So the Mexicans are taking the jobs of the AmericansIn "So the Mexicans are taking the jobs of the Americans", Jimmy Santiago Baca defends and puts an end to the stereotype of Mexican workers. Many Americans are unhappy with the presence of Mexicans in the workforce and believe they are eliminating jobs. However, many Americans don't realize that these Mexican workers take jobs that others don't want and are generally paid less than an American. At the beginning of the poem, Baca very sarcastically addresses the American stereotype that Mexicans take jobs from Americans. He then goes on to tell the truth, that Mexicans don't take jobs. He explains how Mexicans come to America to earn a living for their families, something they cannot get in Mexico. The poem is full of imagery and symbolism to illustrate American hypocrisy. In the first lines, Baca says: “And you, gringo, take off your ring, drop your wallet in a blanket spread on the floor and leave? » (Lines 4-6) the words "you", "gringo" (Spanish slang for white Americans), "your" imply that Baca is addressing white Americans. The tone of this poem seems very bitter and sarcastic. In the poem, Baca discusses the fact that many Americans frequently say, "The Mexicans are taking our jobs." Baca shows that in reality, they don't take jobs, they earn them and actually need them. Baca begins the poem by asking if Mexicans are really approaching Americans and demanding their jobs, stating: I heard that the Mexicans are taking away your job. Do they sneak into town at night, and while you go home with a whore, do it. They attack you, a knife to your throat, saying: I want your job? (7-11) Baca's sarcasm is very blatant in these lines, and he ...... middle of paper ...... it is clear that they are making the value that is offered to them, just to that they could improve their lives, themselves and their “dying” children. Baca asks, “Do they come on horseback with guns and say, ese gringo, give me your job? (3) The answer is no; For the most part, Mexican immigrants work jobs that many Americans don't want. Most people who cross the border do so to support their families or to have a better life. As a result, they take jobs that pay them next to nothing. He later states that Americans should actually take a broader view. Mexicans need jobs to feed and provide for their children. Baca's use of imagery and symbolism paints a picture of American hypocrisy regarding Mexicans taking away American jobs. Baca mocks Americans' racist comments to help the reader rethink the situation and show how ridiculous this misconception is.