The Cantonese are from a region of southeastern China once called Canton, now known as Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province. Traditionally, they were regarded as one of the 30 Han Chinese groups, but some consider them to be from the Tai groups.
The large southern city of Guangzhou, which has been continually inhabited for 2,200 years, has always been the center of Cantonese civilization. The Cantonese often migrated to other parts of the world, either as merchants or as common laborers. Today, they live in 36 countries, including Mexico.
Chinese emigration to Mexico began during the colonial era. Most arrived between the 1880s and the 1940s, especially in the early 20th century, when Mexican President Porfirio D az sought cheap labor to improve public works, such as railroads. Most of these settled in Mexico s northern states, especially in the city of Mexicali, where most of Mexico s Cantonese speakers reside. There was a backlash against the Chinese, who were beginning to set up their businesses. These businesses were beginning to prosper, which led to jealousy among the local population.
Later, Chinese immigrants settled in Mexico City, especially in the 1910s. This was ironic since Mexico was enduring a 10-year civil war between 1910-1920.
The Cantonese in Mexico are often engaged in business, whether large or small, and often run family-owned shops. Cantonese restaurants are popular in Mexico. Most of them speak Yue Chinese, which sets them apart from the Spanish-speaking majority. Language differences, as well as the suspicion among the local population that Chinese businesses engaging in business deals with those from the PRC have ulterior motives, contribute to mistrust.
Some Cantonese are non-religious or they adhere to traditional Chinese religious practices. Others are Roman Catholic or Evangelical. The latter can be a vital mission force in Latin America or Asia.
Regardless of where they live, the Cantonese people need a deeper spiritual hunger. People who own businesses typically have little time or energy to consider eternal matters.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to do mighty things in Chinese churches in Mexico.
Pray for Cantonese in Mexico to have a spiritual hunger that will lead them to Jesus Christ.
Pray for Cantonese Christians to evangelize and disciple those who are willing to find their way to the one who is the Truth.
Scripture Prayers for the Han Chinese, Cantonese in Mexico.
Operation China, Asia Harvest, Copyrighted Used with permission.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_immigration_to_Mexico
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
