During the early hours of Sept. 16, 1810, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang the bell of his church, calling everyone to fight for independence.
To mark the anniversary of this occasion each year, Mexicans all over the world celebrate Mexico’s independence from Spanish rule.
At NIU, El Grito is planned from 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18, at the Latino Resource Center, 515 Garden Road. All are welcome to enjoy free food provided by donations from the community. A DJ will provide music; student also are encouraged to show their best moves during an open dance competition judged by the audience.
Hosted for 10 years by Alpha Psi Lambda, the university’s largest Latin coed fraternity, the evening builds awareness in the NIU community of the Latino heritage found on campus. It also marks the beginning of Latino Heritage Month.
Andres Hueramo, president of Alpha Psi Lambda, most enjoys “going to the stores and restaurants asking for donations. Working together with my fraternity. It creates bonding time.”
“What I like best about El Grito,” added Alpha Psi Lambda member Juan Rodriguez, “is having the opportunity to showcase our roots and teach people about them.”
For more information, contact Hueramo at (708) 305-0473 or indestructible296@yahoo.com.
