Mexico Bicentennial
By Estela FuentesThe Guardsman
Hundreds gathered at Civic Center Plaza to celebrate Mexico's Independence Bicentennial on Sept. 15.
The Celebration was put together by the Consulate of Mexico, with help from the office of the mayor and sponsorship from various corporations and media outlets.
“It is important to celebrate 200 years of independence, 200 years of history” press attaché, Eva Pizano said. “We are a rich culture of good people and we've opened our arms to the world.”
The event was full of color and music. People watched quietly as the Ballet Folklorico Mexicano de Carlos Moreno flawlessly danced different regional dances from all over Mexico.
Dancers wore colorful costumes pertaining to each dance and region. All the women’s dresses were made of cotton and were long and loose-fitting, giving them the freedom to stomp around the stage. They wore different color ribbons interwoven in their hair, which was tied up.
The men wore loose pants and shirts made of white cotton with hats and at times, scarfs, depending on the region the dance they were performing came from.
“I really like the dancers” 8-year-old Luis Rios said.
The highlight of the dances was “Las Adelitas,” which was performed entirely by women sporting rifles. It was a representation of the women who fought in the Mexican Revolution.
“I think it’s great that the city is helping sponsor this event because it’s a way for us to pass down our culture to future generations.” Marco Gudiño said. “Young people today know nothing about the richness of the Mexican Culture”
Gudiño came from Oakland to partake in the event because he feels it’s the best out of all the celebrations in the Bay Area.
People also enjoyed Mexican music by Mariachi Colima, who played classical songs that reminded audience members of their home country as different images of historical figures and sights from around Mexico were projected on a large screen located on the left side of the stage.
Before performing “El Grito,” or the announcement of independence, Ambassador Carlos Félix gave Moreno an award of bicentennial recognition for his work with the ballet and for helping to represent the Mexican culture through dance.
“I want to dedicate this award to my parents, who taught me that I should always show respect for my country no matter where I am,” Moreno said as he received the award.
“El Grito” was given shortly after, followed by the national anthem of Mexico, which brought a few of the attendants to tears.
People stuck around a little longer to watch a live broadcast of the bicentennial activities in Mexico City, as well as “El Grito” performed by Mexican president Felipe Calderon.
