© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

The 'Sleeping Mexican:' Honored Cultural Icon or Derogatory Stereotype?

The "Sleeping Mexican" is a famous statue of a laborer asleep against a cactus, dressed in a sarape, with his face hidden by a sombrero. Does this depiction honor a cultural past or insult it?

Copyright 2016 NPR

With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.