Celebration and Joy in Santa Ana After Mexico’s World Cup Win

Brenda Jaimes found herself swept up in the excitement in downtown Santa Ana on Thursday night. She stood in the middle of Fourth Street, shouting, “Me! Me!” to draw attention. The celebrations followed Mexico’s 1-0 victory over South Korea in the World Cup. Residents came together, filling bars and restaurants to watch the game and then spilled onto the streets to celebrate.

Crowds chanted, “México!” and “¡Sí se puede!” Noisemakers sounded as Mexican flags were waved with pride, whether on clothing like Jaimes’ tube top or on cheek paintings. People danced on the backs of trucks, and even an Orange County Fire Authority truck flashing its sirens became part of the fun. Drivers cruised down the street, high-fiving spectators from their vehicles, which rocked like a bounce house.

Brenda Jaimes decided to make the moment more memorable. Men in green Mexico jerseys helped her as they tossed her into the air. She soared about eight feet before being caught, laughing. Similar celebrations occurred across Southern California in areas with large Latino communities, proving that Mexico’s victories in soccer bring widespread joy.

The atmosphere was a stark contrast to the previous year when fear gripped the area. Federal immigration agents had conducted raids, and National Guard presence was felt near where the celebrations now took place. Santa Ana, a city with a significant Latino population, had previously experienced tense times.

Sandra De Anda, donning a Stetson hat and Tigres soccer jersey, observed, “This here is the antithesis of the raids last year.” De Anda, involved with the Orange County Rapid Response Network, had fought against immigration actions the previous year. “They tried to take our community down, but they had no chance,” she remarked. Mexican pride was palpable during the festivities.

Brenda Jaimes echoed these sentiments. “We don’t care what Trump can say about this,” she said. “This right here is real.” The festive atmosphere was punctuated by young women being tossed into the air. Jaimes encouraged others to join the fun, while the crowd continued to celebrate.

The broader political context made Mexico’s achievements even more satisfying. Over the years, tensions have been high due to actions and comments by former President Donald Trump, who had criticized Mexican immigrants. Issues such as border security and immigration policies fueled emotions among Mexican Americans.

The support for Mexico’s soccer team is not limited to Mexican Americans alone. Many supporters like Sydney Tran, who celebrated with friends, attested to the joy the win brought. Tran, a Vietnamese resident, expressed, “It’s been rough for them. It’s been rough for all immigrants.”

The celebration persisted late into the night. Normally closing by 10 p.m., local restaurants saw long lines. Sidewalks became dance floors as music played loudly from all corners. The absence of police contrasted sharply with the previous year’s protests against ICE interventions.

While cynicism surfaced briefly regarding future World Cup matches, the night allowed Mexican Americans to enjoy a moment of freedom and happiness. Reality would return soon, but for those hours, hope was alive, and a sense of possible better days was tangible. “Sí se puede,” indeed resonated throughout.