UTEP’s Assistant Vice President for International Relations Arturo Barrio opened the event with the importance and history behind Mexican Independence Day. Barrio served as the host speaker for the ceremony.

Multiple speakers shared a message about Mexican Independence Day. Dorothy Moreno, a Student Engagement & Leadership Center employee, shared a message in Spanish on behalf of the student body.

UTEP Provost Dr. John Wiebe shares his thoughts and history, growth and opportunities of Mexican students on the UTEP campus.

Cónsul General of México in El Paso, Mauricio Ibarra, leads the Grito ceremony with the delivery of “El Grito de Delores,” a historical symbol representing the end of the Spanish rule in Mexico and Mexican Independence.

Attendees joined in on the ceremony by saluting to the flag of Mexico while chanting “Viva Mexico.”

During the Grito ceremony, the color guard and military band of the Instituto Tecnologico de Ciudad Juarez joined in to give a performance leading up to the “El Grito de Delores.” 

As the ceremony closed off, guests were invited to stick around and hear a performance by Leyenda Azteca, a local mariachi group. Attendees were served paletas and aguas frescas as a complimentary treat.