was it ever explained why as if they don't know why then why should they be punished (I am not sure how old they were). Also in america people should not have to bend over back wards to accomodate everyone. It wasn't even them involved in the battle (Franch vs Mexican). As long as they were not being anti-mexican then what is the problem? (assuming its in America)
If it was in Mexico then yes as you have to try and fit in with there culture to a certain extent, assuming they knew what it was.
Reason for edit: mistake