Every fall, I teach a course on Latino History of Orange County at Chapman University. The curriculum spans from the Portola expedition to current figures like Huntington Beach’s councilmember, Gracey Van Der Mark. Recently, we discussed the persistent anti-Mexican politics in Orange County, which often serves as a model for national trends.
Regrettably, the lecture requires updates each year due to ongoing developments. As an example, a recent slide in my presentation suggested contemplating Anaheim in 2026. This stems from a lawsuit accusing Anaheim mayor Ashleigh Aitken of derogatory remarks towards her chief of staff.
A lawyer representing Berenice Ballinas, Aitken’s chief of staff, sought mediation, alleging a pattern of workplace harassment and discrimination. The legal claim detailed incidents at notable Anaheim locations like Disneyland’s Club 33 and Angel Stadium. Most troubling were accusations that Aitken referred to Ballinas in a discriminatory manner in front of then-city attorney, Jim Vanderpool.
Aitken, a Democrat campaigning for reelection, officially denied these allegations. This incident is a part of Orange County’s extensive history of anti-Mexican political rhetoric. Past events include Proposition 187 and accusations of discouraging Mexican Americans’ progress. Former county supervisor Ronald Caspers and Newport Beach council member Dick Nichols made similarly disparaging remarks in the past.
Anaheim itself isn’t immune to such issues. Segregated public facilities persisted until the 1950s. In 1999, an attempt was made to sue Mexico over educational costs for undocumented immigrants’ children. Such attitudes are rooted in the long-standing view of Mexicans as a marginalized minority in Orange County.
The Anaheim City Council has announced an independent investigation into Ballinas’ claims. Meanwhile, Aitken admitted to having issues with alcohol and expressed disappointment over her relationship with Ballinas. Despite calls for resignation, she still found support at a recent Orange County Labor Federation event.
The Week’s Top Stories
- An ad by Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton sparked significant controversy.
- A poll showed Latino voters shifting away from Karen Bass in the L.A. mayor’s race.
- The Catalina Island helicopter crash investigation continues as the community mourns.
- Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery will rebrand under the new name Skydance.
These stories provide a glimpse into the complex dynamics at play in California’s political landscape.
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