Libs 124 Wikipedia Discussion

I choose to read the discussion and history tab concerning Speedy Gonzales. He is a cartoon mouse who helps his friends in many conflicts concerning the opposing Sylvester the cat. This short cartoon shows Speedy doing whatever it takes to help his friends, which often results in comedic painful ways to the cat. Though the cartoon is children friendly and arguably funny, it has encountered some controversy in the past recent years.

Many argue that this short cartoon represents Mexicans in a negative way. For example, all Speedy's friends are often lazy, sleeping, womanizing, and drinking. Opposers believe this is an attempt to stereotype Mexicans and their behavior, which was enough to almost ban the show after starting in 1999. The mice, including Speedy, will always wear shorts and sombreros, again appealing to the Mexican stereotype. The dialog between the mice is often English with some common expressions in Spanish. Also, the short cartoon will begin with Spanish music and the mice encountering a problem, thus having the need of Speedy. To the opposer's surprise, many enjoyed the show and its comedic approach. The show is still under controversy, however has never been taken off the air.

I believe the controversy tab in Wikipedia represents this matter very well in that it includes both sides to the story with the writer staying neutral. With this said, I do not think the article needs to be changed because it presents the conflict to the reader, and represents both sides in a professional way. After reading this, my view concerning the reliability of Wikipedia did not change. I still take cautions when reading Wikipedia and will often use it as a second source rather than a primary.