Mexican Independence Day celebrated at California's State Capitol amid immigration fears
The State Capitol in California was illuminated in the colors of the Mexican flag Monday to celebrate Mexico's Independence Day. But despite the bright display, other aspects of the special day were toned down.Monday night's celebration of "El Grito" was scaled back by organizers amid immigration enforcement. "It's maybe much smaller, but even more special, I would say, because the people that decide to show up can celebrate. It's also about showing up about their identity, about their roots, about being proud of being Mexican," said Christian Tonatiuh González Jiménez, the Consul General of Mexico in Sacramento.During the civic ceremony, the Consul waved the Mexican flag over the balcony, a tradition that marks the beginning of Mexico's Independence Day celebrations. Despite the scaled-down event, the spirit of Mexican heritage was celebrated at the State Capitol."It's smaller but still powerful. Still powerful, because as long as there's one Mexican, there's community, there will be power, there will be pride," Jiménez said.The celebration, which lasted about an hour, included vendors selling Mexican flags and food. Many attendees expressed their support for the community and the importance of showing pride in their heritage."I came out here to represent for our people. I think right now, more than usual, it's very important to show our pride and really be here together as a community to also show numbers," said Karen Izquierdo.The Consul General noted the scaled-down event was due to fears of immigration enforcement."I understand that we're living in very interesting moments in terms that people could have fear, they could have anxiety, they could be struggling with the narratives around migration," he said.Others from different backgrounds also came to support the community."It's just it's not right. I'm just here to support," said one supporter.Another added, "I love their food and I love their outfits, and I love how they dress."Despite the smaller celebration, many came out for those who couldn't."I understand, you know, people's concerns. And I think I'm a little bit more on the end of like keep everybody safe and those that can show up," said Izquierdo. See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel
