Something’s going on down south that has some Americans very nervous. It’s the Latinization of New Orleans. In his recent HBO special, George Lopez said (and we paraphrase), “Who do you think is handling the clean-up in New Orleans after Katrina? FEMA—Find Every Mexican Available.” We thought he was using a bit of exaggeration for comic effect, but it turns out he was right on the money. Stories come into our mailbox every week about the changing face of the once Cajun and Creole dominated land as thousands of Hispanic day laborers flock to New Orleans for construction jobs while the city’s previous inhabitants have fled in search of economic stability and physical safety. This has some locals rather upset, but what do you do when you can’t bite the hand that’s feeding you? Bite the hand that’s feeding the hand that’s feeding you by going after the taco trucks that have sprung up all over town:

Officials in suburban Jefferson Parish recently banned the trucks as eyesores and health hazards. New Orleans officials said they welcome the new business, but promised to make sure the number of vehicles does not exceed the municipal limit.

“It’s better than Taco Bell. I can tell you that,” said Michael Gould, 53, who lined up at Fuentes’ truck during a recent lunch hour.

Still, the Jefferson Parish councilman who restricted the trucks characterized them as unwanted residue from the hurricane.

So, you’re calling Latinos trash? Activate Latino world domination def-con four. Ricky Martin hot pants for everyone.

Katrina Brought a Wave of Hispanics [Washington Post]
Earlier: Is Medical Spanish The New Thing In ‘New’ New Orleans?