Three-year-old James Esealante bounces on his father’s knee to the rhythm of Mariachi music during Bakersfield College’s Cinco de Mayo celebration.

BC’s MEChA club organized the celebration to teach students that Cinco de Mayo is more than just a day to party. It was built by the history and patriotism of Mexico. It celebrates the victory of the Battle of Puebla where General Ignacio Zaragoza led 5,000 Mestizo and Zaptec Indians to victory against the French on May 5, 1862.

“People get the idea that it is just time to drink, but there is history behind it,” said 2-year MEChA member Gustavo Arellano. “That is what we are here to tell people.”

The celebration began with student speakers who recited poetry about Mayan mythology and Aztec warriors.

“Our goal is just to demonstrate the strong Chicano presences at BC,” said Jesse Ibarra, MEChA president.

Co-adviser Jo Ann Acosta was pleased with their Cinco de Mayo festivities, but she believed if it hadn’t been for the bad weather, there would have been a lot more students at the event.

“Considering the weather, it is going really well,” Acosta said.

Through the rain and wind, the celebration continued with two Mariachi bands, one of which is from the Mariachi class at BC, taught by Nick Olmos.

The Arvin High School dance club concluded the day with several performances.

“I really liked (the celebration). It is a good experience,” said BC freshman Patty Torres. “Everyone shows their pride.”