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September 15 – Day of the “scream” of Independence
By Jesús de Avila – September, 2008

On September 15 in Mexico we celebrate the “Scream of Dolores” or “The Scream of Independence”.
 
This scene took place for the first time in the city of Dolores, in the State of Guanajuato, headed by Priest Miguel Hidalgo, marking the beginning of the fight for Mexico’s Independence. Since then, every 15th of September all Mexicans all over the world unite to “scream” (dar el grito).
 
Some families gather at their homes to watch and listen to the official message on TV by the Mexican President, who uses the original bell Father Hidalgo used for his call to freedom; this event is transmitted from the “zocalo” (Main Square) in Mexico City.
 
Simultaneously, at the main plaza of every city in Mexico, lots of people gather by the City Hall,waiting until 11pm to “Scream” with the government representative; the act is dramatized by calling out the following phrases: "Viva Hidalgo, Viva Morelos, Vivan los héroes de la independencia, Viva México" (Long live Hidalgo, long live Morelos, long live the heroes of independence, long live Mexico) while waving the Mexican flag. This celebration has suffered some changes through the years, though the essence continues to remain the same, representing the opportunity to declare that Mexico is a free and sovereign country.
 
After the “Grito” (scream), at most places people join into a popular festivity with fireworks, including “toritos” (Little bull) carried on a running man’s back and throwing sparks all over and making people run away from danger, and “castillos” (castles), these fireworks are supported by a structure and can feature scenes including parts that spin and take off into the night sky. There are usually lots of different typical dishes and drinks available from different areas of Mexico, like: gorditas (literally fat, thicker tortillas), molotes, tacos, moles, tostadas, pozole, tamales, chalupas, buñuelos, quesadillas, atole, chocolate, ponche, tequila and pulque (a thick, fermented drink from a cactus called maguey), the night is livened by bands and mariachi bands performing popular Mexican music.
 
It is also customary for Mexican families to organize cheerful and upbeat “Mexican Fiestas”, where the celebration may include a reenactment of the best known actions that took place during the struggle for independence; that is how such significant date is commemorated.

The underlying fact behind all these celebrations is of course the authentic Mexican gratefulness for living in a privileged country, recognizing that thanks to the struggle, the effort and deliverance of thousands of men and women, today we can enjoy absolute freedom while developing to form a better Mexico.
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Viva México!

Jesús de Avila
E-mail: Editor@pvmirror.com

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