Zocalo “Grito de la Independencia” 2011

Posted by deslava27 |

Last year was Mexico’s bicentennial an event highlighted with great fanfare and a good deal of excitement. The event itself was beautifully orchestrated and planed. This Sept. 15 will be no different.

A lot of detail went into crow control. I didn’t attend the  bicentennial mainly because life in Mexico City shuts down during the holiday.   Transportation, subway, Metro-bus all shut down and the center of Mexico the Zocalo fills with people waiting in anticipation for the Presidential Cry, or “El Grito de la Independencia ” as it is known.

Mexico has come a long way and to many there is a good deal of hope that the future of Mexico is brighter. Lately in the news, social and economic issues still plague Mexico as a whole but on a personal level there is an anticipation a better society. The crack down on the drug cartels in Mexico has also prompted anxiety over the event.

Security at the event is very tight, armed riot police and the military are present throughout the event. The amount of people who come out to the event poses many risks, and could be considered an easy target for a terrorist attack.  Yet in light of this, people still come out by the thousands to share in a holiday that is given to food, drink and most importantly family.

It’s hard to say where Mexico’s future will lie, but during the Independence, many people in light of their believes, fears, and problems come together to show their pride. The event brings Mexicans from all over the country to celebrate and reflect on the state of the country, their lives, and their spirit and give it a chance to express its character and determination by calling out with a loud and determined voice “Viva Mexico”.