By Jonathan Gramling

It was the shout of freedom that emanated from Dolores, Mexico — Grito de Delores — when Father Miguel Hidalgo shouted for his parishioners to fight for freedom in 1810, the beginning the Mexican fight for Independence.

211 years later, the Grito de Delores is still heard and on September 19, it was Julián Adem, Cónsul de Mexico, who gave the cry at the 20^th Víva Méxíco Festival hosted by La Movida at Breeze Stevens Field. And in addition to the traditional observances, Dr. Sal Carranza was given the The Ohtli Award by Adem. The Ohtli Award is the highest civilian honor given by the Mexican government to individuals living outside of Mexico.

The day was also filled with traditional Mexican music and dance like the Ballet Folklorico Mexico de Carlos Y Sonia Avila, grito, jalepeño eating and other contests. There were also traditional Mexican foods and clothing for sale.

Most importantly, it was a time to share with family and friends to remember the true cost of freedom, a price that is still being paid to this day. ¡Víva Méxíco!