Latinos flock to ACC for Diez y Seis celebration

The Austin Community College District celebrated Diez y Seis at the Riverside Campus on Wednesday.

The event commemorates the date that Mexico declared its independence from Spain nearly 200 years ago.

Former State Sen. Gonzalo Barrientos hosted the event to promote knowledge of the holiday and honor Mexican history, heritage and culture.

Barrientos described ACC as a gateway to higher learning for minorities.

“Currently, there are more minorities enrolled at a community college than anywhere else,“ he said.

People from different backgrounds and lifestyles took part in the celebration, listening to guest speakers from the community and enjoying Mexican-style food catered by Casa Chapala Mexican Grill and Cantina. Lines formed as people waited for burritos, nachos and tea.

Barrientos said that having this celebration will encourage people not to allow the same oppression Mexico felt under Spain to occur again in the 21st century.

“You have to remember the past so it won’t be repeated,” said Austin resident Lisa Gonzales. 

Jesus F. De La Teja, chairman of the history department at Texas State University, gave a speech describing his experience as a Latino and the importance of remembering history, particularly Mexican history. He stressed the necessity that Latinos not forget their ancestors or their accomplishments in the fight for independence.

Mayor Pro Tem Mike Martinez said the community should see the day as more than just a holiday and recognize the historical importance of Diez y Seis.

“[The celebration] was a representation of freedom that our people fought for many years ago,” Martinez said.
 

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