El Grito

Mexicans all over the world are warming up their voices for El Grito (The Cry).

If you don’t know the story, here’s a quick history lesson: On Sept. 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo rang the bell of his parish, calling everyone to fight for Mexico’s liberty against the Spanish colonial government. This battle cry began a 10-year war for independence.

This year there are six local opportunities for spectators to observe this historic event, but there is one in particular for you to consider. Ambassador Roberto Rodriguez Hernandez, the Mexican Consul General in El Paso, will be host to the city’s official ceremony from 6 to 10 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at the San Jacinto Plaza.

Rodriguez will reenact the cry of freedom at about 7 p.m. from the balcony of the historic Cortez Building.

Mexico’s official Grito occurs at 11 p.m. on Sept. 15 in Mexico City from the balcony of the National Palace by the president of Mexico.

Learn more about the annual celebration at these sites:

• Grito de Dolores
• History of Mexico
• The History of Mexican Independence