In Timothy Matovina’s article, there have been parishes that has “enabled women to exercise greater leadership and authority” (“Our Lady Of Guadalupe: Patroness Of América” 11). Our Lady of Guadalupe has definitely given power to these women to fight for equal gender roles in the Church. Through Guadalupe’s blessing, Esther Rodriguez says, “Guadalupe gives you [women] dignity to go places you haven’t been before” (“Our Lady Of Guadalupe: Patroness Of América” 11). “Matrifocal” (Sager 10) also involves the Madonna where she is not only the “Mother of God” (Sager 10), but the “spiritual mother of the people” (Sager 10). Our Lady of Guadalupe cares for her people just like any mother would care for her children. No matter when a child needs …show more content…
On September 16, 1810, “Spanish officials” (“Our Lady Of Guadalupe: Patroness Of América” 9) actually shut down all festivities for the Madonna’s feast day (“Our Lady Of Guadalupe: Patroness Of América” 9). Being a worshiper of Our Lady of Guadalupe is not just done in a religious way, but in a patriotic manner as well. This was extremely evident “during the Mexican Revolution (1910-17) and its aftermath” (“Our Lady Of Guadalupe: Patroness Of América” 9), when mexican devotees, including bishops and clergy members, filled the streets with Mexican flags (“Our Lady Of Guadalupe: Patroness Of América” 9) showing their pride in their country with the voice that was given to them by Our Lady of Guadalupe. Furthermore, there is a political side to this; the Mexican immigrants are constantly protesting for “immigration reform” (Galvez, Alyshia) fighting for their U.S. citizenship. Alyshia Galvez explains that Our Lady of Guadalupe is a profound symbol in war and peace and ultimately remains to be “a powerful presence” (Galvez, Alyshia) because through this blind and faithful dedication, many immigrants find their voice to stand up and fight for their rights. The immigrants’ devotion to the Madonna protects their dignity while experiencing extreme hardship in taking care of their