Recognizing and honoring the 211th Anniversary of Mexico's Independence Day.

WHEREAS, Mexicans around the world annually celebrate September 16th - the day Catholic Priest and “Father of the Nation” Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave a public address calling for freedom from Spanish rule - as the nation’s Independence Day; and

WHEREAS, Father Hidalgo’s El Grito de Dolores (Cry of Dolores) became the battle cry of the Mexican War of Independence, which lasted 11 years and concluded on September 28, 1821; and

WHEREAS, Independence Day in Mexico is marked by parades, concerts, drum and marching band competitions, and special programs on national and local media outlets; and

WHEREAS, On the eve of Independence Day, the Mexican President reenacts Father Hidalgo’s cry for independence from the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City or in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, where it originally happened; and

WHEREAS, Mexicans around the world celebrate and participate in the annual festivities, including the more than 15,500 Mexicans and those of Mexican descent currently residing in the City of Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, Commemorations in Philadelphia will include a flag raising and “El Grito” ceremony on September 15th outside City Hall featuring the Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia, Carlos Obrador Garrido; and

WHEREAS, The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased to honor Mexican Independence Day and to celebrate the many contributions made by Mexican-Americans in our City and around the nation; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes and honors the 211th Anniversary of Mexico’s Independence Day.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That and Engrossed copy be presented to the Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia, further evidencing the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body.

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