published that announcement and as it was its true intention but I request thousand excuses if a Mexican is victim to others whatever the country where he has been born, single I mean that the fact that somebody has written that does not mean that all the Mexicans we think of that way...
It is really sad that a message can generate opinions so…. different… I believe that that type of commentaries that I have read not correspond to people who go by the life with flag of humanists, I belive that we have to respect to us first like humans, I am Mexican and it saddens me that they the same judge us to all, each human being is different independently from the country that come and as well as he has Mexican good and bad also they exist American good and bad. I was in his country as illegal and as well as some people treated me badly also were other Americans who deserve all my respect and affection to have helped to me,them shipment to all of them a great hug specially to Mr. Carl Van Pelt from Des moines Iowa that is a wonderful one to be human thank you very much

Posted by: liliana vargas | August 22, 2008 02:22 PM

Clearly the poster has nothing to do with mexican food! I have been a vegetarian for over a year now and when I go to mexican restaurants, it's usually a black bean burrito for me and not to mention chips and salsa! I go as far as to ask the waiter to make sure no meat or lard is in my meal and they always get it right!

Posted by: MeL | August 22, 2008 02:28 PM

Amanda
No human is treated as badly as animals in factory farms and slaughterhouses as you claim. Do you know of any human who was born for the sole purpose of being eaten, after a brutal imprisoned life?

Posted by: lynda downie | August 22, 2008 09:21 PM

In response to Kristen's message about all mexican cuisine being some of the most unhealthy she has ever seen i would respectfully disagree. I am Mexican and it is because of our cuisine that i found it easier to go vegan. Yes SOME Mexican people are accustomed to cooking with lard as you pointed out, but that is quickly changing. I come from a very small town in mexico where 90% of the people cook with vegetable oil. Also, soy products are HUGE in Latin American country. In fact, there was a time when the government would deliver soy and a list of recipes for the poorest communities. So i ask you to please not generalize and deem Mexican people as being "some of the most unhealthy eaters" you have ever seen. Thanks!!

ps: my father is a fabulous Mexican VEGAN CHEF!

Posted by: hilda | August 23, 2008 11:27 PM

I've always agreed with PETA on everything, your ideals are my ideals, but for this issue it'll be the first time I disagree with you guys. I believe there are wiser ways to promote veganism to Mexicans, like weightloss, health issues, etc. But this is almost silly, and a waste of time and money of this wonderful organization. As a Mexican myself, I've learned that issues such as overweight, diabetes, etc. Are more likely to get the attention of our people, than a silly warning comparing meat and milk to the border patrol. There are far more wiser and worthy ways to get the attention of people crossing the border than what you guys are suggesting. I'd love to keep admiring you PETA, please don't do silly actions.

Posted by: Julia Saenz | August 26, 2008 10:32 PM

I will like to say two things, I am not Mexican. I am not vegetarian or vegan.
I do think that no all Mexican Cuisine is bad and or bad for you. There are other options than having Menudo Stew. Not all refried beans are or have to be cooked in lard. Kristin I think you need a culinary lesson. I also think you need to be a less condescending when you speak about Mexicans. Your step mom may be Mexican put if you bother to open up a book surf a little more on the web, you'll realized that in Mexico the culinary options vary according to the region that one may live in.

Posted by: Mishu the Angry Cat | August 30, 2008 07:19 PM

primero que nada yo he vivido en mexico por muchisimos años y no creo que la comida sea tan carente de nutrimentos como la comida rapida en estados unidos
aparte uno no come todos los dias menudo o tamales hay mucha comida y aqui en mexico se acostumbra que haya variedad ensalada, arroz, frijoles y un guisado mas no quiere decir que se va uno a comer 20 raciones y si la gente prefiere no cocina con manteca en mi caso.
First of all i live in mexico and i believe that the mexican food is not unhealthy like american fast food because we have more variety like salad, rice, beens, and a stew in a meal but that dont mean that we have to eat lioke 20 porcions or so and we decide if we like to cook with lard or not
i believe this is a great idea to make concience in people we have to stop those irracional that mistreat animals

Posted by: Magnolia | October 2, 2008 12:23 PM