On September 16th, Eaglebrook celebrated Mexican Independence Day. The celebration started with a blast, marked by the Assembly given by Ronnie E. ‘25, Iñaki O. ’25, Diego X. ‘25, and Mateo M. ‘25. These were the Sixth Form members of Los Caballeros (The Gentlemen), the Spanish-speaking affinity group. 

The Assembly was on the history of Mexican Independence and how it is celebrated. The Caballeros are led by Mr. Fay and Ms. Ramirez, along with other faculty members who participate occasionally in the group’s activities. The Caballeros do many things together; we have gone to Target and the mall, and we also make quesadillas annually to invite people into our group. 

To celebrate Mexican Independence Day this year, the Eaglebrook community enjoyed chicken taquitos, Mexican street corn, and jicama salad for lunch. A short speech about the meaning of Mexican independence was given by Santi R. ’26 before the meal. After a hearty meal, we had Pastel de tres leches before we returned to classes. The Caballeros also put Mexican candies in every student’s mailbox.  

After dinner, the Caballeros got together to reenact the Grito de Independencia at the bell overlooking the pond. Mateo M. ‘25 did the grito and reenacted the Campana de Dolores. He began with “MEXICANOS,” then proceeded with “Viva Los heroes que nos dieron patria!” Everyone then shouted, “VIVA!” He then shouted, “VIVA MORELOS, VIVA HIDAL, VIVA MOREL, VIVA JOSEFA ORTIZ DE DOMÍNG, VIVA ALLENDE, VIVA ALDAMA Y MATAMOS!” 

The Grito finished with “VIVA LA INDEPENDENCIA DE MÉXICO,” when everyone returned with a strong “VIVA.” It was a reenactment of the real Grito that the President of Mexico performs annually to celebrate Mexican Independence Day. The real Grito is held in el Zocalo, Mexico City’s central square.