Mexican Independence Day at HOLA Ohio: A Gathering of Pride, Nostalgia, and Unity.

Painesville, OH – On September 14, HOLA Ohio came alive with the celebration of Mexico’s “Grito de la Independencia”, where families from our community gathered to honor their roots. In the midst of laughter, tears, and deep nostalgia, we asked attendees what it means to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day here in the United States.

Their heartfelt answers, filled with pride and emotion, reveal the true meaning of being Mexican away from home:

Olimpia:  

“It’s a great pride to have a place here in Painesville to celebrate and come together so people know that we have a community, that we can support each other and move forward.”

María Nicole:  

“I love having celebrations like this because we don’t have many friends with whom we can share these kinds of events, and there aren’t many events like this either. When my mom and family tell me there’s a celebration where I can learn more about my culture, I absolutely love it.”

Karina:  

“I feel nostalgic for not being with my family, but proud and happy to share our traditions, always carrying Mexico in my heart”.

Blanca:  

“We feel proud to be able to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day because in our Painesville community, there are many Mexicans, and this is the first time we’ve celebrated like this, in a big way.”

Rosario:  

“I’m very proud to be Mexican. We’re celebrating September 15th here at HOLA, where Verónica always represents us as Latinos. We are proud to have this space she has created to celebrate our Mexican pride. It’s sad to be far from our homeland and families, but by celebrating here, we feel closer to our birthplace.”

Fabián:  

“It’s a very special feeling because it brings you closer to your roots again, reconnecting you with Mexico and your Mexican blood. It’s beautiful because you get to share it with more people, even those who aren’t Mexican, and they learn about your customs and your food.”

This event was not just a celebration, but a reminder of the strength of our community, the beauty of our traditions, and that no matter the distance, we always carry Mexico in our hearts.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and shared their pride and love for our homeland. Long live Mexico, here and always!