View From Casita Colibrí

August hadn’t even come to a close when the green, white, and red colors of the Mexican flag began appearing in shops, streets, and restaurants. Why? September is el Mes de la Patria (the month of the homeland), Mexico’s month long celebration of her independence from Spain. It was eleven years of armed struggle and political battles that is said to have begun on September 16, 1810 with Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s call to arms (Grito de Dolores). It finally came to a close on September 27, 1821 when the Ejército Trigarante, also known as Ejército de las Tres Garantías (Army of Three Guarantees), the combined troops of Agustín de Iturbide and Vicente Guerrero, triumphantly marched into Mexico City.

Who is Señorita América? The answer from the Tradiciones de Oaxaca Facebook page (Google translation):

Oaxaca’s most beautiful tradition: “Señorita América and Her Chorus” 🇲🇽🌟 “Señorita América and Her Chorus” is an Oaxacan tradition—unique in all of Mexico—that fills our patriotic celebrations with color and pride.

Every September 15th, the chosen young woman has the honor of singing the Mexican National Anthem during the “Grito de Independencia” (Cry of Independence) and, the following day, leading the September 16th parade. 🌺🌼

💚🤍❤️ Dressed in white and accompanied by her chorus members in green and red—the colors of our flag—“América” requires not only an exceptional voice but also the ability to proudly represent her community.

📜 A legacy dating back to the 19th century This tradition was born to celebrate and preserve indigenous values, representing the “American woman” as a symbol of freedom and unity for all the peoples of the continent who were once conquered and later achieved their independence.

🚜 In the past, “América” would travel through the parade seated on a throne atop a wooden cart pulled by a team of oxen; today, she rides on colorful floats, yet the spirit of yesteryear remains unchanged.

🌟 For the young woman who receives this title, it is an experience etched in her heart—a source of pride for her family and a testament to her love for her country, her state, and her community.

¡Viva México! ¡Viva Oaxaca! ¡Buen provecho!