Chuhak & Tecson continues its focus on learning more about the people we work with every day. Learn more about what makes today special – Mexican Independence Day!

As part of Chuhak & Tecson’s focus on learning more about the people we work with every day, the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Council invites everyone to celebrate:

 Mexican Independence Day!

September 16 is one of Mexico’s most important holidays. Every year, local mayors and politicians re-enact the famous Grito de Dolores.  On the night of September 15, thousands congregate at Mexico City’s Zócalo, or main square, to hear the president ring the same bell Father Miguel Hidalgo did and to recite the Grito de Dolores. The crowd roars, cheers and chants as fireworks light up the sky!

History of:

Long before 1810, Mexicans had begun to chafe under Spanish rule; Spain kept a stranglehold on the colonies, limiting trade opportunities and appointing Spaniards (as opposed to native-born Creoles) to important colonial posts. After Napoleon invaded Spain and imprisoned Ferdinand VII, Creole patriots saw their chance to claim their independence. Conspiracies quickly began to form as citizens plotted for the insurrection against Spain, its leaders, including parish priest Father Miguel Hidalgo, Royal army officer Ignacio Allende, and government official Miguel Dominguez.

On September 15, 1810, Father Miguel Hidalgo was notified the Spanish had found out about the plot and were coming for him. The morning of the 16^th, Hidalgo took to the pulpit in the town of Dolores to announce he was taking up arms against the tyrannies of the Spanish government, inviting his parishioners to join him. This famous speech became known as El Grito de Dolores or the Cry of Dolores. Despite Hidalgo and Allende’s fall in 1811, when they were captured at the Battle of Calderon Bridge by the Spanish army, Mexico was able to liberate itself in September 1821 when an agreement was reached with turncoat officer Agustin de Iturbide.

Today, most Mexicans celebrate by hanging flags and spending time with family. Parades, parties and other civic festivities are also part of the celebration.