Read other letters about this article
In chicano parlance, la raza is almost always in the context of its most famous useage: viva la raza unida (the united people). Most native american tribes had names for themselves that meant "the people". It is not racial exclusivity. Mr. Sugarman seems to be ironically named; piss and vinegar is more apropos. And, as always, Kate doesn't get it. Never did, never will.