Mexico’s Grito (shout) of Independence!
New York, Sep. 15 (EFE).— By Nora Quintanilla
Mexico’s immigrant community in New York marked the country’s Independence Day on Monday with a subdued celebration in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park, reflecting both a festive spirit and growing caution amid United States immigration policies under United States President Donald Trump.
The event, organized by the Mexican Consulate, began at 4:00 pm.
Families arrived after school hours, carrying small tricolor flags sold on the streets while vendors offered tacos, churros and fruit.
Music by Selena Quintanilla, Maná, and La Sonora Santanera filled the park, alongside costumed characters and calls for “positive attitude” and “Mexican pride.”
Celebration under caution
Although the mood was cheerful, organizers and attendees acknowledged an undercurrent of anxiety.
Since Trump took office on Jan. 20, more than 92,500 Mexicans have been deported from the United States, according to official figures.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged Mexicans on Friday not to cancel Independence Day festivities but to celebrate “with caution.”
In cities such as Chicago and Los Angeles, some events were canceled due to fears of immigration raids.
In New York, the decision was to move forward, though on a smaller scale.
Last year, about 40,000 people gathered in Times Square for a high-profile celebration. This year, the consulate opted for a quieter venue away from the city center.
Security reminders
Throughout the afternoon, announcements over loudspeakers reminded attendees of safety protocols, urging them to set meeting points and alert security if separated from companions.
Vendors selling bracelets, T-shirts, and snacks mingled with groups lounging on the grass under the September sun.
“It’s a place to enjoy,” said one street vendor, unfazed by the climate of fear.
A man in a green Mexican T-shirt, who attends every year, declined to give his name. “I didn’t come here to talk about politics. I came here to dance,” he said.
Unlike previous years, Mexican officials kept a low profile. The consul declined to speak publicly, and the tone of the event remained deliberately cautious.
Despite the quieter atmosphere, many expected the celebration to grow livelier as night fell. EFE
nqs/seo
