Music, tradition and pride filled Miller Outdoor Theatre as Houstonians celebrated Mexican Independence Day and kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month.
For many in attendance, the event was a chance to honor their roots, celebrate Mexico’s history and share their culture with the community.
“I’m coming here to celebrate the independence of Mexico,” one woman said.
“Me siento contenta de que lo hagan aquí y nos den la libertad de expresarnos como latinos, como diferentes países,” she added.
She said she was grateful to celebrate freely in Houston and express her identity alongside people from different Latin American countries.
Some attended to learn more about Mexican culture and the history behind the celebration.
“Definitely very proud to be part of Houston and the Latin community,” another attendee said. “Just very proud to be Latina during this time.”
For one Mexican American man, that pride was represented by the Mexican flag he carried.
“For me, it’s an honor because even though I was born here, I am a Mexican American because of my parents, because they came from Mexico,” he said.
He said he has attended the celebration for four years, and the flag has become part of his annual tradition.
The event included the national anthems of the United States and Mexico, mariachi performances and the traditional Grito de Dolores.
The ceremonial call of “¡Viva México!” commemorates the beginning of Mexico’s fight for independence from Spain in 1810.
More than 200 years later, the tradition continues to bring people together as Houstonians honor Mexico’s culture, history and independence.
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