Thornton Township hosts float in parade
The group’s President Carmela Vargas said, “The parade was a success and we would like to thank Thornton Township for its participation and support.” Mexican Patriotic Club celebrated its 78th Annual Mexican Independence Day Parade of South Chicago
Grand Marshal Melissa Perez, Producer at WCIU (The U) Television Station waved to the crowd as they marched down the parade route.
Vargas, President of the organization said, “The parade was well attended and had lots of volunteers.” She also said, “She liked to thank State Senator Donne Trotter (IL 17th Senatorial District), State Representative Marcus C. Evans Jr. (IL 33rd Representative District), Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL 2nd Congressional District), and several aldermen for their support.” According to Vargas, State Senator Trotter handed out candy to the children along the parade route.
Vargas further stated, “The parade exceeded her expectation and she is looking forward to next year’s parade.”
The parade was on Sunday, September 10, 2017, some of the outstanding members of the Mexican Patriotic Club are honorary members Martin R. Castro, former U. S. Commission on Civil Rights; John Garcia WLS-TV; Stacy Baca WLS-TV; Judge David Cerda; Emma Lozano; Laura Cruz; Dr. Juan Andrade; and former Chicago Police Superintendent Matt Rodriguez.
What is Hispanic Heritage Month?
National Hispanic Heritage Month is from September 15th through October 15th of each year recognizing the contributions made and the important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States by celebrating their heritage and culture. This is the anniversary of independence for 5 countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Mexico’s Independence Day is September 16th, Chile’s Independence Day is September 18th. October 12th is “El Dia de la Raza” or “The Day of the Race” a day celebrating the many nationalities present in the history of Mexico, Central America, and South America including Native Americans such as the Mayas, Aztecs and Incas; and European nationalities such as Spanish, Portuguese, and French.